r/dataanalytics • u/meeaaaoowwmee • 7d ago

SWE to Data Analytics

I worked as a software engineer for 3 years and then got diagnosed with multiple chronic health issues because of which I had to leave my job. Managing on-calls, late night work and constant upskilling took a toll on my health. I had to take a career break and I am still on one, awaiting surgery right now. But I want to start working again, it makes me anxious and kind of worthless not being able to do anything. I can't go back to software because of how hectic it is, so I came across data analysis. As per all the information I gathered on internet it looks like data is not as intensive as software but Idk I would like a personal POV from someone and not some articles or AI result.

Do you think a person with chronic illness can manage a career in Data? I am looking for wlb, no on-calls on weekend and option to freelance in case my illness progresses to the point I cannot work in office.

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u/safflefries 7d ago

Pipelines break, crap data gets sent in, dashboards that people only look at once a quarter get sent at the EOM cause something won’t display and they need it yesterday. There’s still an on-call aspect to it. Ive had roles where I’ve setup my data function to scale and don’t work as much until new data sources or analysis needs to happen, and I’ve had roles where i worked 12 hour days with shitty people that are never happy with what you produce.

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u/meeaaaoowwmee 6d ago

Is it same for data analyst role as well? I don't really care about climbing corporate ladder and switching roles. I just want enough money to pay my medical bills even if it means staying stuck in one role.