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Job Seeker's Toolkit for Data Scientists

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Data Specialists and Data Scientists are two of today’s hottest job titles. Number loving, analytical, left-brainers thrive in these positions, so if this sounds like you, listen up! For this particular Toolkit, we're sharing the skills, experience, and resources needed to flourish as a Data Scientist.

Data Scientist job description:

Data Science roles can include artificial intelligence, natural language processing, machine learning, deep learning, recommendations, and speech recognition (the list goes on). Data Scientists are required to tap into their built-in algorithmic and programming disposition. Some Data Scientists may be asked to build models to improve profitability, growth, retention, and other key performance indicators (KPIs) internally and externally (for clients), while others may develop innovative customer analytics, customer story strategy, and contact optimization tools. Creating practical methods to forecast demand, understand customer preferences, simulate business outcomes, and optimize the marketing investment are other potential responsibilities.

What skills do Data Scientists need?

Data Scientists must be detail oriented and have the ability to focus in on tedious tasks for long periods of time. This includes thinking big picture, not just about plugging and chugging numbers and having a keen eye to see how metrics affect the group cross-functionally. A Data Scientist's role is extremely number heavy which requires exceptional knowledge of Excel. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, SQL, SAS, R, and/or Python may also be a  required skill.

What experience do Data Scientists need?

Data Scientists can acquire experience through education with a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Business, Statistics, Economics or Computer Science. To gain experience, it is recommended to take contract gigs anywhere you can and for entry-level roles, Sample Coordinators and Merchandise Assistants require Excel and data work which will set candidates up for a future in data science.

What are hiring managers looking for in Data Science talent?

Hiring managers are on the lookout for Data Science candidates with extensive experience in Excel, knowing how to maneuver freely in the program and utilize its shortcuts. Knowing order management software skills, like Netsuite, are often sought after as most of the job will function in a program like this. Hiring managers also look adaptability. As a Data Scientist you may have to work with different teams on numerous projects so being able to work well with others and pivot is key.

How to succeed as a Data Scientist:

The key components to success as a Data Scientist include doing research on new data entry software and educating yourself on shortcuts in your daily tools. Being able to show to management you can multi-task well and take on new projects is also important. Looking to test the waters in the data field? See our relevant job openings today! Click here to access our free Job Toolkit for everything you need to know about today’s most in-demand jobs.