How to Format a Data Scientist Resume

Before explaining why you are the best person for the job, you need to choose the best format.

Now, this is more important than it seems.

It allows your best features to “jump off the page” into the vision of recruiters.

The most common form of resume is “reverse chronological” and for good reason. Essentially, it allows the recruiter to instantly see the value you provide. We recommend that most individuals start with this format.

The following resume formats are also getting our approval:

• Functional Resume – If you have strong skills but have poor work history, this resume format is recommended. Ideal for skilled scientists who do not have much experience or have gaps in their employment background.
• Combination Resume – Acting as a combination of both “Functional” and “Reverse Chronological” formats, you can use a combined resume if you have rich work experience.

After choosing your format, you need to edit your resume layout.

Use a Data Scientist Resume Template

As a data scientist, you present data in a structured way.

The same should happen to your resume.

However, creating a structured file is not an easy task!

You can use Word, but then you will have to risk the layout falling apart with every small change.

Want to bypass formatting issues? Use a data scientist resume template. How do you list data science skills on a resume?,#How do I write a data scientist resume?,#What is the best resume format to use in 2020?,#What skills does a data scientist need?,#Can I become a data scientist in 6 months?,#What are top 3 skills for data analyst?,#How long should your resume be 2020?,#Is resume now actually free?,#What type of resume is best?,#How can a data scientist stand out?,#What are data science recruiters looking for in a resume?,#What is data scientist job description?,#How do I write a statement of qualifications?,#What tools or devices help you succeed in your role as a data scientist?,#Where do you put personal projects on a resume?,#Who are eligible for data science jobs?,#Which company is best for data scientist?,#Why do data scientists quit?,#Which are red flags on a resume?,#Do you need an objective on your resume 2020?,#What are the 4 types of resumes?,#How long do recruiters look at resumes 2020?,#What does a good resume look like in 2020?,#Is it OK not to include dates on your resume?

What to Include in a Data Scientist Resume

The main sections on a data scientist resume are:

• Work Experience
• Contact Information
• Skills
• Education

Would you like to go a step further? You can also add these optional sections:

• Awards & Certification
• Projects
• Languages
• Interests & Hobbies

But wait –

What should you write for each section?

Read on to learn how.

Would you like to know more about CV sections? View our guide on What to Write on Resume.

How to Write a Data Scientist Resume Summary or Objective

It’s safe to say that recruiters do not have time to review the data of every resume.

Instead, they scan the resume for key points.

In fact, research has shown that recruiters only spend a few seconds on each resume!

So what can you do?

You need an entry that will allow your value to “jump off the page”.

To do this, use a resume summary or goal.

These are quick paragraphs at the top of your resume, just below your contact information.

Now, this part is extremely important. This little paragraph can be the determining factor between scoring an interview and rejecting your resume.

But what’s the difference between the two parts?

A resume summary is a 2-4-sentence summary of your professional experiences and achievements.

Data Scientist Resume Summary Example

Certified data scientist with 12 years of experience for different clients. Achievements include updating data flow processes for an 18% reduction in redundancy and improving the accuracy of estimated prices by 18%. He is highly skilled in data visualization, machine learning, and leadership.

The resume goal is a 2-4-sentence snapshot of what you want to achieve professionally.

Data Scientist Resume Objective Example

Motivated data scientist with more than 2 years of experience as a freelance data scientist. He is passionate about building models that solve problems. Relevant skills include machine learning, problem solving, programming, and creative thinking.

So which is the best, summary or objective?

In general, we recommend that experienced data scientists go with a resume summary. Those who are new to the field, such as graduates and career changers, will be better suited to a goal.

Use Action Words to Make Your Data Scientist Resume POP!

• “Made”
• “Worked”

… Are common words that the recruiter sees over and over again.

However, you want to differentiate your resume from the competition, which means using strong words to make your achievements stand out:

• Conceptualized
• Determined
• Formulated
• Initiated
• Managed
• Spearheaded

How to Correctly List your Education

Every major resume needs an education section.

But don’t worry, nothing too complicated here.

Enter your educational background in the following format:

• Degree Type and Major
• University name
• Years Worked
• GPA, Honors, Courses and anything else you might want to add

Now, you may have some questions regarding this section. So, the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we come across:

• What if I haven’t finished the training yet?

Whether you are a data science graduate or still a student, you should mention all the years studied to date.

• Should I include my high school education?

The general rule of thumb is to include only your highest form of education. So include your high school education if you don’t have an eligible degree for data science

• What should I put first, my education or my experience?

Experiences are priority, so these are first. If you have just graduated, you will probably need to start education.

• Do you need to know more? See our guide on how to list training on a resume.

Top 15 Skills for a Data Scientist Resume

As for the skills section, the hiring manager has seen it all before.

In fact, data scientists need a data scientist to assist with their full CV!

You see, everyone lists all their skills, including job related ones.

Your skills section should highlight your best skills in a task-specific manner.

Here are some of the most common data scientist skills:

What Else Can You Include in a Data Scientist Resume?

We’ve now covered every essential resume section.

However –

The absolute BEST it can be?

Doing a great job with the sections above should be enough to shortlist you, but adding a few of the sections below could be the main factor in whether you are their new data scientist or not. How do you list data science skills on a resume?,#How do I write a data scientist resume?,#What is the best resume format to use in 2020?,#What skills does a data scientist need?,#Can I become a data scientist in 6 months?,#What are top 3 skills for data analyst?,#How long should your resume be 2020?,#Is resume now actually free?,#What type of resume is best?,#How can a data scientist stand out?,#What are data science recruiters looking for in a resume?,#What is data scientist job description?,#How do I write a statement of qualifications?,#What tools or devices help you succeed in your role as a data scientist?,#Where do you put personal projects on a resume?,#Who are eligible for data science jobs?,#Which company is best for data scientist?,#Why do data scientists quit?,#Which are red flags on a resume?,#Do you need an objective on your resume 2020?,#What are the 4 types of resumes?,#How long do recruiters look at resumes 2020?,#What does a good resume look like in 2020?,#Is it OK not to include dates on your resume?

Include a Cover Letter with Your Resume

Here’s the thing –

Cover letters still play an important role in the application process.

They provide a range of benefits, but the main reason for using a cover letter is to show the recruiter that you care about working for his company.

We must use the right structure to create a winning cover letter.

Here is what we recommend:

You should complete the following sections:

Key Takeaways

Congratulations!

If you followed all of the above recommendations, you have given yourself the best possible chance to take on that role of data scientist.

Let’s quickly summarize what we have learned:

• Correctly format your data scientist’s resume by prioritizing the reverse chronological format and then following the content layout guidelines
• Start your resume with a summary or goal to get the recruiter interest
• Pay attention to your best achievements rather than your responsibilities in the work experience section.
• Create a persuasive cover letter for an unrivaled application