Machine Learning Engineer vs Data Scientist

Fitriyani    October 10, 2023    Technology   

Choosing a career path or making a career change can be a daunting task. With the rise of big data, the opportunities in the data science field have rapidly expanded, leading to the creation of specialized roles such as Machine Learning Engineer and Data Scientist.

While these roles may seem similar at first glance, there are key differences that might make one a better fit for you than the other. This article will explore these differences to help you decide which role is right for you.

What is a Machine Learning Engineer?

Machine Learning Engineers are computer programmers, but their focus goes beyond specifically programming machines to perform specific tasks. They create programs that will enable machines to take actions without being specifically directed to perform those tasks. In essence, Machine Learning Engineers are tasked with developing AI systems that can learn and apply knowledge.

These engineers work on complex algorithms that are used to help systems (like computers or mobile applications) learn from data and make predictions or decisions without being specifically programmed to do so. Machine Learning Engineers need to be proficient in several programming languages such as Python, Java, and Scala, and they need to have a solid understanding of software development methodologies.

Tasks that a Machine Learning Engineer might tackle include:

• Developing machine learning models.

• Using predictive modeling to increase and optimize customer experiences, revenue generation, ad targeting, and other business outcomes.

• Improving data quality and reliability.

• Collaborating with data scientists to build new data models.

What is a Data Scientist?

Data Scientists, on the other hand, are analytical experts who utilize their skills in both technology and social science to find trends and manage data. They use industry knowledge, contextual understanding, skepticism of existing assumptions, and related skills to uncover solutions to business challenges.

A Data Scientist’s role involves designing and constructing new processes for data modeling and production using prototypes, algorithms, predictive models, and custom analysis. They need to be proficient in programming languages like Python and R, and they need to have a strong understanding of statistics.

Tasks that a Data Scientist might tackle include:

• Collecting large amounts of messy data and transform it into a more usable format.

• Solving complex business problems and provide insight through data analysis.

• Using machine learning and predictive modeling to increase and optimize customer experiences, revenue generation, and other business outcomes.

• Collaborating with different functional teams to implement models and monitor outcomes.

Key Differences Between Machine Learning Engineers and Data Scientists

While there is some overlap between the roles of Machine Learning Engineers and Data Scientists, there are several key differences.

One of the main differences is their main focus. Machine Learning Engineers focus on building applications and systems that learn from data and improve over time without manual intervention. Data Scientists, on the other hand, are more focused on analyzing data, providing business insights, and building data-driven strategies.

In terms of technical skills, Machine Learning Engineers need to have a stronger background in computer science and programming. They need to understand algorithms, data structures, and computation theory. Data Scientists, however, need to have a strong background in statistics and math. They need to understand hypothesis testing, probability theory, and statistical modeling.

Which Role is Right for You?

Deciding whether to become a Machine Learning Engineer or a Data Scientist largely depends on your interests and your background.

If you are more interested in coding and developing AI systems, and you have a strong background in computer science and programming, then a role as a Machine Learning Engineer might be a good fit for you.

If you are more interested in analyzing data, discovering insights, and using data to solve business problems, and you have a strong background in statistics and mathematics, then a role as a Data Scientist might be a good fit for you.

In both roles, you will be working with big data and will need to have strong problem-solving skills. Both roles also offer attractive salaries and job prospects, so it’s really a matter of where your interests and skills lie.

The good news is that the field of data science is broad and there is a lot of crossover between the two roles. So, you can always gain additional skills and move from one role to the other if you find that one is a better fit for you.