How to become a data engineer: Skills, steps, and salary | edX

How to become a data engineer: Skills, steps, and salary insightsDiscover what a data engineer does day to day, and explore the steps you can take to start your data engineering career.Explore online data engineering courses and programsCreate an accountWhat does a data engineer do?Data engineers are essential members of any data-driven organization. They design, build, and maintain systems that enable the collection, storage, and processing of vast amounts of data. They may support business analytics or power machine learning models. A data engineer may also collaborate with data scientists and analysts to ensure data quality and accessibility.Most data engineers work in offices or remotely. However, even remote data engineers may occasionally work with on-site data systems.Key skillsInterdepartmental communicationKnowledge of various programming languagesEffective database managementData pipeline developmentCloud computingProblem-solvingData engineer job market outlookJob growth (2024-34)+4%Projected new jobs per year7,800Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), BLS OEWSStep-by-step guide to becoming a data engineerEvery person's journey to becoming a data engineer is unique. However, many data engineers earn a bachelor's degree. Completing certifications or gaining hands-on experience can also help you stand out during the job application process.Many aspiring data engineers take the following steps:Step 1Step 2Step 3Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related fieldTo become a data engineer, start by earning a bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, or a related subject. This formal education will provide the necessary theoretical and technical background knowledge needed to excel as a data engineer.Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related fieldTo become a data engineer, start by earning a bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, or a related subject. This formal education will provide the necessary theoretical and technical background knowledge needed to excel as a data engineer.Programs that can prepare you for a data engineering roleShow MoreWhat do you need to work as a data engineer?Technical skillsProficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, and/or ScalaKnowledge of SQL and NoSQLdatabase managementExperience with data warehousing technologies like Snowflake, BigQuery, and/or Azure SynapseThe ability to design efficient data models and database schemasSoft skillsAnalytical thinking: You can extract insights from complex datasets.Problem-solving: You have a knack for diagnosing and resolving data-related issues.Communication: You enjoy simplifying complex topics for non-technical stakeholders.Cross-functional collaboration: You are a team player who can work with analysts, data scientists, and business-minded colleagues.Required educationMost data engineering roles require at least a bachelor's degree in information technology or a related discipline.Hands-on experience with technical data engineering skills may outweigh your educational background.Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree.Data engineering industry insightsAs organizations increasingly rely on scalable data systems, data engineering careers are positioned to grow as well. The BLS projects that jobs for database administrators and architects will grow by 4% from 2024 to 2034. During the same period, computer and information systems managers are projected to see 15% job growth.Data engineers design and maintain systems used for analytics, AI, and key decision-making across nearly every sector. Organizations need skilled engineers to transform raw data into business intelligence insights, making this career choice exciting, relevant, and relatively future-proof.The 5 top-paying industries for data engineersThe 5 top-paying industries for data engineersIndustryAnnual median wage (May 2024)Finance and insurance$118,180Management of companies and enterprises$117,740Computer systems design and related services$116,560Information$115,940Educational services (state, local, and private)$83,780Source: BLSExplore top data engineer salaries by stateYour salary as a data engineer may vary based on your education level, professional experience, employer, and location. Use the map below to find the highest-paying states for software engineers across the U.S.:Read the map dataMedian annual data engineering salary, by stateStateMedian annual salaryEmploymentAlabama$111,330310Alaska$113,80040Arizona$130,620850Arkansas$101,000330California$159,1305,850Colorado$151,4602,140Connecticut$147,400700Delaware$146,430No data availableDistrict of Columbia$157,080800Florida$133,0402,040Georgia$135,2802,930Hawaii$149,50070Idaho$126,030350Illinois$134,4901,460Indiana$133,150670Iowa$131,370280Kansas$129,060390Kentucky$102,560510Maine$154,790250Maryland$140,7101,420Massachusetts$161,1601,720Michigan$120,8101,150Minnesota$130,420910Mississippi$90,980110Missouri$108,8201,840Montana$116,25050Nebraska$132,320590Nevada$130,360320New Jersey$143,9002,530New Mexico$120,120130New York$128,2704,180North Carolina$130,5604,060North Dakota$116,12050Ohio$129,8402,230Oklahoma$132,360730Oregon$139,660710Pennsylvania$129,0402,240Rhode Island$136,510190South Carolina$128,440730South Dakota$127,46060Tennessee$128,440680Texas$133,8006,330Utah$127,770630Washington$144,0502,490West Virginia$157,590270Wisconsin$138,930360Wyoming$62,760130Source: BLSData engineer career trackEntry-level data engineers typically spend their days building and maintaining data pipelines, managing databases, and auditing datasets. As they advance in their careers, they may also design scalable data architectures, lead teams, and help develop analytics and AI strategies.Data engineers are in high demand in fields where data drives business decisions, including technology, finance, energy, and healthcare (just to name a few).Many data engineering positions only require a bachelor's degree. However, some data engineers choose to earn their master's degree in data science, AI, or analytics to qualify for more advanced research and leadership roles.Below are some examples of data engineering roles you may have throughout your career:Early career roles (1-4 years)Junior data engineerData analyst (technical)Database developerMid career roles (5-10 years)Data engineerSenior data engineerData architectLate career roles (11-15 years)Lead data engineerPrincipal data engineerData engineering managerC-suite roles (15+ years)Chief data officer (CDO)VP of data engineeringHead of data strategyReady to advance your career?Enroll in a data engineering program on edXStand out in your fieldUse the knowledge and skills you have gained to drive impact at work and grow your career.Learn at your own paceOn your computer, tablet or phone, online courses make learning flexible to fit your busy life.Earn a valuable credentialShowcase your key skills and valuable knowledge.Frequently asked questionsWhat is a data engineering degree?A data engineering degree can be a bachelor's or master's degree in information systems, computer science, or data science. These degree programs teach the fundamentals of computing, database management, and data architecture needed to design and build complex data systems.How much does a data engineer make a year?Your earning potential as a data engineer is influenced by factors such as your employer, experience, location, and education. According to the BLS, data engineers earned a median annual salary of $135,980 in 2024.How long does it take to become a data engineer?Earning a bachelor's degree to become a data engineer usually takes four years. If you go on to pursue a master's degree, it may take 2-3 additional years to enter the field.