The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Junior Quality Data Analyst (Internal Promotion)
1-2 yearsSkills to master
- Mastering basic SQL queries, understanding our core operational data sources, building simple reports, and consistently cleaning data accurately.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently delivers accurate and timely basic reports.
- Can independently troubleshoot common data quality issues.
- Shows initiative in learning new tools and understanding operational processes.
- Receives positive feedback on data accuracy and attention to detail.
- 2
Data Analyst (from other industries/departments)
2-3 years of prior experienceSkills to master
- Adapting existing data analysis skills to the specific context of operations and manufacturing, learning industry-specific metrics and challenges, and understanding ERP/MES data structures.
You're ready to move on when
- Demonstrates strong SQL and visualisation skills.
- Quickly grasps operational concepts and terminology.
- Proactively seeks to understand the 'why' behind operational data.
- Successfully translates data skills to solve real-world production problems.
- 3
Process Engineer / Quality Engineer (with strong data skills)
2-4 years of prior experienceSkills to master
- Developing deeper statistical analysis skills, mastering data extraction and manipulation tools (SQL, Python), and learning advanced data visualisation techniques.
You're ready to move on when
- Already possesses a strong understanding of operational processes and quality principles.
- Shows a keen interest and aptitude for data analysis and programming.
- Can demonstrate how data could enhance their previous engineering roles.
- Is eager to transition into a more data-focused, less hands-on engineering role.