Technology · Level D3
Senior Data Scientist
Owns problem definition and data-science strategy for an area, and productionises the models that matter.
Indicative, sourced ranges — not a guarantee. Levels.fyi Data Scientist senior band; blended national; BLS 15-2051 May 2025 p75 $158,880 as floor
Career Score
63/100 · StrongIndicative role rating — same inputs give the same score. It rates the role, not you, and never predicts an outcome.
Near the top of its pay band; growth comes from a lateral move, not this ladder.
Hiring demand is high.
Owns problem definition and ML strategy. These tasks are automating — move up the scope ladder.
High barrier — difficulty, study load, or competition.
Long-term headroom above is high.
Work–life sustainability is moderate.
At a glance
AI & this role: Owns problem definition and ML strategy. The move is to climb the scope ladder, not to fear the tool.
What differentiates you at this level
- Own problem framing and DS strategy
- Productionising models
Credentials that help
Credentials help entry and specialisation; they don't gate senior or leadership roles — scope does.
- Applied ML/AI course (DeepLearning.AI, fast.ai, Coursera ML) · Free (fast.ai) to ~$49/mo Coursera specialisations
- Master's in Data Science / Statistics / CS · $20k-$60k+; online options (e.g. OMSCS) far cheaper (~$7k)
See current US Senior Data Scientist listings mapped to your level, in your metro.
Browse Senior Data Scientist jobs →FAQ
Typical US total compensation is $250,000–$315,000 (median $280,000), indicative and metro-dependent — see the pay breakdown.
Owns problem definition and ML strategy. The move is up the scope ladder, not away from AI.
Progression is by evidenced scope and impact at level.