Data Specialist Salary in United States during 2023

Salary details

The average Data Specialist salary lies between USD 70,000 and USD 109,000 in the United States. It represents the overall compensation/gross salary amount for the working year (before deductions like social security, taxes and other contributions), not including equity/stock options or similar benefits.

Region represents the primary country of residence of an employee during the year (or residence for tax purposes). All data shown are full-time equivalent (FTE) salaries. Part-time salary information has been extrapolated to its FTE value.

Last updated: Nov. 17, 2024

Salary trend

Top 20 Job Tags for Data Specialist roles

The three most common job tag items assiciated with Data Specialist job listings are Excel, SQL and Engineering. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job tags in 2023 and the number of open jobs that where associated with them during that period:

Excel | 113 jobs SQL | 85 jobs Engineering | 70 jobs Python | 65 jobs Data management | 57 jobs Research | 54 jobs Data quality | 50 jobs Data analysis | 48 jobs Computer Science | 44 jobs Tableau | 41 jobs Power BI | 41 jobs Testing | 39 jobs Finance | 38 jobs Security | 37 jobs R | 32 jobs Data Analytics | 32 jobs ETL | 30 jobs Statistics | 29 jobs CX | 26 jobs Data visualization | 26 jobs

Top 20 Job Perks/Benefits for Data Specialist roles

The three most common job benefits and perks assiciated with Data Specialist job listings are Career development, Startup environment and Health care. Below you find a list of the 20 most occuring job perks or benefits in 2023 and the number of open jobs that where offering them during that period:

Career development | 121 jobs Startup environment | 73 jobs Health care | 68 jobs Flex hours | 63 jobs Competitive pay | 53 jobs Team events | 53 jobs Flex vacation | 49 jobs Salary bonus | 33 jobs Equity / stock options | 30 jobs Parental leave | 27 jobs Insurance | 20 jobs Medical leave | 17 jobs Transparency | 11 jobs 401(k) matching | 10 jobs Wellness | 9 jobs Gear | 8 jobs Relocation support | 8 jobs Home office stipend | 8 jobs Fitness / gym | 7 jobs Conferences | 4 jobs

Salary Composition

In the United States, the salary composition for a Data Specialist in AI/ML/Data Science typically includes a base salary, performance bonuses, and sometimes additional remuneration such as stock options or profit-sharing. The base salary is the fixed component and usually constitutes the majority of the total compensation package. Performance bonuses can vary significantly depending on the company’s policy and the individual's performance. Additional remuneration like stock options is more common in tech companies, especially startups or large tech firms, and can be a significant part of the compensation in such environments.

The composition can vary by region, with tech hubs like Silicon Valley, New York City, and Seattle often offering higher base salaries and more lucrative stock options. Industry also plays a role; for instance, finance and tech industries tend to offer higher compensation packages compared to healthcare or education. Company size can influence the salary structure as well, with larger companies often providing more comprehensive benefits and bonuses.

Steps to Increase Salary

To increase your salary from a Data Specialist position, consider the following strategies:

• Skill Enhancement: Continuously upgrade your skills in advanced data analytics, machine learning, and AI technologies. Proficiency in programming languages like Python, R, and SQL, as well as experience with data visualization tools, can make you more valuable.

• Advanced Education: Pursuing a master's degree or a Ph.D. in data science, computer science, or a related field can open up higher-paying opportunities.

• Certifications: Obtaining relevant certifications can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field, potentially leading to salary increases.

• Networking: Engage with professional networks and attend industry conferences to learn about new opportunities and trends.

• Performance and Negotiation: Consistently perform well and be prepared to negotiate your salary during performance reviews or when taking on new responsibilities.

Educational Requirements

Most Data Specialist roles in AI/ML/Data Science require at least a bachelor's degree in a related field such as computer science, data science, statistics, or mathematics. Some positions may require a master's degree, especially for more advanced roles or in competitive industries. A strong foundation in mathematics and statistics is crucial, as is proficiency in programming and data analysis.

Helpful Certifications

Several certifications can be beneficial for a Data Specialist in AI/ML/Data Science:

• Certified Analytics Professional (CAP): This certification demonstrates your ability to transform data into valuable insights.

• Google Professional Data Engineer: This certification validates your ability to design, build, and manage data processing systems.

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate: This certification is useful if you work with Microsoft Azure and want to validate your skills in applying data science techniques.

• AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty: This is ideal for those working with AWS and looking to validate their expertise in machine learning.

Experience Requirements

Typically, a Data Specialist role requires 1-3 years of experience in data analysis, data management, or a related field. Experience with data modeling, machine learning algorithms, and data visualization tools is often expected. Internships, co-op programs, or entry-level positions in data-related roles can provide the necessary experience to transition into a Data Specialist position.

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