Data Analyst vs. Devops Engineer: What Are the Differences?

Data analysts and DevOps engineers are two important roles in the tech industry. Both positions require a high level of technical skills and knowledge. However, there are several key differences between the two roles. In this article, we discuss the similarities and differences between data analysts and DevOps engineers, and we provide helpful tips for those interested in pursuing a career in either field.

What is a Data Analyst?

Data Analysts collect, organize and study data to help businesses make better decisions. They use their findings to improve processes, products and services. Data Analysts typically work in a business’s IT department and use software to analyze data sets. They use their findings to create reports and presentations that explain their conclusions in a way that non-technical staff can understand. Data Analysts may also be responsible for developing new ways to collect data, such as surveys or questionnaires. They may also be involved in training staff on how to use data analysis tools and techniques.

What is a Devops Engineer?

Devops Engineers are responsible for the smooth and efficient running of computer systems by writing code, automating processes and monitoring performance. They work in collaboration with software developers, system operators and other IT professionals to ensure that systems are up to date and can handle increasing demands. Devops Engineers often specialize in a particular area, such as cloud computing or network security. They use their technical skills to automate tasks, write code to improve system performance and monitor systems to identify issues. Devops Engineers work in a variety of industries, including information technology, healthcare and finance.

Data Analyst vs. Devops Engineer

Here are the main differences between a data analyst and a devops engineer.

Job Duties

Data analysts and devops engineers share some job duties, such as researching user needs, evaluating data sources and creating solutions. However, their other job responsibilities tend to differ because of the different types of environments that they typically manage. For example, data analysts usually focus on a specific department or group of employees, such as IT. Their job is to understand the needs of that particular group and create solutions for them.

Devops engineers work across many departments in an organization, such as IT and operations, to solve problems for every team that uses technology. They often work on projects with teams to automate processes and help everyone within the organization use technology more efficiently.

Job Requirements

Data analysts typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics or another related field. They might also pursue a master’s degree in business administration with a focus on data analytics. Data analysts should be proficient in using Excel and other statistical software programs to manipulate data. They might also use programming languages like SQL to query databases and uncover trends.

DevOps engineers often have a background in computer science or engineering. They should be proficient in coding languages like Java, Python and Ruby. DevOps engineers should also be familiar with automation tools like Puppet, Chef and Ansible. These tools help them automate tasks so they can focus on more strategic projects. In addition to their technical skills, DevOps engineers should also have strong communication and problem-solving abilities.

Work Environment

Data analysts typically work in an office setting, but they may also travel to meet with clients. They spend most of their time sitting at a desk and using a computer. DevOps engineers usually work in an office or data center environment where they can access the servers that store the company’s data. Their job requires them to be on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so they must have a flexible schedule.

Skills

Both data analysts and DevOps engineers need to have strong analytical skills. Data analysts use their analytical skills to examine data sets, identify trends and develop insights that can help inform business decisions. DevOps engineers use their analytical skills to understand the needs of different departments within a company and how they can best utilize technology to meet those needs.

Both data analysts and DevOps engineers need to be proficient in using various software programs. Data analysts use software programs to clean and organize data sets, while DevOps engineers use software programs to automate tasks and manage code repositories.

Data analysts typically need to have strong communication skills so that they can effectively share their findings with others. DevOps engineers also need to have strong communication skills so that they can collaborate with other members of their team and explain technical concepts to non-technical staff.

Salary

Data analysts earn an average salary of $75,765 per year, while DevOps engineers earn an average salary of $114,958 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the size of the company, the location of the job and the level of experience the employee has.