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Demographic/Population Analyst, Population Specialist, Social Scientist
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:
| Starting | $36.18 |
|---|---|
| Overall | $44.68 |
| Top | $49.16 |
Interest in synthesizing information to extend knowledge on the mathematical basis of statistics, and to develop statistical methodologies
Interest in applying statistical theory and methods to provide information in scientific and other fields such as biological and agricultural sciences, business and economics, physical sciences and engineering, and the social sciences
Interest in consulting to advise on the applications of statistical methods and analyses
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
Demographers study to determine the causes and consequences of changes in the characteristics of human populations. Much of a demographer's work involves:
In government and planning organizations, demographic statistics and projections are used to plan for and respond to population changes in an informed and reasonable manner. Changing demographics have far-reaching implications in many areas, including education, health and social programs. Therefore, identifying, tracking and predicting population trends is vital to organizations involved in activities such as drafting social and economic policy, planning city services and infrastructure, and developing public health, education and labour force strategies.
In business and industry, analysis of demographic data improves a company's understanding of:
Demographers in applied business settings often take on th e role of market analysts. They plan, conduct research, write technical reports and present their findings to management and clients.
Demographers generally work standard hours in an office environment but may work overtime to meet project deadlines. Some travel may be required to collect data or conduct surveys.
Demographers need to possess:
Demographers should enjoy synthesizing data, applying demographic and statistical theories and methods, and advising others regarding statistical methodology and analytical techniques.
Most demographers have a university degree in sociology, economics, geography or statistics, and experience in applying statistical theories and techniques. Traditionally, a master's degree in demography, or in economics or sociology with a demography major, plus a background in statistics or mathematics has been the preferred qualification. However, graduates of marketing programs have begun to move into the field. The influence of computers in demography has also created job opportunities for computer science majors. Experience with statistical analytical programs, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) programs or fluency in a second language can be a definite asset.
The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.
For a broad list of programs and courses that may be related to this occupation try searching using keywords.
There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta.
Demographers are employed by:
Demographers employed in private industry often have other duties that are not strictly demographic in nature. Those employed in universities may teach courses outside the field of population and carry out population-related research. Some demographers operate their own consulting businesses.
Advancement often requires a master's or doctoral degree.
Demographers are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 2161: Mathematicians, Statisticians and Actuaries. In Alberta, 78% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:
The employment outlook (PDF) in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.
Salaries vary considerably in this occupation.
| Wages* | Low (5th percentile) | High (95th percentile) | Average | Median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting | $31.28 | $48.08 | $36.18 | $35.83 |
| Overall | $34.99 | $61.05 | $44.68 | $42.53 |
| Top | $40.63 | $63.82 | $49.16 | $50.38 |
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* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.
Lower Reliability, represents a CV of between 15.01% and 33.00% and/or if fewer than 20 survey observations and/or if survey observations represent less than 33% of all estimated employment for the occupation.
| Public Administration | $87,250 |
|---|---|
| ALL INDUSTRIES | $84,266 |
| Health Care & Social Assistance | $77,362 |
Canadian Population Society website: www.canpopsoc.ca
Population Research Laboratory, Department of Sociology at the University of Alberta website: www.prl.ualberta.ca
Society of Edmonton Demographers website: sites.google.com/site/sedtoday/home
Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.
Updated Dec 01, 2016. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.