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Data Analyst at a glance
- Main tasks
- Collect data from primary or secondary sources and maintain databases/data systems, identify, analyze, and interpret trends or patterns in complex data sets and develop and implement databases, data analytics, and other strategies that optimize statistical efficiency and quality
- Typical entry
- Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Information Management, Economics, or related field
- Average pay
- $86,725 per year in the U.S.
What does a Data Analyst do?
A Data Analyst is a professional who specializes in collecting, processing, and performing statistical analyses on large datasets. They help organizations make more informed decisions by identifying trends, testing hypotheses, and evaluating the effectiveness of business strategies.
Data Analyst duties and responsibilities
Typical tasks in a Data Analyst job:
- Collect data from primary or secondary sources and maintain databases/data systems
- Identify, analyze, and interpret trends or patterns in complex data sets
- Develop and implement databases, data analytics, and other strategies that optimize statistical efficiency and quality
- Use statistical tools to interpret data sets, focusing on trends and patterns
- Create reports of findings, illustrate data with graphs, and translate complex results into clear texts
- Work with management to prioritize business and information needs
Qualifications and skills
Education & qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Information Management, Economics, or related field
- Experience with databases (SQL etc.), programming (XML, Javascript, ETL frameworks), and statistical packages (Excel, SPSS, SAS etc.)
- Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy
- Adept at queries, report writing, and presenting findings
- Ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks and projects
Skills & requirements
- Advanced ability to manipulate and analyze large datasets
- Willingness to keep up with industry trends and training in advanced data analysis techniques
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail
- Strong critical thinking skills to evaluate complex data
- Ability to work effectively within a team setting
Data Analyst salary 2026
The average salary for a Data Analyst in the U.S. is about $86,725 per year. Pay depends on experience, employer, industry and region:
- Entry level0-2 years $65,044
- Mid level3-5 years $78,053
- Experienced6-10 years $86,725
- Senior11+ years $95,398
- Top earners20+ years $108,406
Based on public data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Payscale. Career-level figures are estimates derived from the national average.
Data Analyst career path
Data Analysts can advance to Senior Data Analyst roles, become Data Scientists, or specialize in particular data analytics areas such as business intelligence, data engineering, or big data.
Work environment
Data Analysts typically work in an office environment and may spend long hours sitting and using office equipment and computers. They are often part of a larger team but need to be able to work independently.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Data Analyst do?
A Data Analyst is a professional who specializes in collecting, processing, and performing statistical analyses on large datasets. They help organizations make more informed decisions by identifying trends, testing hypotheses, and evaluating the effectiveness of business strategies.
How much does a Data Analyst earn?
The average salary for a Data Analyst in the U.S. is about $86,725 per year. Entry-level pay starts around $65,044, experienced professionals can reach $108,406 or more, depending on employer, region and experience.
What qualifications do you need to become a Data Analyst?
Typical requirements are: bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Information Management, Economics, or related field, experience with databases (SQL etc.), programming (XML, Javascript, ETL frameworks), and statistical packages (Excel, SPSS, SAS etc.), strong analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy and adept at queries, report writing, and presenting findings.
What is the career path for a Data Analyst?
Data Analysts can advance to Senior Data Analyst roles, become Data Scientists, or specialize in particular data analytics areas such as business intelligence, data engineering, or big data.
Where do Data Analysts work?
Data Analysts typically work in an office environment and may spend long hours sitting and using office equipment and computers. They are often part of a larger team but need to be able to work independently.
About this profile: This Data Analyst job description is based on public sources such as the BLS and Payscale and was structured with the help of AI. It is a general orientation; duties, requirements and pay differ by employer, country and experience.
