How to become a Data Engineer

Data Engineer

A data engineer works with data; but it’s more complex than that. Working as a data engineer involves processing data and developing algorithms to make it much more useful and accessible than the raw material.

Data Engineer Courses
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Those becoming a data engineer must have great numerical skills and a keen interest in digits and systems. The job involves processing difficult data into nice, easy to process, algorithms and reports. While it is similar to data science, data engineering is more about the technology behind data and algorithms than the numbers.

If you’re wondering how to become a data engineer, you’ll need to start with strong developer skills. The person must have an interest in data, and also in the technical side of algorithms.

A degree is beneficial, but not required; the data engineer roadmap shows it is much more desirable to have relevant experience, as a lot of the learning is done on the job. For applicants with no experience, it is recommended to have personal projects that demonstrate skills in the field.

There is a high demand for data engineers – it is one of linked in’s top growing jobs, with roles growing 650% in the last 8 years. This gives people in the field a lot of job security. Data engineer’s salaries are typically very good.

What degree is most commonly held by a Data Engineer?

  • BA / M of Computer Science
  • BA / M of Information Technology
  • BA / M of Data Science
  • BA / M of Electrical and Electronics Engineering
  • BA / M of Computer Engineering

Career Transportability across Countries

Everywhere needs data engineers, and because it is a highly skilled job, if you are highly qualified, you might find yourself in good stead to be hired anywhere. International firms that use English as their first language are most likely to hire you, but if you have a second language that will be in your favour. Data analysts also get the chance to travel with their work, presenting their findings at conferences across the world.

What is the Salary of a Data Engineer?

Experience Average salary | year
AU$ UK£ US$
Junior $130,000 £68,419 $125,000
Mid-Level 1-4 Years $155,000 £71,156 $130,000
Senior 5+ Years $200,000 £79,366 $145,000

What skills are needed to become a Data Engineer?

  • SQL
  • Data Analysis
  • Python
  • Microsoft SQL Server
  • Java
  • Data Warehousing
  • Databases
  • Hadoop
  • Business Intelligence
  • Amazon Web Services (AWS)
  • Extract
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Load (ETL)
  • Transform
  • Agile Methodologies
  • Business Analysis
  • Microsoft Office
  • Data Modeling
  • JavaScript
  • Requirements Analysis
  • Python (Programming Language)
  • Apache Spark
  • Big Data
  • Tableau
  • PL/SQL
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Courses for data Engineers

A lot of courses focus on data science, but these are also relevant for data engineers. If you’re just starting out, you could try Introduction to R for Data Science or Big Data Analytics. If you’re looking to sharpen in your skills, try the Technical Report Writing for Engineers course.
  • Data to Insight: An Introduction to Data Analysis and Visualisation

    Get a hands-on introduction to data science exploring principles of statistical analysis and data visualisation

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  • Big Data: from Data to Decisions

    Get a practical insight into big data analytics and popular tools and frameworks for collecting storing and managing data

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  • Big Data: Statistical Inference and Machine Learning

    Learn how to apply selected statistical and machine learning techniques and tools to analyse big data

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  • Big Data: Mathematical Modelling

    Learn how to apply selected mathematical modelling methods to analyse big data in this free online course

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  • Big Data: Data Visualisation

    Data visualisation is vital in bridging the gap between data and decisions Discover the methods tools and processes involved

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  • Big Data: Measuring And Predicting Human Behaviour

    Join us to explore how the vast amounts of data generated today can help us understand and even predict how humans behave

    Find out more

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How to become a Data Engineer
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