What does a Statistician do?
Statisticians collect large amounts of data, which they analyze, compile and report on to help the organization with planning and decision-making. They work with various departments to get the data they need related to the company’s performance. That data undergoes various calculations and statistical processes to uncover relationships between different variables. The Statistician puts the results into reports and presentations that are easier for people without a statistics background to understand. They present that information to the leadership team to help them make informed decisions about the company’s direction.
All types of companies and organizations hire statisticians, including large corporations and nonprofit organizations. Popular industries for Statistician positions include medicine, environmental science and government, but any industry can benefit from the statistical data and interpretations this role provides.
Statistician skills and qualifications
Statisticians use a lot of math and analytical skills in their work. Some specific qualifications needed for successful Statistician careers include:
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Comfort with technology, especially databases and statistical analysis software
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Strong understanding of statistical methods and formulas
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Effective data analysis skills
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Interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with different departments
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Written communication skills, including report writing
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Organizational skills and attention to detail
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Teamwork and leadership skills
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Presentation skills
Statistician experience requirements
Most organizations prefer candidates with at least a few years of experience as a Statistician. Candidates might have experience in a similar role that relies heavily on statistics, such as a Data Scientist. Working as a Business Analyst, Financial Analyst or in similar positions that use a lot of data can also be beneficial. Someone who hasn’t worked as a Statistician might start as an Assistant Statistician to gain more experience. It can also be important to look for experience in the industry or business in general. This experience helps a Statistician understand what type of business decisions they’re impacting, which can help them better analyze the data to be useful.
Statistician education and training requirements
While no universal education requirements exist for Statisticians, it’s generally required to have some type of degree in statistics, mathematics, data science or similar fields. Some companies might hire a Statistician with a bachelor’s degree, but many organizations set their minimum at a master’s degree. Other companies expect a Ph.D. when they hire a Statistician. In some cases, a combination of a degree and extensive experience as a Statistician can satisfy the job requirements.
Job description samples for similar positions
A Statistician might not be the exact role your organization needs. In that case, the following job descriptions for similar positions could be a better match:
Statistician job description FAQs
What is the difference between a Statistician and a Data Scientist?
Statisticians and Data Scientists both use data, but Data Scientists typically collect a lot more data than Statisticians. They also use more machine learning and computer science than Statisticians. A Statistician often looks for relationships to make predictions that help with decision-making, while Data Scientists want to visualize data and use it to solve a particular problem.
What qualities make a good Statistician?
A good Statistician has a passion for numbers and is advanced at using math. They’re curious and want to uncover the truth behind the numbers while positively impacting the company’s direction. Statisticians have to be flexible and understand when they need to change their methodology or use a different statistical method for a situation.
Do Statisticians have different responsibilities in different industries?
Many of the same statistical analysis methods apply regardless of the industry. However, the types of data and the goal of their calculations can vary. Corporations often expect Statisticians to generate recommendations that help them make sound business decisions. Public sector Statisticians might use data that helps with the greater good, such as improving the environment or promoting public health.
How can you make your Statistician job description stand out?
You can make your Statistician job description more appealing by getting specific with the type of data the Statistician will be working with and the goals of the position. You can also make it stand out by describing the unique characteristics of your company and the community. Detail extra perks that other companies might not offer and emphasize your company values and culture.
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