How to Get a Job as a Statistician

Statisticians are needed in many industries.

If you enjoy working with numbers, a career in statistics may be an excellent fit. Statisticians use statistics to collect, process and interpret data. Different industries use data to solve problems. The pharmaceutical industry, for example, use statisticians to create thorough data collection practices, which ensures the research is accurate. Business industries also use statisticians to identify consumer trends and assist in product development. The path to become a statistician is challenging; the job, however, can be rewarding.

Instructions

1. Earn a master’s degree. Most statistics positions require at least a master’s degree in either statistics or applied mathematics, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

2. Become an intern. Working in an internship allows future statisticians to gain job experience. You will also gain professional contacts who can provide job leads, mentorship or written recommendations.

3. Develop communication skills. Statisticians need the skills to communicate effectively. Statisticians often need to clearly communicate with laypeople and professionals who don’t have a mathematics background.

4. Join a trade association. Trade associations such as the American Statistical Association provide networking and educational opportunities. They also provide job databases that can assist in your job search.

5. Visit your college’s career office or career day. Recruiters often visit college campuses to find new talent for their companies. Your college’s career office may also help you with resumes and interview skills.

6. Contact recruiters. Many companies allow job seekers to contact companies directly. Call companies and ask for the human resources department for more information. Alternatively, many companies list recruitment information on their websites under career information.

7. Enter your resume into a job database. The Internet has several career databases such as Monster.com and CareerBuilder.com that allow you to post and distribute your resume.

Tips & Warnings

• If you’re in high school, take advanced mathematics courses. This will prepare you for the courses required to earn a degree in mathematics or statistics.

• The BLS expects the demand for statisticians to rise as much as 13 percent by 2018. In 2008, statisticians earned a median of $72,610.

• Though many jobs in the private sector require a master’s degree, the federal government hires individuals with a bachelor’s degree, according to the BLS. An advanced degree is recommended for those who wish to advance in the professions.

• Statisticians work in several industries such as research, business, psychology, pharmaceuticals and public health. College courses in subjects such as business, biology and psychology can address specific industry may increase your chances of getting a job in that industry.

References

• American Statistical Association; Career in Statistics; How Do I Become a Statistician?
• Bureau of Labor Statistics; Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition; Statistician
• M.B.A. Today: Statistician Career