What is the career path for a data analyst?

The career path for a data analyst includes jobs as an analyst (I and II), a senior analyst, and a data scientist.

A data analyst is a professional who gathers and evaluates data in order to turn this information into actionable strategies that can improve a company's efficiency, overall performance, and profitability.

To get a job as an entry-level analyst (I and II) you need a bachelor's degree in computer science, math, statistics, or another related field. Some also choose to get a more advanced degree in one of these areas, or attend training courses for professional development.

Many companies also prefer candidates to have some level of professional experience before applying for these roles. Internship programs represent the best opportunity to gain an adequate amount of experience. While data science bootcamps also represent another valid form of education and experience.

In addition to degrees and training, the analyst role also benefits from certain certifications, including:

• MongoDB. This certification exhibits expansive knowledge and expertise of advanced databases. MongoDB University offers certifications like the MongoDB Certified Developer and MongoDB Certified Database Administrator certifications.

• Cloudera Certified Associate (CCA) Data Analyst. This certification properly prepares professionals to process and transform information utilizing Hadoop software to do so. Cloudera provides an opportunity for obtaining this certification.

• Certified Analytics Professional (CAP). This certification gives data analysts advanced knowledge and strategies for turning data into insights. Companies seek candidates with this certification when they are looking to hire premier analytics professionals.

These certifications are not only helpful to obtaining a position as an analyst (I and II), but also beneficial on the career path of then becoming a senior analyst and a data scientist.

Senior analysts typically work in the analyst (I and II) role for a number of years gaining the adequate experience to become a senior analyst, and then possibly a data scientist.

Additional certifications helpful to becoming a senior analyst and data scientist include:

• EMC Data Scientist Associate (EMCDSA)

• Certification of Professional Achievement in Data Sciences

• MapR Certified Data Analyst

There are many skills that are needed to become a data analyst and these are crucial for all stages of the career path. Some of the most important skills needed to be a data analyst include:

• Technical skills. Data analysts often work with many different kinds of technology. They must be adept in knowledge and skill to properly utilize this technology to do things like interpret data, organize and manage databases, and keep record of data sets. They also must be versed in programming languages, such as Python and SQL.

• Analytical skills. This one is rather obvious, and it's not hard to understand why it is an essential skill set. Data analysts must be able to correctly identify, gather, organize, and manage data. They also must be able to present data in a method that is easy to understand.

• Teamwork skills. Data analysts often work within large or small teams or entire departments at an organization. Along with their analyst colleagues they conceive and present data interpretations that can then be turned into actionable strategies for their company. They often have to collaborate with many team members, so teamwork skills are a must.

• Math skills and abilities. Data analysts employ several different types of mathematics to calculate, evaluate, and interpret data. Math skills assist them in figuring out what their findings mean and how they affect their company. Strategies and solutions can then also be derived from the math work that is performed.

• Leadership skills. Leadership skills are crucial for data analysts, especially ones that want to work their way up the career path ladder into positions like senior analyst, data scientist, or even Chief Technology Officer (CTO). They often must lead data-related projects and supervise other analysts in their work and contributions. They need the ability to make confident and decisive decisions that others will comply with. Professionalism is also required, as oftentimes analysts leading a data project will have to present their findings to stakeholders.

• Problem-solving skills. This is a core skill of any analyst position, as companies hire data analytics to analyze and interpret data with the overall goal of finding solutions, strategies, and techniques for various issues and problems. Often companies want data analysts to become aware of potential issues before they truly arise, so problem prevention is also key. Data analysts must use keen problem-solving abilities to come up with complete and actionable solutions based on their data findings.

All positions on this career path (analyst, senior analyst, and data scientist) are in high demand in many industries. The tech sector is possibly the most relevant and competitive, however, their demand crosses many industries, including finance, retail, and entertainment.

To hit the pinnacle of this career path as a Chief Technology Officer (CTO), an analyst must have a long career resulting in a wealth of experience and knowledge. This goal can take a decade or even much longer to obtain.