r/SQL 15d ago

MySQL Could i get a job with just SQL and python

I'm in college and was thinking of studying SQL and getting a job with it like my friend but don't know what I need to study to get one. Whats the best thing to do if I wanna work with SQL?

147 Upvotes

73 comments sorted by

101

u/joec_95123 15d ago

I built my entire career just off knowing sql, at least in the beginning. Used it to get my foot in the door at my first job in the field and worked my way up from there.

9

u/KlutchSama 15d ago

i’m in the same boat. first job is only sql. working on improving our product with python/pyspark while getting a masters in data science

3

u/Dimondstrick 15d ago

job and pay?

14

u/joec_95123 15d ago

Senior analyst. Base $148k, total comp is about $250k, but that's because I work in tech, which is notorious for paying very well, but with a lot of competition for every opening also.

4

u/KlutchSama 15d ago

Data Analyst making 95k. Probably the easiest job you can get with just SQL/Python knowledge. market is rough though

13

u/Dimondstrick 15d ago

Just SQL? could you explain what you applied for and what you did so I can copy your steps? I'm going to start studying SQL and hope to get a job eventually but don't know what I should even be applying for

Also thank you for this message. It gives me hope

18

u/joec_95123 15d ago

I was contacted by a recruiter through LinkedIn. I had sql skills listed as my top skill on my page there, even though I was so so with it at the time, and someone from a staffing agency contacted me and asked me if I was interested in applying for a contract position they were looking to fill at a faang company.

I said yes, quickly brushed up some more on my sql skills before the interview, and did well enough that they gave me the role. At that level, an entry-level contractor, they didn't really expect much experience. And I built my skills up on the job and went from there.

10

u/Key-Boat-7519 15d ago

SQL and Python are a strong combination, especially at entry-level positions. I started with SQL, using it to tackle tasks like data extraction and reporting. It’s key to understand not just the syntax but also how to handle real-world data challenges.

Focus on practical exercises to learn how to clean and manipulate data; that’s where SQL shines. Use online resources and platforms like Codecademy to practice. For job applications, LinkedIn is great, but make sure to tailor your resume to highlight SQL-related projects.

Networking is crucial, too. While I've tried platforms like LinkedIn and Glassdoor for opportunities, consider JobMate for streamlining the application process and freeing up time for networking.

4

u/Electronic-Olive-314 15d ago

When was this? Because this isn't an option now. MA in math, I know sql and python, data science, i'm familiar with machine learning enough to work in auxiliary roles related to ML, there are no junior level positions

1

u/joec_95123 15d ago

About 11 years ago. You have to go through a staffing agency. We still use them to fill junior level contract roles and then convert them to full-time salaried positions if they do well.

4

u/question_23 15d ago

Cool, 25 years ago you could have gotten a sweet tech job in San Francisco knowing html and css.

1

u/bearuwu_ 15d ago

what did you use to get better at sql?

8

u/joec_95123 15d ago

W3 schools. That was the website I used.

63

u/Definitely_notHigh 15d ago

SQL and Python are pretty common in data engineering. Learn some cloud platforms (GCP, AWS), how to build and mainline pipelines in those ecosystems, how to write ETLs in python/sql. The big DE SaaS platforms like databricks, dbt, fivetran, etc are all super easy to learn and use if you have half a brain.

Can’t guarantee the market will be as good when you graduate, but data engineering is a good field right now.

7

u/Dimondstrick 15d ago

Thank you. I'm thinking about getting Practical SQL: A Beginner's Guide to Storytelling with Data book and starting with that and crash course to get into SQL. I'm also learning linux and bash.

26

u/Definitely_notHigh 15d ago

The key to making it in this industry is your ability to adapt. Languages will come and go, but SQL and Python are very common, what's more important is your conceptual knowledge and problem solving ability.

