Hone your analytic talents and become part of the next big thing

Getting a Big Data Job For Dummies is the ultimate guide to landing a position in one of the fastest-growing fields in the modern economy. Learn exactly what "big data" means, why it's so important across all industries, and how you can obtain one of the most sought-after skill sets of the decade. This book walks you through the process of identifying your ideal big data job, shaping the perfect resume, and nailing the interview, all in one easy-to-read guide.

Companies from all industries, including finance, technology, medicine, and defense, are harnessing massive amounts of data to reap a competitive advantage. The demand for big data professionals is growing every year, and experts forecast an estimated 1.9 million additional U.S. jobs in big data by 2015. Whether your niche is developing the technology, handling the data, or analyzing the results, turning your attention to a career in big data can lead to a more secure, more lucrative career path. Getting a Big Data Job For Dummies provides an overview of the big data career arc, and then shows you how to get your foot in the door with topics like:

• The education you need to succeed


• The range of big data career path options


• An overview of major big data employers


• A plan to develop your job-landing strategy

Your analytic inclinations may be your ticket to long-lasting success. In a highly competitive job market, developing your data skills can create a situation where you pick your employer rather than the other way around. If you're ready to get in on the ground floor of the next big thing, Getting a Big Data Job For Dummies will teach you everything you need to know to get started today.

Jason Williamson is an assistant professor at the University of Virginia's McIntire School of Commerce. He has worked with leading Fortune 100 companies including Oracle, GE, and Capital One, and was the co-founder and CTO of BuildLinks, the construction industry's first SaaS/CRM offering.

Introduction 1

Part I: Getting a Job in Big Data 5

Chapter 1: The Big Picture of Big Data Jobs 7

Chapter 2: Seeing Yourself in a Big Data Job 17

Chapter 3: Key Big Data Concepts 29

Part II: Getting Your Big Data Education 47

Chapter 4: Roles in Big Data Revealed 49

Chapter 5: Foundations of a Big Data Education 63

Chapter 6: Making Your Own Way (For the Experienced Professional) 73

Chapter 7: Knowing Your Big Data Tools 85

Part III: Finding a Job with the Right Organization 101

Chapter 8: Life as a Consultant 103

Chapter 9: Working as an In-House Big Data Specialist 115

Chapter 10: Living on the Edge with a Startup 123

Chapter 11: Serving in the Public Sector or Academia 131

Part IV: Developing a Job-Landing Strategy 139

Chapter 12: Building Your Network and Brand 141

Chapter 13: Creating a Winning Résumé 151

Chapter 14: Preparing to Nail Your Interview 163

Part V: The Part of Tens 183

Chapter 15: Ten Ways to Maximize Social Media in Your Job Hunt 185

Chapter 16: Ten Interview Questions and Answers You Need to Know 191

Chapter 17: Ten Free Data Science Tools and Applications 197

Part VI: Appendixes 211

Appendix A: Resources 213

Appendix B: Glossary 219

Index 229