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What does a Data Modeler do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

A data modeler is responsible for designing and creating models that are used to store data. They work with databases and software to create models that can be used to store data in a way that is efficient and easy to access.

Data Modeler job duties include:

  • Work with business and technical teams to understand data requirements and identify data sources
  • Analyze data sources and recommend strategies for integrating disparate data
  • Design logical and physical data models to represent business entities and relationships
  • Document data model designs using industry standard notation
  • Generate database schemas based on approved data models
  • Populate databases with test data and troubleshoot data integrity issues
  • Perform capacity planning to support anticipated growth
  • Monitor database performance and recommend improvements
  • Manage changes to the data model through the software development life cycle

Data Modeler Job Requirements

A Data Modeler is responsible for designing and creating data models. They work with stakeholders to understand the data requirements and create models that meet those requirements. Data Modelers need a strong understanding of database design principles and techniques. They should have experience working with different types of databases and data modeling tools. A bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field is typically required. Some employers may require certification in data modeling.

Data Modeler Skills

  • Data Modeling
  • Database design
  • Data analysis
  • Data mining
  • Data warehousing
  • SQL
  • PL/SQL
  • Erwin
  • Rational Rose
  • Oracle
  • MySQL

Related: Top Data Modeler Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Data Modeler

To become a Data Modeler, one must first understand what data is and how it is used. Data is defined as information that can be processed by a computer. It is the raw material from which information is derived. There are three types of data: structured, unstructured, and semi-structured. Structured data is data that is organized into a predefined format, such as a database table. Unstructured data is data that does not have a predefined format, such as text documents or images. Semi-structured data is data that has a predefined format but also includes some unstructured data, such as XML files.

Once you understand what data is, you need to learn how to model it. Data modeling is the process of designing a data structure to store and manipulate data. There are three types of models: conceptual, logical, and physical. Conceptual models are high-level designs that show the relationships between entities, such as customer and order. Logical models are more detailed designs that show the attributes of each entity and the relationships between them. Physical models are even more detailed designs that show how the data will be stored in a database.

To become a Data Modeler, you need to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills. You must be able to think abstractly and design complex systems. You also need to be proficient in at least one database management system (DBMS), such as Oracle, SQL Server, or MySQL. In addition, it is helpful to have experience with data mining and warehousing tools, such as SAS or Teradata.

Related: Data Modeler Resume Example

Related: Data Modeler Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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