Shigoto Zukan
日本語

Will AI replace data scientists?AI replacement risk 73% and how the work is changing

United States AI & Data Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$120,230
25th–75th pct. $85,660–$158,880
Top pay (est.)
$258,900
Top 10% $199,130
Pay in 5 years
$141,500est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$166,500est.
$143,200–$193,300
Outlook score
65/100
★★★☆☆ Good
AI replacement risk
73%
High
Job growth (10 yr)
+34.6%
25K openings / yr

Will AI replace Data Scientists? AI replacement risk

73%
High
Ranked #758 safest from AI among all U.S. occupations
Very lowLowModerateHighVery high

How AI is changing this job

A written analysis for this occupation is being prepared.

AI replacement risk compares the parts of a job that are easy to hand to AI or software (processing information, documentation, repetitive computer work) with the parts that are hard to automate (physical work, working closely with people, judgment in unpredictable settings), using O*NET work activities, work context, skills and knowledge. The result is a relative position among all occupations in the country, scaled to 0–100%. Methodology →

Skills, education and requirements for Data Scientists

Key skills

Mathematics
5.0
Reading Comprehension
4.6
Critical Thinking
4.6
Active Learning
4.4
Writing
4.1
Complex Problem Solving
4.1
Judgment and Decision Making
4.0
Active Listening
3.8

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

Computers and Electronics
5.8
Mathematics
5.7
Engineering and Technology
3.5
English Language
3.4
Administration and Management
3.0
Education and Training
2.9
Design
2.5
Administrative
2.4

What the work involves

Analyzing Data or InformationProcessing InformationUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeInterpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersThinking CreativelyMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsGetting InformationProviding Consultation and Advice to Others

Important abilities

Deductive ReasoningInductive ReasoningOral ComprehensionOral ExpressionWritten ComprehensionMathematical Reasoning

Training before entry

None / short demo
44%
1–3 months
20%
3–6 months
12%
Up to 1 month
12%
6–12 months
8%
1–2 years
4%

Related work experience

None
28%
1–2 years
16%
2–4 years
16%
6–12 months
16%
4–6 years
12%
3–6 months
12%

Job Zone 4 — considerable preparation needed (O*NET)

Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)

Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.