Average Data Science Manager salary by company size

by | Published on Jul 13, 2024 | Compensation

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Wondering how company size affects a data science manager’s salary? This article provides detailed salary ranges for data science managers in small, medium, large, and enterprise-sized companies, focusing on the “average data science manager salary by company size.” Read on to learn what you can expect to earn based on the size of your organization.

Overview

  • Data Science Managers play a key role in transforming raw data into actionable insights, utilizing a mix of technical proficiency and leadership skills to drive business strategy.

  • Compensation for Data Science Managers varies with company size, with larger companies offering higher salaries due to the complexity and scale of their operations.

  • Significant pay disparities exist based on gender, with male Data Science Managers often earning more than their female counterparts, highlighting the need for proactive efforts to address gender inequality in the field.

What does a Data Science Manager do?

Data Science Manager overseeing team

Operating as the cornerstone of any data-focused organization, a Data Science Manager:

  • Transforms raw data into actionable insights, often working closely with a data analyst

  • Utilizes data-oriented programming languages and visualization software

  • Develops and implements analytics techniques to convert complex datasets into meaningful information

  • Oversees the deployment of methods such as data mining, data modeling, natural language processing, and machine learning to unearth patterns and trends that can drive business strategy.

They are also responsible for:

  • Visualizing, interpreting, and communicating data findings through engaging reports, which can significantly impact top-tier decision-making.

  • Presenting their findings clearly and persuasively to stakeholders. Communication skills are paramount in this role.

  • Blending technical prowess and managerial acumen, making it one of the most demanding yet rewarding positions in the field of data science.

Apart from technical proficiency, Data Science Managers need exemplary leadership and problem-solving abilities, leading their teams past intricate data obstacles and aligning projects with business objectives. Research skills also come into play, enabling these managers to stay ahead of industry trends and continually refine their strategies.

What are the qualities of a good Data Science Manager

Data Science Manager with analytical tools

A proficient Data Science Manager with a master’s degree excels in maintaining balance – they are skilled in navigating the technical intricacies of:

  • data

  • mathematics

  • statistics

  • machine learning

  • software

  • computer science

while simultaneously aligning these facets with the broader business landscape. They earn the respect and trust of their technical team by actively contributing to big picture discussions and providing valuable feedback on crucial decisions like model selection.

Effective Data Science Managers:

  • Add structure to workflows through processes such as agile feedback loops, code reviews, and meticulous documentation

  • Take ownership of key workflow areas, including data acquisition, data quality, and result presentation, ensuring that every aspect of the data science process is optimized for success

  • Translate business goals into technical metrics and converse fluently with domain experts

  • Launch data science solutions that drive smart business decisions in the real world

Additionally, these managers need to demonstrate the following qualities:

  • Excellent communication skills, which allow them to articulate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and garner agreement on data-driven strategies

  • Technical expertise

  • Leadership skills

  • Business acumen

These qualities define the qualities of a successful Data Science Manager.

Common Pay Structure Explained

Salary components breakdown

Data Science Managers’ remuneration package usually comprises several crucial elements. The base salary forms the foundation, with amounts varying widely based on factors like location, years of experience, and educational background. Beyond the base salary, bonuses play a significant role, often tied to performance metrics and overall company success. These bonuses can significantly augment the total compensation, providing a lucrative incentive for high performance.

Stock options, another essential element, provide Data Science Managers with a share in the company’s future prosperity and success. These options can be especially attractive in rapidly growing companies, where the potential for significant financial gain is substantial. Additionally, benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development budgets are commonly included in the compensation package, enhancing the overall value.

Depending on the company and the role’s prerequisites, compensation for Data Science Managers may include:

  • Competitive salary

  • Performance bonuses

  • Stock options

  • Health and retirement benefits

  • Relocation assistance

  • Yearly incentives

This comprehensive approach to compensation ensures that Data Science Managers are well-rewarded for their critical contributions to the organization’s success.

Small Companies (1-50 Employees)

In small companies with 1-50 employees, Data Science Managers often wear multiple hats, balancing strategic and hands-on technical tasks due to limited staff. The average salary for these managers is around $60,000, reflecting the broader range of responsibilities they must handle.

The need for adaptability in smaller companies necessitates Data Science Managers to be prepared for diverse challenges, spanning from data acquisition to intricate analytics and reporting. This versatility, though demanding, offers a unique opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the business and its data needs.

