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Entry Level Data Scientist Jobs in Springfield, IL

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Entry Level Data Scientist information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$45.6K

$163.6K

$241.3K

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

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level data scientist in Springfield, IL is $163,551.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,300.00 and $168,500.00 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.

More about Entry Level Data Scientist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Data Scientist jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Data Scientist jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Entry Level Data Scientist jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Entry Level Data Scientist job openings:
Entry Level Data Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Data Scientist job openings in Springfield, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $163,551 per year, or $78.6 per hour.

SENIOR SOFTWARE DEVELOPER

State of Illinois

Springfield, IL • On-site

$7.5K - $11K/mo

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

State Of Illinois rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 50 rated states

Job description

Agency: Board of Elections 
Closing Date/Time: August 3rd, 2026
Anticipated Starting Salary: $7,500 - $10,000 per month 

Full Range:  $7,500-$11,667 per month

County: Sangamon
Number of Vacancies: 1

FLSA Status: Exempt

The SBE is a non-code agency.
 

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

As a State of Illinois employee, you receive a comprehensive benefits package including:
    Competitive Group Insurance benefits including health, life, dental and vision plans
    Flexible work schedules (when available and dependent upon position)
    10 -25 days of paid vacation time annually (10 days for first year of state employment)
    12 days of paid sick time annually which carryover year to year
    3 paid personal business days per year
    13 paid holidays per year
    12 weeks of paid parental leave
    Pension plan through the State Employees Retirement System
    Deferred Compensation Program - voluntary supplemental retirement plan
    Optional pre-tax programs -Medical Care Assistance Plan (MCAP) & Dependent Care Assistant Plan (DCAP)
    Tuition Reimbursement Program and Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility

For more information regarding State of Illinois Benefits follow this link: https://www2.illinois.gov/cms/benefits/Pages/default.aspx

Work Hours: 8:00 - 4:30 PM Monday - Friday
Work Location: 2329 S. MacArthur Blvd, Springfield IL 62704
Agency Contact: dmartinez@elections.il.gov
Posting Group: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathmatics


****A RESUME IS REQUIRED FOR THIS JOB POSTING****

Please attach a DETAILED Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV), a copy of your transcripts or diploma for all degrees earned, and a copy of any applicable professional licensures to the MY DOCUMENTS section of your application. 

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Functional Statement

Under the general supervision of the Chief Information Officer and Deputy Chief Information Officer and the day-to-day supervision of the Information Services Team Leads, independently develops, maintains, and enhances the State Board of Elections' Information Systems.

Essential Function 1

Establishes application development task schedules, testing plans and implementation schedules; Performs technical analysis, design, and programming according to SBE standards; Coordinates development, testing and implementation with end-users, technical consultants and IT Staff according to SBE standards; Consults with end-users to determine application goals, requirements, cost, architecture, and impact to existing systems. Performs standard database administration tasks including database creation, schema definition, modification, and permission management.

Essential Function 2

Provides level 3 (highest level) of technical support for Agency end-users as well as end-users of other agency-developed systems. Develops and coordinates data exchanges with election jurisdictions, State agencies, Federal and State courts, political committees and technical consultants; Provides technical support as needed to facilitate exchanges; For systems of any level of complexity, consults with end-users to determine application goals, requirements, cost, architecture, and impact to existing systems.

Essential Function 3

Compiles materials, plans, and conducts training sessions for data input staff and agency end-users; Mentors journeyman and entry-level developers on SBE programming techniques and compliance with programming standards; Performs Code Reviews of peers, journeymen, and entry-level developers to insure compliance with State Board of Elections development standards.

Essential Function 4

Through continuing self-study and/or formal coursework, acquires knowledge of advanced information systems concepts and techniques, productivity tools, election law, and Board policy as they affect Board Information Systems. Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of duties enumerated above.

Minimum Qualifications 1

Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of four years of college supplemented by seven years of professional experience in a related Information Technology field.

Minimum Qualifications 2

Requires ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with agency officials, associates, vendors, clients, and election authorities.

Minimum Qualifications 3

Requires ability to coordinate the activities of lower-level technical staff to achieve desired results.

Minimum Qualifications 4

Requires knowledge and experience in the use of ASP.NET, C#.NET, SQL Server, and Power BI.

Desired Qualifications 1

Desirable qualifications include experience with VB.NET, Crystal Reports, Microsoft Reporting Services, and providing customer service or user support.

The State Board of Elections welcomes all and promotes workplace diversity. It is our individual traits, character, and experiences that make each of us special and unique. It is only when we bring that individualism together and work as a diverse team that we thrive. There is no place for discrimination based on race, religion, culture, sexual identity or orientation, age, or disability at the State Board of Elections.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the "Apply" button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.
If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so.
State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees - a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 
Non-State employees should log in on the using the "View Profile" link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.
If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:
State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid
Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com - click "Application Procedures" in the footer of every page of the website.

What State Of Illinois employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

Social media

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