how to become a Data scientist (2024 Guide)

Data Science Cover Letter Templates and Examples

BrainStation’s Data Scientist career guide can help you take the first steps toward a lucrative career in data science. Read on for templates and examples of cover letters for data science jobs.

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Data science cover letters outline a job applicant’s skills and qualifications when applying for a Data Scientist job. The cover letter creates context around your resume and gives employers a better sense of what you can bring to their company.

A well-written data science cover letter can help you stand out from other job seekers, giving Hiring Managers insight into your personality and how you will fit in with their company. The cover letter is a chance to address a company’s needs and show them that you have the necessary skills to provide a solution.

Data Science Cover Letters – a Step-by-Step Guide

Consider these steps as you prepare to write a data science cover letter:

  1. Start with a strong introduction that grabs the reader’s interest
  2. Highlight your most relevant skills and experiences as it relates to the position
  3. Describe notable achievements and accomplishments
  4. Show enthusiasm for the company and explain why you are applying
  5. End the letter professionally and encourage the Hiring Manager to contact you

There are also several best practices to follow when writing a data science cover letter:

  • Include technical and soft skills. Share accomplishments and work experience that showcase your technical ability, as well as your critical thinking, problem-solving, and other soft skills. If you don’t have as much related job experience, highlight different data science projects you have completed and the skills you gained.
  • Keep it short and focused. Cover letters should be one-page maximum or around 250-400 words. Only include information that is relevant to the role you are applying for.
  • Tailor your cover letter. Review the company’s website, annual report, and/or social media. This will give you a better sense of their goals or needs. In your cover letter, focus on how you can help them achieve their goals. By mentioning specifics about their company, such as current projects they are working on, it shows that you are truly interested and invested in their company.
  • Quantify your accomplishments. Include metrics and measurable evidence of your success as a Data Scientist. By backing up your accomplishments with tangible results, employers can clearly see the value you can bring.
  • Edit and proofread. Check for spelling, grammar, or typographical errors. Communication skills are essential for Data Scientists, and the cover letter is an important first display of these skills.

Step 1Getting Started – What Is the Purpose of the Cover Letter?

A data science cover letter highlights your training and education, as well as your experience collecting, interpreting, and using data. Cover letters highlight the most compelling and relevant parts of your resume.

The cover letter also tells your story as a Data Scientist and describes the unique qualities you can bring to a company. If you are new to data science or recently switched industries, the cover letter can be a place to explain your journey and emphasize your transferable skills.

As you write your data science cover letter, some questions to consider are:

  • What data science projects have you worked on?
  • How can your skills help the company?
  • Why are you applying for this position?
  • What data science work or accomplishments are you most proud of?

Step 2How to Create an Outline for a Data Scientist Cover Letter

To create a well-organized data science cover letter, you can follow this general outline:

  1. Heading, including your name and contact information
  2. Date
  3. The Hiring Manager’s name and title, and the company’s name and address
  4. Greeting
  5. Brief introduction
  6. Showcase your qualifications and skills
  7. Discuss your recent work or projects
  8. Explain why you are applying to this position and how you can add value
  9. Encourage the employer to contact you
  10. Closing

Step 3What to Include in Your Data Science Cover Letter?

When you write your data science cover letter, make sure to include your most relevant experience and skills. In addition, connect your accomplishments to the job requirements. Your cover letter should not repeat your resume, but it can highlight the most significant points and add context around your skills.

While each cover letter should be customized for the job and company you are applying to, there are common elements to include in all cover letters.

  • Heading: The heading consists of basic information, including your name and contact information. You can also include a link to your website or GitHub.
  • Greeting: include a personalized salutation. Avoid using generic terms, such as “To Whom It May Concern”. Look up the Hiring Manager’s name to create a more impactful greeting.
  • Introduction: Start with a strong introduction that highlights your strongest attributes and why you are the best person for the specific position. Interest the Hiring Manager so they will be eager to continue reading.
  • Relevant skills and qualifications: Share information about your education or training, as well as your technical and soft skills. Highlight skills that match the requirements of the job description.
  • Data science experience: Discuss the responsibilities and duties of your current or previous jobs. Share relevant data science projects that you have worked on. Quantify your successes where possible to show the employer the impact of your work as a Data Scientist.
  • Reasons for applying: Explain why being a Data Scientist for that particular company excites you. Emphasize how you can add value and why you would be an asset to their team.
  • Closing: Include a call to action for them to further engage with you. Be gracious in your closing and thank the employer for their time.

Data Scientist Cover Letter Examples

There are many different ways you can write your Data Scientist cover letter. These are some examples to help get you started.

Data Science Cover Letter Example #1

Hello John Doe,

As a recent Bachelor of Computer Science graduate, I have spent the past several years immersing myself in big data and machine learning. I’m excited to bring my expertise to XYZ Company in the role of a Data Scientist.

I have experience in data visualization and developing workflows to compare diverse data sources. I am currently a Data Science Intern at 123 Technologies. I help forecast sales for our clients with a 98% accuracy rate. I work and collaborate cross-functionally with our various departments. I have strong communication skills and experience in explaining technical topics to a general audience.

With my background in managing large data sets and visualizing information, I can help XYZ Company achieve its goal of expanding into new markets. I have been following XYZ Company’s work for a long time, and I admire the range of projects you do across industries.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I have attached my resume with my application. Please feel free to contact me at 555-555-5555 or me@mydatasciencewebsite.com. I hope to hear from you soon.

Thank you, [Name]

Data Science Cover Letter Example #2

Dear Jane Doe,

As XYZ Company looks to grow its operations throughout North America, my experience in data modeling and visualization, as well as my background in programming, would make a great fit for the Data Scientist position.

I am passionate about statistics and analytics, which led me to pursue a Bachelor of Computer Science, followed by a Master of Data Science and Analytics. I recently completed an internship at 123 Media as a Data Analyst, where I was responsible for analyzing data to drive optimization and improvements of products. I learned valuable critical thinking and problem-solving skills that would make me a great addition to the XYZ Company team.

I have extensive experience in Java, Python, and R, as well as Tableau, PowerBI, and Infogram. As a passionate Data Scientist, I have the experience needed to help XYZ Company grow. I am dedicated to continuously learning and enhancing my skills. I admire XYZ Company’s dedication to data-informed product building, and I would be thrilled to join the team. I have attached my resume, which further outlines my education and experiences.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. I appreciate your time and consideration, and I hope to hear from you soon.

Sincerely, [Name]