Medium-Sized Companies (51-500 Employees)

Medium-sized companies, with 51-500 employees, offer a more structured environment for Data Science Managers. These professionals can expect to earn between $160,000 and $350,000 annually. In this setting, they often oversee data analytics, data science, and data engineering departments, implementing advanced analytics to derive business insights.

The surge in resources and complexity of data strategies in medium-sized companies necessitates superior expertise and consequently draws higher salaries. The job title involves not only managing teams but also driving significant projects that impact the company’s growth and success.

Large Companies (501-1000 Employees)

At large companies with 501-1000 employees, Data Science Managers can expect to earn between $130,000 and $273,000 annually. These managers are typically responsible for overseeing large teams and managing substantial projects, which justifies the higher salary range. Their role often includes strategic decision-making processes, influencing the direction of products and services through data-driven insights.

The scale of operations in large companies necessitates handling large and complex data sets, employing various analytical and statistical approaches to solve challenging problems. Data Science Managers in this environment must be adept at leading teams to develop strategies that serve millions of users and businesses.

They are also responsible for conveying findings and suggestions to senior leadership, convincingly advocating for product directions and investments. This combination of technical expertise and strategic influence underscores the critical role they play in large organizations.

Enterprise-Level Companies (>1000 Employees)

In enterprise-level companies with over 1,000 employees, Data Science Managers command an average salary of $167,012 annually. These roles come with significant managerial responsibilities, overseeing complex data science processes and driving analytics projects end-to-end in collaboration with product, engineering, and cross-functional teams.

The higher salaries in these large enterprises reflect the complexity and scope of the tasks involved in data science positions, as well as the critical role Data Science Managers play in shaping product strategy and investment decisions. The managerial position requires a high level of expertise and the ability to coordinate large-scale data initiatives effectively.

Average Total Cash Compensation

The total monetary compensation for Data Science Managers encompasses the base salary, bonuses, and other financial incentives. This comprehensive package ensures that managers are rewarded not just for their regular duties, but also for their performance and contributions to the company’s success.

Bonuses can vary widely but are typically based on performance metrics, company profitability, and individual achievements. Additional incentives such as stock options further enhance the potential for long-term financial gain, making the overall compensation package highly attractive.

The Impact of the Financing Environment on an Data Science Manager’s Compensation

The fiscal wellness and funding climate of a company considerably impact the remuneration of Data Science Managers. Well-funded companies, particularly in tech and high-growth sectors, tend to offer more competitive compensation packages to attract top talent. Startups with significant venture capital backing also provide competitive salaries and equity options, making them attractive to data professionals.

In contrast, companies in low-margin industries may have limited budgets, resulting in lower salaries for Data Science Managers. Economic factors such as growth, inflation, and unemployment can also impact salary expectations and the overall compensation landscape.

How much do Data Science Managers of startups earn?

The remuneration of Data Science Managers at startups can differ greatly based on the company’s funding stage, size, and industry. Well-funded startups or those in their growth stages often offer higher salaries to attract and retain top talent.

Industries that are data-intensive, such as technology and finance, tend to provide higher salaries for Data Science Managers at startups. Additionally, location plays a significant role, with higher salaries typically found in major tech hubs.

Different industries of Data Science Managers and their average pay

The remuneration of Data Science Managers, or data science salaries, can greatly fluctuate across various industries. For instance, those in the telecommunications industry typically earn around $162,990 annually, while those in the information technology sector have an average salary of approximately $161,146 per year.

In the financial services and healthcare sectors, Data Science Managers earn about $158,033 and $147,041 annually, respectively. These industries are known for their heavy reliance on data-driven decision-making, which drives up the demand and compensation for skilled data professionals.

On the lower end of the spectrum, Data Science Managers in the education and manufacturing sectors earn around $120,445 and $121,285 per year, respectively. Despite the lower pay compared to other industries, these roles offer unique challenges and opportunities to make a significant impact.

What is the average Data Science Manager salary by company size: 2023?

In 2023, the average data scientist salary for Data Science Managers exhibited considerable variation based on the company size. Managers at companies with over 1,000 employees had a median salary ranging from $90,000 to $110,000. Those in medium-sized companies (26 to 1,000 employees) typically received a median salary of around $80,000.

Small companies and startups with 2-25 employees generally had a median salary of around $60,000, which was lower compared to larger companies. These figures highlight how company size can influence compensation, with larger organizations offering higher salaries due to greater resources and more complex data needs.

What is the average Data Science Manager salary: 2024?

