Chicago, known as the Windy City, is a hub for various industries, including data science and analytics. The city is home to numerous companies, startups, and organizations that rely heavily on data to drive their businesses forward. As a result, there is a high demand for professionals with expertise in data analysis, machine learning, and data visualization. In this article, we will explore five Chicago data jobs that are in high demand, along with their responsibilities, required skills, and average salaries.
Key Points
- Data Scientist: $118,000 - $170,000 per year, responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting complex data
- Data Analyst: $65,000 - $110,000 per year, focused on analyzing and interpreting data to inform business decisions
- Data Engineer: $110,000 - $160,000 per year, responsible for designing, building, and maintaining large-scale data systems
- Business Intelligence Developer: $90,000 - $140,000 per year, creates data visualizations and reports to help organizations make data-driven decisions
- Quantitative Analyst: $80,000 - $150,000 per year, uses mathematical models and statistical techniques to analyze and interpret data
Data Scientist

A Data Scientist is a highly sought-after professional in Chicago, with an average salary range of 118,000 to 170,000 per year. The primary responsibility of a Data Scientist is to collect, analyze, and interpret complex data to gain insights and inform business decisions. They use various tools and techniques, such as machine learning algorithms, statistical modeling, and data visualization, to extract insights from large datasets. Some of the key skills required for this role include proficiency in programming languages like Python, R, or SQL, experience with data visualization tools like Tableau or Power BI, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Responsibilities of a Data Scientist
Some of the key responsibilities of a Data Scientist include:
- Collecting and analyzing large datasets to identify trends and patterns
- Developing and implementing machine learning models to predict outcomes and inform business decisions
- Creating data visualizations and reports to communicate insights to stakeholders
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate data insights into business strategies
Data Analyst

A Data Analyst is another in-demand role in Chicago, with an average salary range of 65,000 to 110,000 per year. The primary responsibility of a Data Analyst is to analyze and interpret data to inform business decisions. They use various tools and techniques, such as statistical modeling, data visualization, and data mining, to extract insights from datasets. Some of the key skills required for this role include proficiency in programming languages like Excel, SQL, or Python, experience with data visualization tools like Tableau or Power BI, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Responsibilities of a Data Analyst
Some of the key responsibilities of a Data Analyst include:
- Analyzing and interpreting data to identify trends and patterns
- Creating data visualizations and reports to communicate insights to stakeholders
- Developing and maintaining databases to store and manage data
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate data insights into business strategies
Data Engineer
A Data Engineer is a highly sought-after professional in Chicago, with an average salary range of 110,000 to 160,000 per year. The primary responsibility of a Data Engineer is to design, build, and maintain large-scale data systems to store and manage data. They use various tools and techniques, such as Hadoop, Spark, and NoSQL databases, to build and maintain data pipelines. Some of the key skills required for this role include proficiency in programming languages like Java, Python, or Scala, experience with big data technologies like Hadoop or Spark, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Responsibilities of a Data Engineer
Some of the key responsibilities of a Data Engineer include:
- Designing and building large-scale data systems to store and manage data
- Developing and maintaining data pipelines to extract, transform, and load data
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate data insights into business strategies
- Ensuring data quality and integrity by implementing data validation and testing protocols
Business Intelligence Developer
A Business Intelligence Developer is a highly sought-after professional in Chicago, with an average salary range of 90,000 to 140,000 per year. The primary responsibility of a Business Intelligence Developer is to create data visualizations and reports to help organizations make data-driven decisions. They use various tools and techniques, such as SQL, Tableau, and Power BI, to extract insights from datasets and create interactive dashboards. Some of the key skills required for this role include proficiency in programming languages like SQL, experience with data visualization tools like Tableau or Power BI, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Responsibilities of a Business Intelligence Developer
Some of the key responsibilities of a Business Intelligence Developer include:
- Creating data visualizations and reports to communicate insights to stakeholders
- Developing and maintaining databases to store and manage data
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate data insights into business strategies
- Ensuring data quality and integrity by implementing data validation and testing protocols
Quantitative Analyst

A Quantitative Analyst is a highly sought-after professional in Chicago, with an average salary range of 80,000 to 150,000 per year. The primary responsibility of a Quantitative Analyst is to use mathematical models and statistical techniques to analyze and interpret data. They use various tools and techniques, such as statistical modeling, machine learning, and data visualization, to extract insights from datasets and inform business decisions. Some of the key skills required for this role include proficiency in programming languages like Python, R, or MATLAB, experience with statistical modeling and machine learning algorithms, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Responsibilities of a Quantitative Analyst
Some of the key responsibilities of a Quantitative Analyst include:
- Developing and implementing mathematical models to analyze and interpret data
- Creating data visualizations and reports to communicate insights to stakeholders
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate data insights into business strategies
- Ensuring data quality and integrity by implementing data validation and testing protocols
Job Title | Average Salary Range |
---|---|
Data Scientist | $118,000 - $170,000 |
Data Analyst | $65,000 - $110,000 |
Data Engineer | $110,000 - $160,000 |
Business Intelligence Developer | $90,000 - $140,000 |
Quantitative Analyst | $80,000 - $150,000 |

What are the most in-demand data jobs in Chicago?
+The most in-demand data jobs in Chicago include Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Data Engineer, Business Intelligence Developer, and Quantitative Analyst.
What are the average salary ranges for data jobs in Chicago?
+The average salary ranges for data jobs in Chicago vary from 65,000 to 170,000 per year, depending on the job title and level of experience.
What skills are required for data jobs in Chicago?
+The required skills for data jobs in Chicago include proficiency in programming languages like Python, R, or SQL, experience with data visualization tools like Tableau or Power BI, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
How can I get started in a data career in Chicago?
+To get started in a data career in Chicago, you can consider taking courses or earning certifications in data science, data analysis, or related fields. You can also network with professionals in the industry and join online communities to learn more about job opportunities and required skills.
What are the future prospects for data jobs in Chicago?
+The future prospects for data jobs in Chicago are promising, with the demand for data professionals expected to grow in the coming years. As organizations continue to rely on data to drive business decisions, the need for skilled data professionals will increase, making it an exciting and rewarding career path.