Research Scientist, Biostatistician, Data Scientist, Research Methodologists
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.
Statisticians work in fields such as business, economics and finance; engineering; or agricultural, biological, environmental, medical, physical or social sciences. In any of these fields, they may:
In general, statisticians work with others to:
In business and industry, corporations employ statisticians to work in market research, human resource forecasting, inventory control, cost analysis and process improvement. For example, statisticians in business and industry may design, conduct and interpret customer satisfaction surveys.
In government, statisticians work in program planning, technological research, policy analysis, operational research, agricultural research, urban planning, wildlife management, energy and resource management, labour and economic forecasting, and social research.
In research, statisticians work with other professionals to plan and conduct studies and experiments. For example, statisticians involved in medical research work with clinician (such as physicians and nurses) to investigate the causes of disease, and assess new drugs and medical treatments.
Statisticians work in an office environment. They usually work normal office hours but may work overtime to meet project deadlines. They often work on several different projects at the same time. They generally work in a team environment but also may work alone.
Statisticians need the following characteristics:
Statisticians should enjoy synthesizing data, applying statistical theories and methods, and working with others to understand and solve problems.
The minimum academic requirement is abachelor's degree in statistics or mathematics but a graduate degree (master's or doctoral) usually is required for higher level positions. A doctoral degree (PhD) is required to conduct independent research.
The following schools offer programs and courses that meet this occupation’s educational requirements. Other eligible programs and courses may be available.
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.
The Statistical Society of Canada provides two levels of accreditation for statisticians in Canada: Professional Statistician (P.Stat.) and Associate Statistician (A.Stat.).
Statisticians work for a variety of employers including:
Most jobs are located in major urban areas.
Outstanding individuals who have graduate degrees and many years of experience may move into management positions or become private consultants.
Statisticians 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 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 | $25.79 | $47.38 | $34.59 | $32.24 |
| Overall | $36.44 | $61.81 | $43.22 | $42.58 |
| Top | $40.04 | $66.81 | $49.81 | $46.89 |
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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.
Statistical Society of Canada (SSC) website: www.ssc.ca
For more information on career planning, education and jobs, visit the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) website, call the Alberta Career Information Hotline toll-free at 1-800-661-3753 or 780-422-4266 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Works Centre near you.
Updated Jan 01, 2012. 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.