The average remuneration for Data Science Managers in 2024 is projected to rise, bolstered by the escalating demand for data professionals. As more organizations recognize the value of data-driven decision-making, the need for skilled managers to oversee these initiatives will continue to rise.

This increased demand for data science jobs is likely to push salaries higher, especially in industries that heavily rely on data analytics and machine learning. Data Science Managers with advanced degrees and specialized skills will be particularly sought after, commanding top salaries in the market.

What is the outlook for Data Science Manager pay?

The salary prospects for Data Science Managers are extremely promising. With the employment rate for data scientists projected to grow by 36% from 2021 to 2031, the demand for data science expertise is clear. This growth is fueled by the increasing reliance on big data for business growth and the need for data-driven decision-making across industries.

As a result, Data Science Managers can expect to see upward trends in salaries, reflecting the critical role they play in leveraging data for strategic advantage. The median salary for a data scientist in the US is already substantial, with higher potential earnings for those in managerial positions.

Data Science Manager Salary: Men vs Women

Gender diversity in data science

Even with the escalating demand for data scientists, only 26% of the data science workforce comprises women. This gender disparity is reflected in data scientist salaries as well. In the US, female data scientists are estimated to be paid between $90,000 and $100,000, while their male counterparts earn between $100,000 and $125,000. This significant gap highlights the ongoing issue of gender inequality in the field.

A proactive approach is crucial in addressing the gender wage gap. Conducting regular pay audits is essential to identify and address any discrepancies within an organization. Transparency in the results of these audits can build trust and enhance the reputation of a company as a fair and equitable employer.

Additionally, a rise in female representation in data science leadership roles can:

  • Boost overall departmental performance and competitiveness

  • Foster an inclusive environment

  • Promote diversity

  • Bridge the pay gap

  • Drive innovation and success

What are the US states with the highest Data Science Manager pay

Some US states offer substantially higher remuneration for Data Science Managers, mirroring the demand for their expertise in pivotal industries. California, for example, is known for offering the highest pay, often exceeding salaries in other states. This is driven by the presence of leading tech companies and the high cost of living in areas like Silicon Valley and San Francisco.

New York also ranks high in terms of Data Science Manager salaries, fueled by the demand in financial and tech industries. Massachusetts, particularly the Boston area, is another top-paying state, influenced by its strong tech and educational sectors. These states not only provide higher salaries but also offer vibrant professional environments for data science professionals.

Additional Compensation and Benefits

Additional compensation and benefits for data science managers

Beyond the base salary, Data Science Managers frequently receive substantial additional compensation and benefits. Performance bonuses are a common form of additional cash compensation, rewarding managers for meeting or exceeding their targets. Stock options are also frequently included, providing long-term financial gains as the company’s value grows.

Healthcare benefits and retirement plans, such as 401(k) matching, are standard parts of the compensation package, ensuring the well-being and financial security of the managers. Other negotiable perks might include additional vacation time, remote work options, and professional development budgets, making the role even more attractive.

Summary

In summary, the salary of a Data Science Manager varies widely based on company size, industry, and location. From small startups to large enterprises, each environment offers different levels of compensation, reflecting the complexity and scope of the role. The financial health and funding environment of the company also play crucial roles in determining salaries.

As the demand for data science continues to grow, so too will the opportunities and compensation for Data Science Managers. Addressing gender disparities and ensuring equitable pay across the board will be key to fostering a diverse and innovative workforce. By understanding these trends and factors, both data professionals and employers can make informed decisions to drive success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average salary of a Data Science Manager in 2024?

The average salary for a Data Science Manager in 2024 is expected to increase due to the growing demand for data professionals and higher salaries especially in data-intensive industries.

How does company size affect Data Science Manager salaries?

Company size significantly affects salaries for Data Science Managers, as larger companies typically offer higher pay due to greater resources and more complex data needs.

Are there differences in salaries between male and female Data Science Managers?

Yes, there is a gender pay gap in salaries of Data Science Managers, with males generally earning more than females. It is essential to conduct regular pay audits and promote increased representation of women in leadership roles to address this disparity.

Which US states offer the highest salaries for Data Science Managers?

California, New York, and Massachusetts offer the highest salaries for Data Science Managers due to the high demand in tech, financial, and educational sectors. Consider exploring opportunities in these states for better earning potential.

What additional compensation and benefits do Data Science Managers typically receive?

Data Science Managers typically receive additional compensation in the form of performance bonuses, stock options, healthcare benefits, retirement plans, remote work options, and professional development budgets. These benefits complement their base salary and reflect the value they bring to the organization.