Data Scientists
Develop and implement a set of techniques or analytics applications to transform raw data into meaningful information using data-oriented programming languages and visualization software. Apply data mining, data modeling, natural language processing, and machine learning to extract and analyze information from large structured and unstructured datasets. Visualize, interpret, and report data findings. May create dynamic data reports.
Also called: Analytics Consultant, Applied Scientist, Data Analyst, Data Analytic Scientist, Data Analytics Scientist, Data Analytics Specialist
Median pay
$120,230
per year, U.S.
Pay range (10th–90th)
$67,240 – $199,130
People employed
262,440
Holland code
ICA
Investigative · Conventional · Artistic
Updated October 2026 · Data: O*NET 31.0 and BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
Is this career right for you?
These are the things that stand out in this job compared with other U.S. jobs (O*NET 31.0 work context). Answer honestly.
- 1.Are you happy working mostly on your own, with little contact with others?
- 2.Do you want a job with little physical risk?
- 3.Are you comfortable sitting at a desk most of the day?
- 4.Would you rather not deal with customers or the public?
- 5.Do you prefer doing your own work rather than directing others?
- 6.Do you prefer working indoors?
The hard parts
- Tight deadlines are common
Data Scientists pay by state
Highest-paying states
Annual median pay by state (48 states and DC with published data). Source: BLS OEWS May 2025.
What data scientists do
- 01Analyze, manipulate, or process large sets of data using statistical software.
- 02Create graphs, charts, or other visualizations to convey the results of data analysis using specialized software.
- 03Test, validate, and reformulate models to ensure accurate prediction of outcomes of interest.
- 04Deliver oral or written presentations of the results of mathematical modeling and data analysis to management or other end users.
- 05Recommend data-driven solutions to key stakeholders.
- 06Identify business problems or management objectives that can be addressed through data analysis.
Skills that matter most
- Mathematics
- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Learning
- Speaking
- Active Listening
Knowledge
- Mathematics
- Computers and Electronics
- English Language
- Engineering and Technology
- Education and Training
Work styles that stand out
- Dependability
- Attention to Detail
- Integrity
- Intellectual Curiosity
- Achievement Orientation
Education and first steps
O*NET has no education survey data for this job.
How people get started
- Usually needs a bachelor's degree (O*NET Job Zone 4).
- Related work experience: none.
- On-the-job training: over 1 month, up to and including 3 months.
Most common answers from O*NET 31.0 Education, Training and Experience.
Interest fit (Holland code)
O*NET occupational interest scores, scale 1–7. Take the Free Career Test to compare with your own.
Career changes
Change from data scientists
- Data Warehousing Specialists84% · group pay
- Database Architects84% · +16%
- Computer and Information Research Scientists81% · +17%
- Bioinformatics Scientists77% · group pay
- Blockchain Engineers77% · group pay
Change into data scientists
Jobs whose skills carry over best (skill match, their median pay).
- Financial Quantitative Analysts88% · $81,100
- Statistical Assistants88% · $50,330
- Data Warehousing Specialists87% · $139,500
- Social Science Research Assistants86% · $61,990
- Database Architects85% · $139,500
Majors that lead here
- Artificial Intelligence
- Information Technology
- Computer Science
- Data Modeling/Warehousing and Database Administration
- Modeling, Virtual Environments and Simulation
- Bioinformatics
- Computational Biology
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology, Other
- Mathematics, General
- Applied Mathematics, General
- Computational Mathematics
- Computational and Applied Mathematics
From the NCES CIP 2020 to SOC 2018 crosswalk.