Data scientist NOC code
NOC 2021 code, TEER level and Express Entry status for data scientist.
Last reviewed 2026-11-02 · Sources: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Quick answer
The NOC code for data scientist is 21211 (Data scientists), a TEER 1 occupation — it counts as skilled work for Express Entry. It's a high-wage occupation (Level 2): +40 CRS for 12+ months of Canadian work, or 70 for a job offer.
NOC code
21211
TEER 1 · skilled
High-wage
Level 2
+40 work · 70 job offer
Category draws
None
IRCC 2026 lists
What NOC 21211 covers
Data scientists use advanced analytics technologies, including machine learning and predictive modelling, to support the identification of trends, scrape information from unstructured data sources and provide automated recommendations. They are employed by consulting firms, universities, banks and information technology departments in the public and private sectors.
| Unit group | 21211 — Data scientists |
|---|---|
| TEER | TEER 1 — usually requires a university degree |
| Broad category | Natural and applied sciences and related occupations |
Main duties to compare with yours
- Implement cutting-edge techniques and tools in machine learning, deep learning and artificial intelligence to make data analysis more efficient
- Perform large-scale experimentation to identify hidden relationships between variables in large datasets
- Create advanced machine learning algorithms such as regression, simulation, scenario analysis, modeling, clustering, decision trees and neural networks
- Prepare and extract data using programming language
- Implement new statistical, machine learning, or other mathematical methodologies to solve specific business problems
- Visualize data in a way that allows a business to quickly draw conclusions and make decisions
To use NOC 21211 on an Express Entry profile or reference letter, your duties should match the lead statement and most of the main duties. See every duty and the full Express Entry breakdown for NOC 21211 →
Other job titles under NOC 21211
Similar titles in other NOC codes
If your duties don't match NOC 21211, one of these may fit better:
- Aerospace research scientist — NOC 21100 (Physicists and astronomers, TEER 1)
- Climate data processor — NOC 22214 (Technical occupations in geomatics and meteorology, TEER 2)
- Data administrator — NOC 21223 (Database analysts and data administrators, TEER 1)
- Data centre manager — NOC 20012 (Computer and information systems managers, TEER 0)
- Data centre operator — NOC 22220 (Computer network and web technicians, TEER 2)
- Data control clerk — NOC 14111 (Data entry clerks, TEER 4)
- Data custodian — NOC 21223 (Database analysts and data administrators, TEER 1)
- Data dictionary administrator — NOC 21223 (Database analysts and data administrators, TEER 1)
Calculate your CRS score → · All job titles A–Z · High-wage list
Sources: Statistics Canada, NOC 2021 Version 1.0 (example titles and duties); IRCC high-wage occupations and category-based selection lists. Check the official NOC site before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
What is the NOC code for data scientist?+
In NOC 2021, "data scientist" is an example title in unit group 21211 — Data scientists. It is a TEER 1 occupation in the "Natural and applied sciences and related occupations" broad category.
Is data scientist eligible for Express Entry?+
NOC 21211 is TEER 1, which IRCC counts as skilled work experience for the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Canadian Experience Class — provided your actual duties match the NOC description and you meet every other program requirement.
Does data scientist get extra CRS points?+
Yes. NOC 21211 is on IRCC's high-wage list at Level 2. From November 3, 2026, 12+ months of qualifying Canadian work adds 40 CRS points, or a valid job offer is worth 70 (whichever is higher).
Can a data scientist get a category-based Express Entry invitation?+
NOC 21211 isn't on any of IRCC's current category-based selection lists. You can still be invited in general, Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Program rounds.
What if my job title says data scientist but my duties are different?+
IRCC assesses your duties, not your job title. Compare what you actually do with the lead statement and main duties of NOC 21211. If most of them don't match, look at the related occupations below or search the official NOC site.