What is a Mathematician?
Example of Mathematician Job Conduct research in fundamental mathematics or in application of mathematical techniques to science, management, and other fields. Solve problems in various fields using mathematical methods.
Life As a Mathematician: What Do They Do?
- Apply mathematical theories and techniques to the solution of practical problems in business, engineering, the sciences, or other fields.
- Design, analyze, and decipher encryption systems designed to transmit military, political, financial, or law-enforcement-related information in code.
- Disseminate research by writing reports, publishing papers, or presenting at professional conferences.
- Perform computations and apply methods of numerical analysis to data.
- Assemble sets of assumptions and explore the consequences of each set.
- Develop computational methods for solving problems that occur in areas of science and engineering or that come from applications in business or industry.
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What Skills Do You Need to Work as a Mathematician?
These are the skills Mathematicians say are the most useful in their careers:
Mathematics: Using mathematics to solve problems.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Other Mathematician Job Titles
- Nanotechnologist
- Director of Quantitative Research
- Mathematician
- Research Computing Specialist
- Computational Scientist
Job Outlook for Mathematicians
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 3,100 jobs in the United States for Mathematician. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 29% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 900 new jobs for Mathematician by 2026. The BLS estimates 300 yearly job openings in this field.

The states with the most job growth for Mathematician are Idaho, New Jersey, and Virginia. Watch out if you plan on working in Maryland, Washington, or Pennsylvania. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Salary for a Mathematician
Mathematicians make between $57,150 and $160,550 a year.

Mathematicians who work in District of Columbia, Virginia, or Washington, make the highest salaries.
How much do Mathematicians make in different U.S. states?
State | Annual Mean Salary |
---|---|
California | $100,000 |
Colorado | $122,840 |
District of Columbia | $133,870 |
Florida | $87,820 |
Illinois | $103,220 |
Maryland | $115,940 |
Nevada | $79,980 |
New Jersey | $117,060 |
New Mexico | $106,790 |
New York | $84,670 |
Ohio | $86,280 |
Pennsylvania | $76,250 |
Rhode Island | $90,640 |
Virginia | $121,240 |
Washington | $123,380 |
What Tools do Mathematicians Use?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Mathematicians:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- JavaScript
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Outlook
- Web browser software
- Python
- Microsoft Access
- MySQL
- Adobe Systems Adobe Photoshop
- Structured query language SQL
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- SAS
- Linux
- Microsoft Visual Basic
- Extensible markup language XML
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- UNIX
- PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor
How do I Become a Mathematician?
What education or degrees do I need to become a Mathematician?

How many years of work experience do I need?

Where Mathematicians Are Employed

The table below shows the approximate number of Mathematicians employed by various industries.

References:
Image Credit: Wallpoper via Public domain
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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