Top Future-Shaping Career Options in Data Science

Until recently, Data Science primarily covered techniques that “predict” the future. However, today, professionals seeking careers in Data Science are keenly interested in knowing about future growth opportunities and career trajectories. New technologies and shifting transformation across industries are profoundly reshaping the roles and responsibilities of Data Science Professionals.  In a short span of time, data science has transformed organizational vision, making it clear that operational optimization relies on big data insights.

Evolution of Data Science: Data à  Knowledge

Today, data is ubiquitous and is annexing industry frontiers. Globally, companies are extending their capabilities to include new data types, such as pattern recognition and correlation analysis, where data plays a crucial role in problem formulation. The genesis of data science clearly marked that it is entrenched in mathematics, statistics, and computer science and has evolved significantly to produce converging factors like deeper insights, automation, and accurate predictions.

The rise and intervention of data science in every sector scale up the demand for experts in core areas like machine learning, data wrangling, and AI principles to support the niche. Nevertheless, ongoing demand and rapid innovation prove that Data Science careers are routinely considered one of the best choices. Recent analysis from job posting portals signifies that the demand for data science experts is projected to grow by 41.9% by 2031.

Additionally, a recent report presented by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals a rapid rise in data science skills will drive a 31% increase in job opportunities by 2029, making it one of the fastest-growing fields in the United States.

In a nutshell, companies are seeking innovators who can handle the existing technology smartly and interactively. Whether in tech, healthcare, finance, manufacturing, or retail domain niche expertise is an essential source of success.

Graduates with strong mathematical backgrounds, logical thinking abilities, and the capabilities to derive meaningful insights via data analysis can choose data science careers as rewarding options.

Best Career Options in Data Science

Across every sector, data and analytics are combined to enhance business efficiencies, glean deeper actionable insights, and ultimately boost profitability. Data Science is a trending tool for businesses, and professionals are leveraging its distinct methodologies to gain benefits.

Here are the Top Leading Professions in Data Science:

1.     Data Scientist is the most sought-after job occupation in the data science field. These analytical experts study the vast trove of data to produce relevant insights and patterns. Data Scientists are hired to collect, clean, and sort the unsorted data for the organization. Apart from holding a graduate degree in computer science or mathematics, data scientists must have requisite data science skills and proficiency in programming languages like R, Python, MATLAB, and SQL. In short, a data scientist needs to be technically strong to have a rewarding career just like one must have one foot in a tech-savvy niche and the other firmly planted in the business world. Compensation may vary from location to location. 

2.     Machine Learning Engineer is responsible for creating and implementing a machine learning model that can perform regression and classification. Individuals pursuing careers as ML engineers must have specialized skills and strong knowledge of programming languages. These experts are often asked to design and build models that can perform tests and monitor the performance and functionality of an application. This is not an entry-level career option, and an aspirant has to start the career journey by constructing the advance to more complex models. 

3.     Data Architect is hired primarily to design and manage the company’s data architecture. This position is ideal for aspirants who have advanced degrees or have several years of experience. Anyone seeking a career in this job role should have a solid background in application design, system development, and information management. 

Earning a professional CDSP™ certification from a reputed certification provider like USDSI® not only validates your skills but also serves as the cherry on the cake in your career journey. The program costs US$687, and the average salary of a data architect is $137,000, turning out to be profitable in terms of career and return on investment (ROI). 

4.     Decision Scientists help an organization create a failsafe strategy and make smart decisions using advanced technologies and tactics. It is the subfield of data science that deals with design thinking and behavioral science to know more about clients. Deepinder Dhingra, Head of Product and Strategy at Mu Sigma, clearly distinguishes the role of a decision scientist in his statement, “Data Scientists are hot property, but Decision Scientists are what you need to nurture.”

Final thoughts: Shape the Future with Data Science skills

As we move ahead towards the future, data science has the potential to drive the next wave of technological revolution. However, evolving technologies need continuous learning and advanced data science skills.

It is certainly true that the demand for data science professionals is high, but success comes to those who acquire continuous learning and stay informed about the latest trends. Job seekers who want to break into the data science field must learn how to devise and implement data-oriented solutions.

Perhaps, future employers are always impressed by your expertise, skill demonstration, and previous work experience. The best way to enter the huge world of big data is to acquire the right certification from the right providers.