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How to become a Data Scientist in South Africa

Builds models and extracts insights from data.

Step-by-step path

  1. STEP 1
    Education
    Degree in Stats, Maths, CS or related
    1–6 yrs
  2. STEP 2
    Entry job
    First role: Junior Data Scientist
    0–2 yrs
  3. STEP 3
    Mid-level growth
    Move into: Data Scientist
    3–6 yrs
  4. STEP 4
    Senior transition
    Reach: Senior Data Scientist
    7+ yrs

Time estimate

Total typical time to senior level
~ 7–10 years
Education degree in stats, maths, cs or related, then practical experience.

Salary growth timeline

Year 1
R38 000
/month
Year 5
R70 000
/month
Year 10
R110 000
/month

Required skills by stage

FOUNDATIONAL
  • Python / PandasHigh
  • Machine learningHigh
MID-CAREER
  • Machine learningHigh
  • SQLHigh
SENIOR
  • SQLHigh
  • Cloud ML platformsMedium

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