Entry-level data science jobs often include roles like data analyst, junior data scientist, and machine learning intern.
Strong analytical, Python, and SQL skills open doors to beginner data scientist roles.
Internships, certifications, and portfolio projects help when starting a career in data science.
Most organizations today generate large volumes of data. However, this data is only valuable when it is properly analyzed and turned into actionable insights that can help businesses grow. As a result, the demand for professionals skilled in collecting, evaluating, and interpreting raw data has increased dramatically.
The data science sector offers several job roles that are beginner-friendly and can help freshers kickstart their journey. This article lists some of the best entry-level data science jobs that can lead to a sustainable career in the tech field.
Here’s a quick look at some of the best data science career opportunities:
A data analyst position is among the most common data science entry-level jobs that emphasize data interpretation and report preparation to help companies make smarter choices. Data analysts must be knowledgeable in Excel, SQL, and visualization tools such as Power BI or Tableau.
Responsibilities: Dashboard design, dataset sorting, and trend spotting.
Necessary Skills: Basic Python, data visualization, SQL, and Excel.
Why This Role Matters: It provides insight into both business and technical decision-making.
Freshers who are starting in the data science field can opt for a junior data scientist position. This role typically involves supporting senior data scientists in model development, dataset evaluation, and experimentation with algorithms.
Responsibilities: Cleaning data, assisting in projects related to machine learning, and exploratory data analysis.
Necessary Skills: Statistics, R, Python, and fundamental machine learning concepts.
Why This Role Matters: Hands-on exposure to predictive modelling and practical projects.
The BI analyst job role can be an accessible entry point for beginners in search of sustainable data science career opportunities. Unlike traditional data analysts, BI analysts mostly emphasize visualization and communicating insights to investors and other stakeholders.
Responsibilities: Dashboard design, summarization of KPI, and making reports manageable for non-technical teams.
Necessary Skills: Power BI, Tableau, or SQL with strong presentation abilities.
Why This Role Matters: It helps combine business tactics with technical expertise.
Also read: What is Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Certificate?
An internship in machine learning is one of the best roles for students or graduates to start their career in data science. These positions allow freshers to gain hands-on experience in model building within an established environment.
Responsibilities: Dataset cleaning, experimenting with algorithms, and supporting ML engineers.
Necessary Skills: Problem-solving skills with proficiency in Python, TensorFlow, or PyTorch basics, and statistics.
Why This Role Matters: Early exposure to machine learning and AI workflows.
While entry-level data engineering roles can be technical, they are quickly becoming a part of beginner data scientist roles. Data engineers focus on developing and maintaining pipelines, letting analysts and scientists access data with ease.
Responsibilities: Database handling, planning ETL pipelines, and boosting data storage.
Necessary Skills: Cloud platforms like Azure, AWS, and GCP with Python and SQL.
Why This Role Matters: It lays the groundwork in the backend systems that underpin all data science work.
Also read: Kickstart Your Data Science Career: Stipend, Qualifications, and Top Companies to Target.
Landing an entry-level data scientist role may seem challenging, but many data science career opportunities are available for beginners. Being equipped with skills to handle tools like Python, SQL, and visualization, as well as creating a strong portfolio of projects, can improve your chances of getting hired.
Apart from technical expertise, employers also look for critical thinking and problem-solving skills. From data analyst to specialized positions like BI analysts and data engineers, every opportunity lets newcomers develop critical abilities for future growth.