Statistical Assistant

Actuarial Analyst, Actuarial Assistant, Actuarial Technician, Research Assistant
Job Description

A Statistical Assistant supports statisticians and data analysts by organizing data, conducting basic analyses, and preparing reports. They play a crucial role in the collection, processing, and interpretation of quantitative data.

Typical Preparation

Education: Bachelor's degree

Years in related career: None

On-the-job training: None

Outlook

Projected Growth: -1.7% (negative growth)

Annual job openings: 800

Direct AI exposure: 35% of tasks

Potential AI exposure: 100% of tasks

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Statistical Officers and Related Research Support Occupations. According to the wage tables, average income is $59K per year.
Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$40K
per year
$44K
per year
$59K
per year
$79K
per year
$93K
per year
Compared to other careers: Median is $6.32K below the national average.

What does a Statistical Assistant do?

Intro video

(less than 2 minutes)

Duties

  • Collects and organizes data for statistical analysis.
  • Performs basic statistical analyses under the supervision of statisticians.
  • Prepares charts, graphs, and tables to present data findings.
  • Assists in the preparation of reports and documentation of results.
  • Maintains databases and ensures the accuracy and integrity of data.

Work environment

Statistical Assistants typically work in offices, often within government agencies, research firms, or corporate environments. Their role is mostly computer-based, involving the use of statistical software and databases, and it may require collaboration with other team members, including statisticians and researchers.

Typical Schedule

Areas of specialization

  • Government Statistics: Focusing on data related to public policy, economics, and demographics.
  • Market Research: Specializing in statistical analysis for market trends and consumer behavior.
  • Biostatistics: Assisting in medical and biological research data analysis.
  • Educational Statistics: Analyzing data related to educational systems, outcomes, and policies.
  • Environmental Statistics: Focusing on environmental data, including climate and ecological studies.

Description

Statistical Assistants are integral in transforming data into understandable and usable information. They must be meticulous in their work, ensuring data is accurately collected, entered, and analyzed. This role requires a strong foundation in mathematics and statistics, as well as proficiency in statistical software and tools. Understanding the principles of data collection and analysis is crucial, as is the ability to communicate findings effectively through visual and written means.

The role offers a balance between independent work on data processing and collaborative efforts in report preparation and analysis. As data becomes increasingly important in various sectors, Statistical Assistants can find opportunities in diverse fields, ranging from healthcare to finance, offering varied and dynamic career paths.

This occupation is ideal for those who enjoy working with numbers and have a keen interest in data interpretation. It provides a unique opportunity to contribute to data-driven decision-making processes in various industries. The role is constantly evolving with technological advancements, making continuous learning and adaptation a necessary part of the job.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Statistical Assistant if you are...

Pros:

  • Growing demand for data analysis skills in various industries.
  • Intellectual stimulation from working with diverse data sets.
  • Opportunities for career growth and specialization.
  • Generally regular working hours in an office environment.

Cons:

  • The work can be highly detail-oriented and sometimes monotonous.
  • Requires continuous learning to keep up with advancements in statistical methods and software.
  • May involve working under pressure to meet deadlines.
  • The need for accuracy can be demanding and stressful at times.

How to become a Statistical Assistant

Typical education

A bachelor's degree in mathematics, statistics, economics, or a related field is commonly required. Additional experience or knowledge in statistical software and data analysis techniques is also highly valued.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Mathematics, especially courses in statistics and algebra.
  • Computer Science to gain skills in data management and software.
  • Economics or Social Studies to understand data usage in various contexts.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Join math or science clubs to enhance analytical skills.
  • Participate in statistics or data analysis competitions.
  • Volunteer in roles that require data collection and analysis.

Preparation after high school

  • Pursue a bachelor's degree in statistics, mathematics, economics, or a related field.
  • Gain experience with statistical software through internships or coursework.
  • Participate in workshops or online courses to learn specific statistical methods and tools.
  • Seek opportunities for research assistant positions in academic or industry settings.

More resources

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.