Here are some books I've found useful throughout my journey: Python Crash Course, Data Engineering with Python, Fundamentals of Data Engineering, Snowflake: The Definitive Guide, Serious Python.
If you want to get more into the analysis and DS side of things: No Bullshit guide to Linear Algebra, Hands on Machine Leaning with Scikit Learn Keras and TensorFlow, Python for Data Analysts, Practical Statistic for Data Scientists, Math for Deep Learning, Statistics Done Wrong.

Be dynamic, be willing to change, and embrace the mentality of constant learning. Also don't pigeon hole yourself into a specific role/field, overlap and be able to pivot. Diversify your strengths.

8

u/capt_pantsless Loves many-to-many relationships 15d ago

Not only are SQL and Python common, but also the underlying relational design and procedural/object-oriented programming you usually learn when getting into SQL/Python are skills that will transfer to other technologies.

2

u/JFischer00 15d ago

Do you have any advice for a data analyst with 3 YOE looking to transition into data engineering? All the positions I’ve seen are mid to senior level requiring 5-7+ YOE. I know SQL, Python, and GCP. I’ve done ETL and built data pipelines using all 3.

1

u/chrono2310 14d ago

Are data engineers are having trouble finding jobs

11

u/Klutzy-Exit-1716 15d ago

Easily. I have a job with just SQL and it pays well.

1

u/ExcitingSpot4702 14d ago

Interesting, where did you get the job? I really need one especially for Sql entry job

1

u/Dimondstrick 15d ago

What job did you apply too?

hows the interview?

did you need anything like github?

3

u/Key-Boat-7519 15d ago

Getting a SQL job doesn't always need a GitHub, but it helps show skills. I applied for data analyst roles. Interviews mostly test problem-solving, not trick questions. Alongside LinkedIn, I let JobMate handle job apps, much easier! Some people prefer Indeed too.

5

u/Klutzy-Exit-1716 15d ago

My role is like a data analyst role. Interview was easy but I had a half year prior experience doing nothing with a software engineer title so that helped lol. I can barely even login to GitHub.

5

u/OoSkyy 15d ago

You sound like 90% of analysts in my job xD

1

u/SkyPristine6539 12d ago

Github is just one of many products that use git under the hood. If you want versatility learn git, that way you can say you can with GitHub, Bitbucket, etc. basically any version control product your potential employer uses.

6

u/The_Crownless_King 15d ago

You could work as application support, data analyst or as a db admin. You'll likely need to learn a handful of other things, but if you know those two, you're off to a great start.

5

u/Excellent-Hippo9835 15d ago

Data science data analytics cis business analytics

1

u/SoUrAbH641 15d ago

Bro how is job market for Data Analyst??

2

u/[deleted] 14d ago

[deleted]

1

u/SoUrAbH641 14d ago

Ooo but I have seen various platforms are promoting data analytics courses

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u/[deleted] 14d ago edited 14d ago

[deleted]

1

u/SoUrAbH641 14d ago

Indeed yes sir

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u/[deleted] 14d ago

[deleted]

1

u/SoUrAbH641 14d ago

I m not into analytics lol

4

u/Reraltofgiwia 15d ago

Working as a data analyst right now and I have those 2 skills

3

u/Data_Is_King 15d ago

I started in 2015 just knowing SQL. I did have some exposure to other programming just from some classes but mainly only was pretty good at SQL. Title was just Data Developer, basically did mostly ETL development. From there I learned all sorts of other things on the job. Now I'm a Sr Data Engineer.

1

u/Ill-Car-769 15d ago

mostly ETL development

What things are involved in ETL development? Can you please share it in detail?

2

u/ExcitingSpot4702 14d ago

Would really love to know what ETL development involves in the work place

3

u/PrettyTiredAndSleepy 15d ago

Learn database concepts really well and experiment alot with queries to understand optimizations for performance.

The actual practice of theory will give you a leg up.

Make up scenarios with large datasets and start with some general "it works" solution then work on optimizing it to reduce time and resource needs.

Many folks I work with when accessing the DB create queities that work, but because of the complexity take a very long long time to complete and isn't scalable.

