There are three important considerations as you’re researching a career as a Data Scientist, they are:

1. What is the role?
2. What is the career path?
3. Is it lucrative?

Let’s explore these three questions and discover if this is a career roadmap that is right for you.

What is the Role of a Data Scientist?

Data Scientists turn clean, raw data into actionable insights. They accomplish this by applying statistics, machine learning and analytic approaches to solve critical business problems.

Data Scientists contribute to data mining architectures, modeling standards, reporting and data analysis methodologies. Their ability to collaborate with stakeholders to integrate big data results into existing business systems and scenarios is a critical component of their role.

What is the Career Path of a Data Scientist?

Data Scientist often start out as a Junior-level Data Scientist, then they move up the organizational chart, to either a Senior Data Scientist or a Chief Data Scientist.

To become a Data Scientist you need strong verbal and written communications skills, and the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical leaders. As a Data Scientist, you collaborate with stakeholders and make recommendations on how to use the data to better serve the organizational goals and solve problems.

Is it Lucrative Being a Data Scientist?

According to Glassdoor’s 2018 Best Jobs in America report, the median base salary of a Data Scientist is $110,000.

Considering the organizational structure of where a Data Scientist is placed, it can be a very lucrative career because they are typically mid-level management.  Data Scientist can be promoted to Senior-level Data Scientists and Chief Data Scientists.

Data Scientists are hired by organizations that work with Big Data, typically in large, enterprise organizations, as well as research and governmental institutions.

Moving Forward

Data Scientist careers are in high demand, the best way to find the right Data Scientist position that fits your career level, industry and work/life preferences is to work with the professional recruiters at Open Systems.

At Open Systems, we know how to leverage your experience and skills and can quickly find the best Data Scientist job opportunity that works for you. Contact us today to learn more.

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The best ways to advance your IT career are to add value, offer solutions, enhance your skills and network.

Add Value

Your value comes from being a reliable and top contributor. You can increase your value by volunteering for projects that focus on increasing revenue or reduce costs within your organization.

Often IT professionals are the ‘unseen’ hero. Unfortunately, this trait is not rewarded in many corporate cultures. It’s important to be seen and heard by others.

There’s a balancing act of being seen and not being boastful. One option is offering to present a project summary or outcomes assessment to the company or stakeholders on a project you participated in or led.

Focus on Solutions

IT professionals are problem solvers. Pair problems with potential solutions when addressing your team or supervisor.

Avoid being perceived as someone always talking about problems and obstacles. Try focusing on what the desired outcome of the solution is, such as better user experience, faster payment processing or increased sales.

Enhance your Skills

Technical requirements of an IT professional are always evolving. To advance your career, it’s soft skills that will get you promoted into a management role. Communication skills, business acumen, and empathy are the skills that will separate you from artificial intelligence (AI) and robotic replacement.

Enhancing your soft skills is a lifelong pursuit. Practice listening to others and then asking questions to ensure you understand the meaning, intent, and emotion of what is being said. Work to understand your entire business, not just the function of the IT department. And above all else, express empathy. People want to be surrounded by people they like and that understand them.

Networking – Especially When You Have a Job!

Professional recruiters, like Open Systems, see this scenario often. You get the job of your dreams and then you drop off the face of the earth.
Networking with your peers, mentors, and former colleagues is actually easier when you are not looking for a job.

Also, keep your LinkedIn profile updated, continue to reach out to new contacts and connect with Open Systems.

Moving Forward

Often in order to advance your IT career, you need to move onto a new company. This is when the experts at Open Systems can guide you to your next IT role. We have IT job opportunities in a variety of industries and at all career levels. Contact us today to learn more.

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The Top Signs It’s Time for A Change

 You Have More Bad Days than Good Days

If you’re having more bad days than good days, then it may be time for a change. There are many times when a professional becomes dissatisfied with their position or job responsibilities. When this occurs, most of the time the only resolution is moving on. Before moving on, however, make a list of what really makes you unhappy with your current situation. What would improve your mood and career satisfaction? By performing this intake, you will ensure that your next job will improve your happiness and will not just be a temporary placebo of being ‘something new.’

