7 Career Paths for Data Specialists
From staying put to becoming a founder
I’ve managed and worked with a lot of data specialists. I’ve spent time talking to them about their futures and what sort of careers interest them. I’ve gone on to try many paths myself and seen others try even more. Something I’ve discovered is that most data specialists only get exposed to a narrow set of paths.
So, in this edition, I want to break down seven career paths to consider if you’re a data specialist. I’ve written it from the perspective of a “Data Scientist,” but it applies to pretty much any technical data role. It’s also not an exhaustive list. They're the seven most-common paths I've seen myself or others go through. My hope is that this expands your consideration set and gets you excited for the future. Let’s go from what I consider the least to most change in your career.
1/ Stay Put
I’m a Data Scientist today and I’d like to be…
…a Data Scientist tomorrow.
What? Wanting to stay in your current role was a path that was foreign to me at first. I've learned that it’s a very desirable option for many. Sure, you might change team or something but we’re talking no promotions, no major changes.
Who? Meeting data specialists who wanted this was an eye-opening experience for me. You're out of the “rat race.” You are content with your work and salary. You enjoy having extra time and energy to spend on other parts of your life such as family.
Pro tip? It’s worth mentioning that this isn’t always an option. Some companies expect you to work towards a promotion over time. So be mindful. If it’s something you want, you’re going to have to find a company that respects that wish and values your ongoing work.
2/ Get Promoted
I’m a Data Scientist today and I’d like to be…
…a Senior Data Scientist tomorrow.
What? The most common (and very reasonable) option I hear is to get a promotion. E.g., to go from junior up to full, up to senior, up to principle, and so on.
Who? This is a great option for folks who enjoy what they do and want to keep developing their core, technical skill set. Take what you have, and make it deeper and broader to develop more business value.
Pro tip? It’s valuable to remember that a promotion is often the most visible and clearest path ahead. Your manager might emphasise this option because it’s a common and easier path to work through. So, while it could definitely be right for you, don’t forget to consider your other options.
3/ Be More Technical
I’m a Data Scientist today and I’d like to be…
…a Software Engineer tomorrow.
What? There is a natural pull for many data specialists to step into a related technical role. For example, I’ve seen Data Scientists move to Data Engineer or ML Engineer. It’s also not uncommon to see shifts into various software engineering roles.
Who? This suits people who find tremendous joy getting technically deep in their work. Especially when it comes to coding. It’s a way to push those skills into new domains and shift your focus on expected work and customers.
Pro tip? Done right, you can usually take this path and pretty easily maintain your salary as well. This is because you can often start to mimic the role you want quite closely before making the switch.
4/ Be a Manager
I’m a Data Scientist today and I’d like to be…
…a Data Science Manager tomorrow.
What? After a certain time in data, the manager path will become ever-visible. Still, I’ve put it at number (4), after promotions and technical pivots, because it’s a very different path. It brings a new and very real responsibility: the success of others.
Who? Do you enjoy collaborating with peers, strategising projects, and providing guidance? If you like to balance data work with organising and helping others, Management might be for you.
Pro Tip? All new managers go through a shared experience: Shock. Do not underestimate the shift from technical work to people. Test your fit by finding opportunities to lead small projects or mentor juniors.
5/ Be Less Technical
I’m a Data Scientist today and I’d like to be…
…a Product Manager tomorrow.
What? Another viable path is shifting away from technical specialisation. I took on the Product Manager role. I've also seen others move into roles like Technical Program Managers.
Who? For me, and others I've known, there's been a drive to tackle a different problem in a broader business context. Like management, it also often accompanies a people-centric skill set. It's worth a think if you enjoy collaboration and creating clarity for others.
Pro Tip? This path often means a pretty significant change in the role and type of work you’ll be doing. So find ways to minimise any other change. For example, find roles in your existing company and in the data or domain you're used to already. This gives you a chance to learn a whole new skill set but lean on your existing strengths.
6/ Try Consulting
I’m a Data Scientist today and I’d like to be…
…a Consultant tomorrow.
What? Transitioning to be a consultant, particularly independent consultant/freelancer, is exciting and scary. There is a freedom that comes with it but also a safety net that disappears. I’ve seen data specialists love and hate it.
Who? I've seen it work for individuals who adapt to new environments. They know how to provide engaging and actionable recommendations. It also requires a fair amount of sales and relationship management. If you’re pragmatic, enjoy networking, and working fast across diverse teams, this could be for you!
Pro Tip? Putting the data aspect aside, consulting is a unique skill in itself. There's a lot of unexpected work such as finding and retaining clients that may challenge you. If freelance is your goal, it can help to first work with a boutique consultancy or mentor to learn the ropes.
7/ Be a Founder
I’m a Data Scientist today and I’d like to be…
…a Founder tomorrow.
What? The world of data is full of smart and driven people. So it hasn’t surprised me to see peers go on to build something of their own. Sometimes alone, sometimes with co-founders, but always with conviction.
Who? I’ve seen this appeal to data specialists who first have a strong vision and passion for a specific idea. They also have a drive to see it come to life. This takes determination to navigate the challenges and uncertainties that come with entrepreneurship.
Pro Tip? I haven't done it but I’ve seen many data specialists turned founder later return to their previous work. This shouldn’t deter you but failure is a common reality. Give it your all but don't burn bridges on your way and consider when and if you're ready to take the risk.
Give me the summary, Simon!
Alright, summary time.
A career in data can translate to many paths. I’ve already tried a few myself and seen many others push themselves to new places. In this edition we broke down seven common paths that data specialists take in the hope of inspiring you to follow your best path.
To finish up, here’s the complete list. “Today I’m a data scientist/analyst/etc and tomorrow I’d like to…”
Stay put
Get promoted
Be more technical
Be a manager
Be less technical
Try consulting
Be a founder
Whatever is right for you, go for it and good luck! Comment below or contact me if you think I can help give you a boost :)