A Go-to Guide for Hiring Spatial Data Scientists
Spatial data science, also referred to as geographic or location-based data science, is rapidly growing from a “niche” to an in-demand discipline across a wide range of industries, including the private and public sectors, as well as academia.
Today’s savviest businesses require skilled spatial data scientists to optimize operations and enhance customer experiences. We partnered with SafeGraph to craft a guide that offers best practices to successfully recruit exceptional spatial data scientists & thrive in this dynamic landscape.
The demand for location-based data insights is greater today than ever before
The demand for location-based data insights is more important than ever. As organizations strategically leverage data to shape strategies and enrich customer interactions, technologies like data science, AI, and ML are pivotal for transforming insights into actionable results. Spatial data scientists, who specialize in manipulating geolocation data for unique insights, are crucial across sectors. However, their scarcity presents recruitment challenges.?
The current state of hiring in the world of data science
Recruiting spatial data scientists is challenging due to their scarcity - with only 5% of all professionals being true experts - despite increasing demand. Most have around six years of experience, often in related fields such as urban planning, maths, physics or computer science. Although spatial data science technology is accessible, finding qualified talent remains an obstacle for companies. Therefore while the field is growing, immediate demand exceeds supply.
Challenges faced by hiring managers
Precise job descriptions are essential to help recruiters differentiate strong candidates. Our research with SafeGraph highlights crucial hiring criteria, from statistical expertise to data product development, dataviz & storytelling to GIS software familiarity. Evaluating overall job experience for these skills is crucial. However, rigorous interviews and technical tests are time-consuming, and rushed hiring could lead to mis-hires. Successfully addressing limited talent availability and candidate qualification requires a balanced approach for effective hiring.
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How to hire the right spatial data scientist
In the 2023 State of Spatial Data Science report, a survey indicated that 68% of organizations plan to invest more in spatial data science in the next 2 years. Overcoming challenges involves refining job descriptions and attracting suitable candidates. Platforms like LinkedIn, and employee referrals can help identify potential candidates facing challenges in other companies. Engaging with the community through webinars, conferences (such as the Spatial Data Science Conference), hackathons and meetups (such as Spatial Data Science Bootcamps) nurtures a network of spatial data scientists for future hires.?
5 best practices to guide your hiring process
“My approach is to read through the questions, have a hypothesis of what I expect to see and make a plan on paper of how I’ll use the data. When the data is actually from the company’s products, it’s definitely more compelling and allows you to understand what the role entails and have an appreciation for what makes it challenging or interesting.” - Data Science Analyst at a leading data science company
At SDSC23 in London, Helen McKenzie , Geospatial Advocate, hosted an expert panel with Charlie Dacke FRGS CGeog (Head of Geospatial Technology & Standards at Office for National Statistics ), Jeremy Morley (Chief Geospatial Scientist at Ordnance Survey ) and Adam Dennett (Professor & Head of Department, Bartlett Centre for Advanced Spatial Analysis at 英国伦敦大学学院 ), talking about Spatial Data Science careers. Listen in for more insight on the data skills gap as they discuss this talent hiring & retention problem in spatial.
Learn more in A Go-to Guide for Hiring Spatial Data Scientists
For in-depth insights and examples on navigating candidate challenges, download our comprehensive Go-to Guide For Hiring Spatial Data Scientists to harness the benefits of spatial data science for your organization.
Want to meet up with other spatial data science hiring professionals or recruits? Come along to the Spatial Data Science Conference or sign up to a Spatial Data Science Bootcamp today!?