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What is a data modeler and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025
4 min read
Quoted Expert
Dr. Mark Fridline Ph.D.
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Data modelers are systems analysts that design computer databases used for translating complex business data into useful computer systems. They work with data architects to develop databases that meet organizational needs. They make use of conceptual, logical, and physical data models. These models are designed to optimize efficiency and outputs. Besides that, they find areas where data can be used to improve business activities. Additionally, they create and maintain data maps and relevant diagrams for data domains and systems.

To become a data modeler, you need a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related discipline. You must have prior experience in a similar role. Candidates must possess communication, interpersonal, multitasking, and problem-solving skills. You must be able to use data analysis and modeling tools. Likewise, you must be conversant with SQL Server, Oracle, and Microsoft Office, among others. Data modelers earn an average salary of $92,328 per annum. This varies between $67,000 and $127,000.

What general advice would you give to a Data Modeler?

Dr. Mark Fridline Ph.D.Dr. Mark Fridline Ph.D. LinkedIn Profile

Associate Chair, University of Akron

There are tremendous prospects that follow a degree in Statistics. The career path, and foremost, you have chosen has many possible opportunities in many possible fields. The skills you have learned in this major can be applied to almost any industry (business, medical, government, engineering, sports, etc.), so take some time to figure out what industry interests you the most. This is where I would start my job hunting efforts.
ScoreData ModelerUS Average
Salary
7.6

Avg. Salary $100,495

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level
4.4

Growth Rate 9%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity
2.6
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.53%

Asian 28.65%

Black or African American 6.16%

Hispanic or Latino 8.08%

Unknown 5.05%

White 51.53%

Gender

female 28.99%

male 71.01%

Age - 46
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 46
Stress Level
4.4

Stress level is moderate

7.1 - high

Complexity Level
9.2

Complexity Level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance
8.1

Work Life balance is good

6.4 - fair

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Data Modeler career paths

Key steps to become a data modeler

  1. Explore data modeler education requirements

    Most common data modeler degrees

    Bachelor's

    69.7 %

    Master's

    25.1 %

    Diploma

    1.9 %
  2. Start to develop specific data modeler skills

    SkillsPercentages
    ETL6.09%
    Data Analysis5.96%
    Data Architecture5.92%
    Physical Data Models5.41%
    Data Warehouse4.85%
  3. Complete relevant data modeler training and internships

    Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New data modelers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a data modeler based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real data modeler resumes.
  4. Research data modeler duties and responsibilities

    • Lead efforts to analyze data for source/target mappings, create T-SQL scripts for data processing.
    • Involve in data governance processes relate to data quality and information management, managing the metadata repository etc.
    • Accomplish at designing dashboards and data summaries for technical and non-technical audiences and facilitating implementation of business strategies and missions.
    • Design the data marts in dimensional data modeling using star and snowflake schemas.
  5. Prepare your data modeler resume

    When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your data modeler resume.

    You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a data modeler resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

    Choose From 10+ Customizable Data Modeler Resume templates

    Build a professional Data Modeler resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Data Modeler resume.
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    Data Modeler Resume
    Data Modeler Resume
  6. Apply for data modeler jobs

    Now it's time to start searching for a data modeler job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

    1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
    2. Consult your professional network
    3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
    4. Watch out for job scams

How Did You Land Your First Data Modeler Job

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Average data modeler salary

The average Data Modeler salary in the United States is $100,495 per year or $48 per hour. Data modeler salaries range between $73,000 and $138,000 per year.

Average Data Modeler Salary
$100,495 Yearly
$48.31 hourly

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Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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