You Aren’t Being Promoted 

While the sting of being passed over for a promotion hurts, it may be a sign that you need a change. Whether the reason is based on skills or personal relationships, it is best to accept that this situation probably won’t improve and now is the time to find something new. If your skills are at the heart of the issue, participate in some training and possibly earn certifications to get your skills up-to-date. With updated skills in hand, it’s time to get your resume out and start finding a new role where the slate is clean.

A Robot May Soon Be Filling Your Chair

With the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI), many companies are automating some positions. Roles in cloud and platform technologies are especially vulnerable. For professionals who find themselves competing with AI, it may be time to invest in some new training. It is also best to do a little research and discover new roles that are in-line with your past experience and which have a bright future ahead without too many robots in the competition pool!

Moving Forward

A professional’s career is a long and varied road. At times, there are signs that a big move could increase personal happiness and professional growth. When the times comes to make your next big move, contact the experts at Open Systems. At Open Systems, we place tech professionals in all stages of their careers. Contact us today to learn more!

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Know What Jobs Are In-Demand

For tech professionals, preparation is critical. Tech workers should be aware of current market trends such as in-demand jobs and coveted skill sets. Once a tech professional knows where the market is going, they can prepare themselves to meet these future demands and set themselves apart from the competition.

The Top Tech Jobs of 2018

Top Tech Job # 1 – Business Intelligence Analyst

Range from $83,750 to $175,750

Business Intelligence (BI) is on fire. Many companies, across multiple industries, are embracing this crucial business tool. Furthermore, tech professionals who wish to be BI analysts should have knowledge of data models and experience in structured language queries such as SQL.

Top Tech Job # 2 – Data Scientist

Range $100,000 to $168,000

The demand for data scientists is due in large part to the emphasis on Artificial Intelligence. Many AI platforms and tools require an in-depth knowledge of data manipulation and data mining to operate. Tech professionals who would like to pursue data scientist positions should have excellent analytic skills and knowledge in some programming languages. Additionally, graduate-level education is also required.

Top Tech Job # 3 – Database Developer

Range $97, 750 to $175, 750

For database developers, employers are looking for experience with enterprise databases. Thus, hiring managers tend to put weight on certifications such as the Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional or the Microsoft Certified Database Administrator.

Top Tech Job # 4 – Help/Support Desk Technician

Range $32,000 to $81,500

Help desk support roles can range from very junior to senior positions. Based on the level of the help desk position, job requirements can vary from customer support to troubleshooting and problem-solving.

Top Tech Job # 5 – Network Administrator

Range $55,000 to $104,750

With such a focus on network design and an understanding of underlying security protocols, network administrators are also on a recruiter’s watch list. For this role, experience with troubleshooting and in-depth knowledge of network configurations is required. Most employers require a bachelor’s degree plus relevant certifications.

Top Tech Job # 6 – Data Security Administrator

Range $100,000 to $168,750

With businesses so influenced by security concerns, many employers and recruiters are actively looking for data security administrators. Hiring managers are looking for data security admins to have both programming and engineering experience. A bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or computer science as are security certifications.

Top Tech Job # 7 – System Administrator

Range $64,500 to $102,500

For system admins, experience with both hardware and software is necessary. Also, employers look for system admins who have excellent problems solving skills. Experience in large enterprise environments is a huge plus. Also, system admins who hold certifications are sure to stand out among their peers.

Moving Forward

Currently, the tech industry is experiencing substantial growth. Coupled with new employment models and record levels of employment, it can be a challenge to navigate the job market, especially for tech professionals. Successful tech professionals are aware of market trends and stay on top of in-demand jobs and sought-after skills. When it comes time to evaluate your professional path, its best to consult a recruiter. At Open Systems, we work with tech professionals who are looking to move their careers forward. Let us put our connections, knowledge, and expertise to work for you!

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