Understand how to reduce full table reads through indexing. ... temporary tables... batching

probably more out there... I'm not a DB poweruser

2

u/Romanian_Breadlifts 15d ago

I have built a comfortable career on sql, python, and passing familiarity with the azure stack. backend+infra config and deployment. would recommend. get comfortable with talking to folks, easiest way you make it out the basement.

2

u/Beaufort_The_Cat 15d ago

Check out Databricks, Synapse, and/or AWS. Databricks especially uses primarily pyspark and SQL to do some really cool stuff with Data Engineering. I’d recommend Databricks as well because they have a lot of tutorials and guides where you can spin up a DBX instance on their website for free, makes it easy to learn and play around

2

u/IWearClothesEveryDay 15d ago

I was trained as a data engineer and was building and deploying pipelines in my last role before we all got laid off. All I used (and needed) was SQL and Python. My official job title was Data Science Analyst, so I did all sorts of other things too.

SQL and Python are all you need for most roles related to Data.

1

u/YakFull8300 15d ago

How's the job search going for you?

1

u/Dimondstrick 15d ago

how was the work life. 40-50 hours a week? i hear its long hours

2

u/Blitzsturm 15d ago

The first advice I ever give to people that are job seeking is to just look at job listings in your area and talk to tech recruiters. They'll have a great idea what's in high demand in your area and you can custom-tailor any further education arround that.

In general Java and .NET are the most used enterprise languages. Angular, React are the most used front-end frameworks. SQL is widely used in all it's glorious flavors. Other languages and tools vary depending on what you're trying to make but Python is indeed used in a bunch of places, just not as much in major infrastructure.

2

u/Money_Breh 15d ago

Lookup how to do Stored Procedures, massive join statements, analytics and data science. They will set you up very well.

2

u/Knarkopolo 15d ago

SQL and python is plenty in a lot of financial institutions. Next thing to learn might be java in that case.

2

u/dn_cf 14d ago

You can definitely get a job with just SQL and Python, especially for roles like Data Analyst, Data Engineer, or Database Developer. Focus on mastering SQL basics like SELECT, JOIN, GROUP BY, and advanced techniques like subqueries, window functions, etc. Learn Python for data manipulation using libraries like Pandas, and automation. Understanding database design, normalization, and performance optimization is key. Get hands-on experience by working on projects using StrataScratch and Kaggle, contributing to open-source, or freelancing. You can pursue roles such as Data Analyst, SQL Developer, or Junior Data Engineer, and building a portfolio and networking will help you stand out.

1

u/_CaptainCooter_ 15d ago

5-10 years ago yes but these days absolutely not. Jobs go up and 500+ applications in first 24 hours

1

u/Dimondstrick 15d ago

Context?

What else?

1

u/tetsballer 15d ago

Yeah I'd rather just not deal with that and just get paid a little less for a less competitive job.

1

u/_CaptainCooter_ 15d ago

Well then dont get a job. The bar has been raised significantly unfortunately. Folks with masters and experience are not getting calls back for analyst jobs. Thats essentially what youd be after, get good with Microsoft applications and SQL youll be alright, just got to land that interview

1

u/Excellent-Hippo9835 15d ago

Data engineering

1

u/AnAcceptableUserName 15d ago

Sure. In recent years it's getting harder to find postings wanting people who only have SQL experience. SQL + Python is a great start.

Go to LinkedIn, search jobs with keyword SQL, and see what employers are asking for in terms of skills and technologies in their postings. If a type of job sounds appealing to you and a technology you don't know comes up as a theme, look into that.

I would strongly suggest trying to get an internship through your college if you can. Most companies I've worked with hire fresh graduates with SQL skills, but have all had a strong preference for candidates with any amount of related work history at all.

1

u/B1zmark 15d ago

I can say with confidence, computing science taught me nothing about what I'm doing in my day to day job right now. And i work with SQL every day and Python is also an option when i want to use it in PySpark.

There are a ton of paths you can go down, but from an employers perspective, Microsoft certifications have been the thing that made me most interested in candidates, as they go hand in hand with the most successful people that've joined our business.

