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Entry Level Data Scientist Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician |

Decatur, IL ยท On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

... data systems. The entry level Laboratory Technician must have completed training on one aisle prior ... Ideally I would like someone with a background in science with schooling or work experience. This ...

... data systems. The entry level Laboratory Technician must have completed training on one aisle prior ... college science lab is preferred Experience in lieu of college laboratory experience will be ...

QC Engineer-Quality

Decatur, IL ยท On-site

$55K - $63K/yr

A Fuyao Glass Illinois (FGI) Quality Data Engineer is responsible for supporting the storage ... This entry-level position is ideal for candidates with a background in business analytics, database ...

Entry Level Data Scientist information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$44.6K

$160.1K

$236.2K

How much do entry level data scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level data scientist in Decatur, IL is $160,062.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,500.00 and $164,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Entry-Level Data Scientist Do?

An entry-level data scientist works to examine, interpret, and collect large sets of data. In this role, your responsibilities include extracting and processing information to find patterns and trends, using technology to analyze data, and creating a machine-learning algorithm or predictive model for data analysis. Other duties include proposing strategies and solutions based on the information you derived from a data set, using ensemble modeling to combine models, automating processes to collect data, discovering valuable data sources, and using data visualization techniques to present information. You often collaborate with product development and engineering teams.

What does an Entry Level Data Scientist do?

An Entry Level Data Scientist helps organizations analyze and interpret large sets of data to solve business problems. They typically assist with data cleaning, exploratory data analysis, and building simple machine learning models under the supervision of more experienced data scientists. Their work often involves using programming languages like Python or R, and tools such as SQL and data visualization software. Entry level data scientists also collaborate with other team members to communicate findings and support data-driven decision-making.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level data scientists in their first year on the job?

Entry level data scientists often encounter challenges such as working with messy or incomplete datasets, adapting to unfamiliar data tools and company-specific processes, and translating business problems into actionable data analyses. They may also find it challenging to communicate technical findings to non-technical stakeholders and to prioritize projects in a fast-paced environment. Building strong relationships with colleagues in engineering, business, and analytics teams is key to overcoming these challenges and accelerating learning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Data Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Data Scientist, you need a solid foundation in statistics, programming (typically Python or R), and data analysis, often supported by a degree in a quantitative field such as mathematics, computer science, or engineering. Familiarity with tools like SQL, Jupyter Notebooks, and machine learning libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow) is commonly expected. Strong problem-solving skills, curiosity, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting data and presenting findings to stakeholders. These abilities enable you to extract actionable insights from data, support business decisions, and contribute value to data-driven organizations.

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

AspectEntry Level Data ScientistData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS, Statistics, or related field; some knowledge of programming and machine learningBachelor's in Business, Statistics, or related field; strong Excel, SQL, and visualization skills
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with data science teams, uses programming languages like Python or R, focuses on predictive modelingWorks with business teams, uses SQL, Excel, and BI tools, focuses on reporting and data visualization
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, finance, healthcare, startupsRetail, marketing, finance, healthcare, government

Entry Level Data Scientists and Data Analysts often share foundational skills like SQL and data visualization. However, data scientists typically focus on building predictive models and machine learning algorithms, requiring programming knowledge, while data analysts concentrate on interpreting data through reports and dashboards. Both roles are essential in data-driven organizations but differ in technical depth and project scope.

What are the most commonly searched types of Data Scientist jobs in Decatur, IL? The most popular types of Data Scientist jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Data Scientist jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Data Scientist jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Entry Level Data Scientist jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Entry Level Data Scientist job openings:

Lab Technician |

AdientOne Consulting

Decatur, IL โ€ข On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Contractor

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

The entry level position is designed to train the new technician on one of the four (4) analytical aisles in the QC laboratory. In this role, they will prepare process and/or finished product samples; perform analytical testing using instrumental and wet chemistry procedures, and record results using computerized data systems. The entry level Laboratory Technician must have completed training on one aisle prior to their transition to the Laboratory Technician I position.

Aside from learning the skills necessary for advancement to the next level the entry level technician must also:

  • Complete both plant and laboratory safety orientations
  • Work safely to prevent on-the-job injuries by complying with all department and plant safety policies
  • React immediately to eliminate any hazards, unsafe equipment and/or acts. Additionally insures that any accidents, injuries and near misses are reported immediately to area supervision
  • Perform at least one Laboratory Safety audit per month
  • Complete at minimum 3 safety engagements each month
  • Willingness and ability to work within the time demands of a 24/7/365 workday operation
  • Demonstrate sufficient math skills to perform calculations associated with lab testing
  • Demonstrate ability to accept instruction, coaching, and constructive criticism as tools for continuous improvement
  • Demonstrate computer skills
  • Perform other duties as assigned by quality department management

Each employee should possess a solid understanding of a laboratory environment and a working knowledge of cGMP, FDA, and other regulatory requirements. Familiarity with Laboratory Instrumentation including HPLC, GC, and IC is beneficial. New technicians are certified in each area around 60-90 days from when they begin working an aisle alone. Laboratory Technician III and Supervision members watch them perform required tests to ensure they have been properly trained prior to sign off. The Entry Level Laboratory Technician position requires no previous laboratory experience, but completion of a college science lab is preferred. Experience in lieu of college laboratory experience will be considered on a case by case basis. Ideally I would like someone with a background in science with schooling or work experience. This not a requirement, however, it just aides in faster training and qualification of technicians. If they have work experience in a faster paced field that will work as well, someone who can multitask easily can also do this job well. We also look at how long they worked at each previous job, if there is a pattern of less than 6 months at each job, we are less likely to interview although not always. Given the nature of our schedule which is less desirable, we are looking for those who are more likely to stay in a job for a longer period of time