Not everyone cringes at the idea of math class or reacts with panic to memories of algebra, but for people who love math there are a variety of careers that let them use their skills. Here are some of the top careers that rely on strong math expertise.
Surveyors
If you love numbers and measurements, yet prefer to not always be in an office, you may find that being a surveyor is the job of your dreams. Assignments include determining precise measurements for property boundaries, or measuring data to use for land evaluation, construction, and other purposes. A bachelor's degree is typically required, along with a license to provide surveying services and certified legal documents. Job growth is above average at 11%, with median income at $61,140.
Cost Estimators
Cost estimators are needed in many industries, such as manufacturing or construction. They analyze data to correctly determine the cost of projects or products. Usually, the estimator will choose to specialize in specific products or services. A bachelor's degree is required, though with several years of experience the lack of a degree may be overlooked. Annual median salary is $63,110, and the job growth rate is higher than average at 11%.
Accountant and Auditor
Two of the more popular professions for number crunchers are accountants and auditors. Across all industries, businesses need experts who can prepare tax reports and audit financial records correctly. Long hours may be necessary, as the responsibility for the financial operations of an organization may fall on their shoulders. A bachelor's degree is typically required, with additional credit hours for those who chose to be a Certified Public Accountant. Median salary is $69,350 with a 10% job growth rate.
Operations Research Analyst
Relying on advanced math and analytical skills, Operations Research Analysts use their skills to diagnose, interpret, and report data to assist executives with policy decisions. Duties may include evaluating the time, cost, and logistics of existing or future programs. Most employers choose applicants with master's degrees, though an entry-level position may be attained with a bachelor's degree. Job growth is highly encouraging at a rapid 27%, and a median salary of $81,390 per year.
Mathematician or Statistician
Mathematicians and statisticians are currently enjoying a remarkable job growth rate of 33%. Major industries such as healthcare or business may need to employ these highly trained individuals to work with other professionals, such as scientists or engineers, in cooperative roles that blend statistical methods with data analysis. Most positions require a master's degree in statistics or math. A few entry level jobs may accept bachelor's degrees. Median salary is $84, 760.
Marine Engineers or Naval Architect
Marine engineers and naval architects may not typically come to mind for jobs requiring strong math skills, but exam figures are essential for planning and building water vehicles - i.e. naval careers, tankers, submarines, and even sailboats. Marine engineers oversee the inner workings, such as steering, electrical, and propulsion, while naval architects are responsible for the ship design. Both skill sets are required to get the job done with precision. If this profession floats your boat, you will need at least a bachelor's degree in naval architecture and marine, electrical, or mechanical engineering. Job growth is strong at 12% with a median salary of $90,970.
Actuary
If you love statistics, you may want to be an actuary. Responsible for analyzing the costs of sickness, mortality, disability and other financial uncertainties, actuaries build probability tables to determine estimated amounts of future payouts. Crucial for annual income of $101, 560. A bachelor's degree is required at a minimum, with a series of exams to become certified, and an aggressive job growth rate of approximately 22%.
Economist
From a basic understanding of supply and demand to more complex concepts regarding fiscal policies, an economist researches and analyzes statistical trends in the distribution of goods and services. An entry level position may need only a bachelor's degree to start, but to climb the career ladder, a master's degree or even a doctorate are necessary. Salaries average $102,490 with 6% average job growth.
Nuclear Engineer
Those who like to research principles of nuclear science may enjoy being a nuclear engineer. Like most scientific careers, nuclear engineers use math along with their advanced knowledge of nuclear energy and radioactive waste disposal for medical and industrial purposes. A bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering is required. Job growth in this field is low at 4%, but the annual salary is appealing with a median income of $105,810.
Physicists and Astronomer
If you love math and physics class, and choose stargazing over movie watching, becoming a physicist or astronomer could be the right direction for your career path. A rapid job growth rate of 14%, coupled with a median wage of around $117,220, may encourage you to spend time and money for a Doctorate in Physics or Astronomy. Careers often start as a postdoctoral research positions at universities. However, a bachelor's degree in physics may qualify you for a job with the federal government.
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