How to Hire a Data Analyst (in Perth)

Written By Douglas Robertson

The data landscape has changed dramatically over the past decade. And it is still evolving.

Once, Excel wizards ruled the world.

Now, modern Data Analysts are armed with SQL, Python, and BI tools like Power BI with modern reinforcements coming in the form of cloud platforms like Snowflake and Databricks.

But how do we go about finding one of these elusive Data Analysts in Perth?

Let’s break it down.

1. First, Define the Role

Before we get ahead of ourselves.

What actually is a Data Analyst?

Confession; as a specialist in data & analytics recruitment, even I don't know.

Why? Because it is extremely broad and given the fast-moving industry, requirements are fluid.

The Data Analyst is the broadest data title and could encompass:

  • Building dashboards and reports

  • Writing SQL queries and working with databases

  • Data wrangling and automation (Python, R, etc.)

  • Statistical analysis and forecasting

  • Engaging with business stakeholders

Common role variations:

  • Business Intelligence Analyst – More reporting-heavy

  • Marketing Analyst – Specialises in campaign and customer data

  • Financial Analyst – Focuses on FP&A and revenue insights

  • Reporting Analyst – Once again more business intelligence heavy.

Typical team structure:

  • Reports to: Head of Data, CFO, Data Analytics Lead or Operations Manager

  • Collaborates with: Data Engineers, Data Scientists and Business Stakeholders

Summary:

Companies starting on their data journey may be inclined to slap the 'Data Analyst' title on their position brief however the lack of clarity can be damaging.

Sure, use the title...

But only do so with clear outcomes, skills and competencies mapped.

2. What Skills Should You Look For?

Must-have technical competencies:

  • SQL (advanced)

  • Data visualisation (Power BI, Tableau)

  • Excel (still essential)

  • Business acumen

Additional skills that set them apart:

  • Python or R for automation and analytics

  • Statistical analysis and forecasting

  • Cloud experience (Azure, Snowflake, AWS)

  • Data governance and modelling

  • Domain knowledge of ETL and automation tools e.g. Alteryx, KNIME, Power Automate

Perth-specific tools:

  • Power BI – Most common BI tool in WA

  • SQL Server/Azure – Dominant cloud stack in mining and finance

  • Snowflake – Growing, but still niche

  • Excel – Still everywhere, no escaping it

Forget certifications:

  • Get applicants to share a completed dashboard or to do one as part of the interview process (with dummy data of course). And never forget Excel - see below.

3. Perth Market Insights

Current market trends:

  • High demand across mining, finance, insurance and government

  • Growing reliance on cloud tools, but Excel and SQL are core foundations

  • Mining sector preference for in-office or hybrid analysts

LinkedIn Insights (January 2025):

  • Around 800 Data Analysts listed in Perth

  • Biggest hirers include Rio Tinto and Western Power

Salary Ranges (2025):

  • Junior (1-3 years): $70,000 - $95,000 + super

  • Mid-level (3-5 years): $95,000 - $120,000 + super

  • Senior (5+ years): $120,000 - $140,000 + super

Contract Rates:

  • Mid-level: $500 - $700 per day

  • Senior: $70 - $900 per day

  • Lead/Principal: $900 - $1,000 per day

Which company hires the most Data Engineers in Perth? LinkedIn reports Western Power.

Top Five Companies with individuals who list 'Data Analyst' as their job on LinkedIn. Percentages reflect year-over-year changes.

4. The Hiring Process That Works

I won't deep-dive into the recommended hiring process as that is covered in this article here:

Recommendation is to follow the same trend but flex for a Data Analyst requirements:

-> Screen Interview

-> Technical Interview (typically a dashboard challenge using anonymised company data)

-> Cultural Interview

-> References & Due Diligences

For interview resources, view our Interview Resources GitHub repository here.

5. Attracting the Best Talent

Where to find them?

  • LinkedIn – Around 800 Data Analysts in Perth publicly on LinkedIn but over 6,000 have individuals have 'Power BI' listed as a skill which makes recruiting challenging.

  • Meetups and events – There are three main meetups for data professionlas in Perth; Industry Inner Join, Microsoft Data, Analytics, AI, and Power Platform User Group and the Perth Power BI and Modern Excel User Group.

  • Referrals – The best source of talent and lowest risk - ask your team and bring in someone trusted!

  • Recruiters – Helps tap into passive talent (70% of the market) e.g. DR Analytics Recruitment

  • Job ads – Attracts active talent, but expect a high volume of underqualified applicants

Many skilled candidates aren’t actively applying – they’re already working.

You need to go to them.

6. Common Hiring Mistakes

Pitfalls to avoid:

  • If it's your first data hire, culture is incredibly important and strong foundations

  • Hiring based on tools, not core skills

  • Rushing the process (or dragging it out too long)

  • Overlooking industry-specific experience in mining, finance or other key sectors

Red flags in interviews:

  • Weak SQL ability despite listing it on their resume

  • Struggles to explain past projects clearly

  • No experience with data cleaning and preparation

  • Over-reliance on dashboards without analytical depth

7. Wrapping It Up

Hiring a Data Analyst in Perth isn’t as simple as posting a job ad and hoping for the best.

I mean you can do that, but expect 500+ applicants!

To find top talent:

  • Define the role clearly

  • Prioritise SQL, business impact, and communication skills

  • Move quickly – good analysts get snapped up fast

  • Tap into passive talent, not just applicants

If you’re struggling to find the right analyst, let’s talk. We specialise in finding the best data professionals, so you don’t have to sift through 500 resumes.

Website: www.analyticsrecruitment.com.au

Email: douglas@analyticsrecruitment.com.au

Mobile: 0430 846 876

Douglas Robertson
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How to Hire a Data Engineer (in Perth)