Entry-Level Data Analyst: What They Do + How to Get Started

As data becomes increasingly important to the daily operations of businesses around the world, so too does the work of data analysts capable of handling it. And, yes, there is data to back up that claim. According to research from the World Economic Forum, the number of data analysis jobs is projected to grow by 30 to 35 percent through 2027 [1]. 

It’s a good time to start out as a data analyst. Below, you'll learn more about what you can expect from an entry-level data analyst position and how to get started.

Entry-level data analyst jobs: Responsibilities and skills

Analyzing data and transforming it into something businesses can use to their benefit involves many tasks and skills that more experienced professionals perform and use. Explore some of your everyday responsibilities as an entry-level data analyst working at the direction of senior-level analysts. Then, find out more about the skills you'll need for the job. 

What does an entry-level data analyst do?

Your exact duties may vary depending on the needs of the company for which you work. However, they'll likely include tasks like data collection, data cleaning, and data analysis. Some of these everyday responsibilities may include: 

• Data collection: As a data analyst, you'll likely be tasked with collecting data yourself, such as by conducting surveys and purchasing appropriate data collections.

• Data cleaning: After collecting data, you'll clean it to remove errors or duplicated data that might skew results.

• Data modeling: Once your dataset is clean, you'll then structure it to prepare it for analysis.

• Data analysis: In your analysis, you'll interpret the data to find trends or patterns and produce actionable insights to help organizations achieve their goals.

• Data visualization: Another essential activity will be turning the insights you gain from your analysis into visualizations that can make abstract findings more understandable to stakeholders.

Read more: What Does a Data Analyst Do?

What skills should an entry-level data analyst have? 

Mastering the necessary technical and workplace skills can help you get an entry-level data analyst job. Some common skills to consider building as you prepare for this position include: 

• Knowledge of programming languages, such as Python or R 

• Experience with database tools, including Microsoft Excel and SQL

• Experience with data visualization tools like Tableau, Jupyter Notebook, and Excel

• Knowledge of mathematics and statistics

• Communication and storytelling skills 

• Strong collaboration and teamwork abilities  

Read more: What Does a Data Analyst Do? Career Guide

Data analyst job outlook 

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects a bright outlook for growth in entry-level data analyst jobs between 2023 and 2033. Projected job growth for data scientists (the job category that includes data analysts) is 36 percent, translating to 20,800 new job openings each year throughout the decade [2]. 

Data analyst salary 

The high demand for data analysts means the position can command a higher-than-average salary.

According to Glassdoor, entry-level data analysts earn an average annual salary of $55,072 as of September 2024 [3]. As you gain more experience, you can expect to earn an even higher wage. Glassdoor estimates the average salary for data analysts with 10 to 14 years of experience is $86,345 [4] and puts the average salary for senior data analysts at $118,228 [5]. 

How to get an entry-level data analyst job

How can you get your first entry-level data analyst job? Good news—you have more than one way to start your career.

The steps below offer a common pathway you can take as you build a successful career in data analytics.

1. Earn a degree or credential. 

According to the US BLS, the typical entry-level degree for data analysts is a bachelor's degree, but some employers might prefer candidates with a master's degree. Popular areas of study include computer science, business, mathematics, and statistics [6].

Other pathways that may help you enter this field include getting an entry-level data analyst position without a college degree by attending a boot camp, transitioning from another industry, and obtaining a Professional Certificate from an industry leader in technology like the Meta Data Analyst Professional Certificate. You can typically complete Meta's self-paced program in just five months or less to prepare for an entry-level role.

Read more: How to Become a Data Analyst (with or Without a Degree)

Can you get an entry-level data analyst job with no experience?

It's possible to break into the field without any formal experience. Completing internships, working with a mentor, building your network, and learning how businesses use data to improve operations can help you get your first job. It can also be helpful to create a portfolio with some of your data-related projects and remain updated on all the latest trends in the field.

2. Hone your skills.

Your combined technical and workplace skills form the cornerstone of your data analytics job. Stay up-to-date and well-trained in areas like programming, data visualization, database management, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking. 

3. Build a portfolio.

A portfolio lets you showcase your skill set and accomplishments to employers, particularly when you need more work experience. Your projects demonstrate your ability to gather, clean, model, analyze, and present data with insightful visuals. 

Consider uploading your projects to Github or a similar software development platform so potential employers can easily view them. 

Read more: How to Build a Data Analyst Portfolio: Tips for Success

4. Gain experience.

You can demonstrate your preparedness for an entry-level position by gaining experience through an internship or volunteer opportunity. Such opportunities allow you to gain relevant work and industry expertise and network with practicing professionals who can provide essential career tips and insights. 

5. Apply.

To apply for a data analyst position, make sure you have compiled all your application materials—including your resume, cover letter, and portfolio—and use resume keywords to help recruiters read your application. 

You can find data analyst entry-level jobs online by searching for them on popular job posting sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter. 

Read more: 15 Data Analyst Interview Questions and Answers

Start your data analyst career on Coursera

Building foundational data analyst knowledge and skills can help prepare you for an entry-level position. Whether you’re brand new to data analysis or already have some training, you might consider taking an online course to prepare you for your first data analyst role.

You can gain in-demand data cleaning, analysis, and visualization skills with Google’s Data Analytics Professional Certificate, which can help you go from a beginner to job-ready in less than six months.

You might also consider IBM's Data Science Professional Certificate, where you'll focus on big data, machine learning, deep learning, and data mining.