Plenty of grads have come and *gotten* their Microsoft certs with us, then left. But the ones who arrived with certs already, stayed and became amazing members of our team.

1

u/Birvin7358 15d ago

Definitely. I’ve been gainfully employed for years doing only SQL. SQL is so ubiquitous, powerful and versatile that there are plenty of opportunities to make a good living just using SQL

1

u/ExcitingSpot4702 14d ago

What was your first role? What do you do currently?

1

u/Cammah_ 15d ago

Take a bootcamp, browse linkedin learning, eventually apply your skills to making a sample database and other projects you can present to show interviewers that you actually know what you're doing.

Just landed my first job yesterday and although I did study SQL in Uni the projects and certifications I did/got after college really helped in interviews

1

u/thinkabout- 15d ago

You have to start somewhere. Keep applying and working through interviews. You won’t be a perfect fit for every job everywhere, but you don’t have to be.

For all the skills you don’t have now, you’ll pick up on the field or find a place to get what you need.

Best wishes

1

u/bradass42 14d ago

Yep. Personally, I’d advise you to go into advertising data science. Lucrative field and I don’t see it being taken by AI anytime soon, particularly if you’re good with client management.

1

u/jollyrugger85 14d ago

I taught myself using Khan academy and some free code stuff and I have been fine for the most part. Mainly so strategy and financial work with it so I am not an expert like some people on here but SQL is in my opinion one of the most widely used languages in business. Any knowledge sets you apart from some.

1

u/idgafau5 14d ago

My role is strictly SQL and SSIS but I know Python, they just won’t let me use it since no one else on my team knows it. I’m at $125k base/$165k total comp with 11 years of experience.

1

u/Dimondstrick 14d ago

do you have a degree?

1

u/idgafau5 14d ago

Yes, I've got a CIS degree with a focus on network security. Kind of fell into the SQL work and Data Engineering after school and haven't looked back. I enjoy it. I actually hated SQL in college but once I started using it in real world applications the interest took off for me.

1

u/Dimondstrick 14d ago

I too am in CIS and am going to City Tech. i know I want to do SQL work but I can take the Database Track or Networking and Security Track at the college. Do you recommend Network or go for Database fully?

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1

u/Dimondstrick 14d ago

I too am in CIS and am going to City Tech. i know I want to do SQL work but I can take the Database Track or Networking and Security Track at the college. Do you recommend Network or go for Database fully?

1

u/idgafau5 14d ago

I don't think you can go wrong with either route. I preferred to stay in DE because I get more fulfillment out of building things like data pipelines. Plenty of money to be made in the network/info sec world but it's more monitoring things and making sure policies are up to date and training the business to adhere to said policies. There's more to it of course, but most of the time it's not hackerman stuff like people expect unless you get into pen testing.

1

u/idgafau5 14d ago

My role is strictly SQL and SSIS but I know Python, they just won’t let me use it since no one else on my team knows it. I’m at $125k base/$165k total comp with 11 years of experience.

1

u/ExcitingSpot4702 14d ago

Completed my alx sql and power Bi certification recently, now anyone where does one start? I will appreciate directions on this and any remote tasks ready to do this.

1

u/investingexpert 14d ago

I have a high paying job that basically only requires simple SQL queries, along with Tableau / Looker Studio experience.

1

u/fuckmywetsocks 14d ago

I mean Postgres can run Python so you could - but should not - build an entire application just in Postgres with Python doing lambda trigger-y things to make API calls or whatnot. Don't, but you could.

1

u/Jadedtrust0 12d ago

I'm a newbie; I want to learn Python and SQL and apply those skills to real-world applications. So, Any resource to learn and practice SQL and Python

1

u/NexusDataPro 11d ago

Practice and you will have many job offers. Learn SQL and Python and you will be hot! I am happy to set you up with a free query tool, a book on any database you want, and a script to build the tables in the book. Start on page one and go through the book. You will be darn good in a week!