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Entry Data Scientist Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Data Scientist information

See Portland, OR salary details

$48.8K

$175K

$258.2K

How much do entry data scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry data scientist in Portland, OR is $175,003.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,600.00 and $180,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry data scientist?

Entry Data Scientists are professionals at the beginning of their data science careers who use statistical analysis, programming, and data visualization to extract meaningful insights from data. They typically work with large datasets, clean and preprocess data, build and test models, and help solve business problems using data-driven approaches. Entry-level data scientists often collaborate with more experienced data scientists, engineers, and business stakeholders to support projects and improve decision-making processes. They usually have foundational knowledge in mathematics, statistics, and programming languages like Python or R.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry data scientist expect in their first year?

As an entry-level data scientist, you'll typically work on tasks such as cleaning and preprocessing data, building simple predictive models, and assisting with data visualization for reporting. You may collaborate closely with more experienced data scientists, data engineers, and business analysts to help frame business problems into analytical solutions. It's common to contribute to parts of larger projects, such as supporting feature engineering or testing model performance, while learning best practices in coding and data analysis. Over time, you may be given ownership of small projects, which helps build your expertise and prepares you for more complex assignments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry data scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Data Scientist, you need a solid grasp of statistics, data analysis, and programming languages like Python or R, typically supported by a degree in a quantitative field. Familiarity with tools such as SQL, machine learning libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow), and data visualization platforms is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, curiosity, and effective communication skills set successful candidates apart in this role. These competencies enable you to extract actionable insights from data and collaborate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.

What is the difference between Entry Data Scientist vs Data Analyst?

AspectEntry Data ScientistData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS, Statistics, or related field; some knowledge of programming and machine learningBachelor's in Math, Statistics, or related field; strong Excel and data visualization skills
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with data science teams, develops models, and explores dataPrepares reports, interprets data, and supports decision-making
Industry UsageUsed in tech, finance, healthcare, and more for predictive modelingCommon across marketing, finance, and operations for reporting and analysis

Entry Data Scientists focus on building models and applying machine learning techniques, often requiring programming skills. Data Analysts primarily interpret data, create reports, and support business decisions. While both roles work with data, Entry Data Scientists tend to handle more technical tasks involving modeling, whereas Data Analysts focus on data interpretation and visualization.

Can I get an entry data scientist job with no experience?

Entry data scientist roles typically require some knowledge of programming, statistics, and data analysis tools like Python or R. While prior experience is often preferred, candidates with relevant coursework, internships, or strong analytical skills can sometimes qualify for entry-level positions. Building a portfolio of projects and obtaining certifications can improve chances of securing such roles without formal work experience.

How to start a career in data science with no experience?

Entry data scientists can begin by building foundational skills in programming languages like Python or R, and learning data analysis and visualization tools such as SQL and Tableau. Gaining hands-on experience through online courses, tutorials, and personal projects helps demonstrate competence to employers. Earning certifications like those from Coursera or edX can also enhance credibility and improve job prospects.

What job categories do people searching Entry Data Scientist jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Data Scientist jobs in Portland, OR are:

Infographic showing various Entry Data Scientist job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $175,003 per year, or $84.1 per hour.

Scientist, Principal

A-dec, Inc.

Newberg, OR • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 hours ago


A-dec rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 52 rated furniture manufacturers


Job description

At A-dec, we do more than create the highest quality products and services for the dental industry; we strive to deliver a superior employment experience for each of our team members. With an environment that encourages and assists each person in developing to their highest potential, a career at A-dec is incredibly rewarding.
Overview
The Principal Scientist serves as a senior technical leader responsible for identifying, shaping, and advancing emerging technologies and applied scientific approaches that enable differentiated, value-creating solutions for A-dec. This role leads exploratory and applied research across physics, chemistry, materials, mechanics, optics, electromagnetics, thermal systems, and related domains, translating scientific insights into commercially relevant concepts, platforms, and strategic opportunities.
The position emphasizes hands-on technical contribution combined with strategic influence. The Principal Scientist evaluates novel technologies, develops proof-of-concept solutions, and partners closely with Product & Technology, Growth, and executive leadership to inform innovation strategy, development investments, and potential partnerships or acquisitions. This role also establishes and maintains strong external networks across academia, industry, and the innovation ecosystem to extend A-dec's technical reach and capability.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Lead applied research in physics, chemistry, materials, and related applied sciences to generate novel products, platforms, and business opportunities aligned with A-dec's strategic objectives.
  • Identify, evaluate, and mature emerging technologies and system concepts with potential for differentiation or new market entry.
  • Serve as a senior technical authority, translating complex physical principles, models, and data into clear, actionable insights for technical, business, and executive audiences.
  • Assess technical feasibility, performance limits, risks, and business potential of technologies new to the company to inform development, partnership, or acquisition decisions.
  • Develop and apply models, simulations, and experiments to guide design decisions and reduce technical uncertainty.
  • Provide technical leadership across concept development, validation, and transition to downstream development and commercialization teams.
  • Partner with Product & Technology, Growth, and functional leaders to align on research priorities, roadmaps, and resource needs.
  • Build and leverage an external network of academic and industry experts to accelerate learning, evaluation, and innovation.
  • Create and present technical strategies, proposals, and business cases that clearly articulate value, differentiation, risks, and tradeoffs.
  • Educate and influence internal stakeholders on emerging scientific domains, enabling technologies, and adjacent industries.
  • Mentor technical talent and model rigorous scientific thinking and execution.
  • Monitor industry trends and competitive activity, recommending capability development to sustain technical leadership and growth.
  • Support cross-functional initiatives that build organizational capability and deliver measurable business outcomes.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Recognized technical depth with the ability to apply physics, chemistry, and engineering principles across multiple problem domains.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead complex, ambiguous research initiatives from concept through validation with minimal direction.
  • Strong strategic thinking and systems-level perspective, with the ability to connect scientific innovation to business value.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of influencing diverse audiences, including senior leadership.
  • Proven ability to translate customer, technical, and business requirements into viable, innovative solutions.
  • Experience leading technical collaborations with internal teams and external partners across disciplines.
  • Track record of hands-on technical contribution combined with thought leadership and mentorship.
  • Strong judgment in assessing technical and business risk, developing mitigation strategies, and driving timely execution.
  • Willingness and ability to travel up to 10% as required throughout the year.

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, or a related discipline.
  • Minimum of 20 years of experience in research, applied science, or product development (or Ph.D. with a minimum of 15 years of experience), including senior-level technical leadership and experience informing business or innovation strategy.

Preferred Experience
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in a relevant scientific or engineering field.
  • Experience working in regulated industries and/or complex electromechanical or healthcare-adjacent products.
  • Demonstrated success applying modeling, simulation, and experimentation to guide system design and technology decisions.
  • History of external technical engagement through publications, patents, presentations, or industry collaboration.
  • Business or strategy training (e.g., MBA or equivalent experience) relevant to innovation, technology commercialization, or growth initiatives.

Disclaimer
This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not to be construed as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. A-dec reserves the right to assign job duties and days and hours of work based on factors such as workload requirements, staffing levels, and customer demands.
At A-dec, we value our people and show it by prioritizing an inclusive culture, total well-being, and opportunities for learning and career advancement.
A background check and screen for the illegal use of drugs is required.
A-dec is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. In addition, A-dec will not discriminate against applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another. *VEVRAA Federal Contractor"
A-dec is interested in qualified candidates authorized to work in the United States for US-based positions. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas.

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