Job Overview Mathematics had been part of our study from our kindergarten years to post secondary levels. We owe the development of the concepts and its applications to the mathematicians. Mathematicians are scientists. They solely or direct the solution of the problems in higher math. These include the number theory, geometry, calculus, algebra, and topology. Presently, there are two classifications of mathematicians: the theoretical mathematicians and the applied mathematicians. The are approximately 2,500 mathematicians who are employed in non academic settings in America.
Education, Knowledge and Trainings Required
If you wish to become a mathematician someday, prepare as early as elementary or as high school by taking as many subjects or classes in mathematics such as algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, and physical sciences such as physics and earth sciences. The minimum requirement to be one is a possession of a doctorate degree in mathematics. It is most necessary to those who are working in a research and development settings as well as in college level teaching.
Skills and Abilities
To become a mathematician, the ability in abstract reasoning must be highly developed. he should be able to analyze an interpret with accuracy different mathematical concepts and ideas. Speed as well a accuracy in dealing with numbers are necessary in fulfilling the duties of the job be it in theoretical or in applied mathematics. Communication skills are also needed more specially those who pursued a career in academic institutions, who teach subordinates and conduct numerous researches in the field. An extensive knowledge of mathematics is expected of every mathematicians.
Duties
There are two major areas of opportunity for a mathematician's career. Either he pursues a career in applied mathematics or in theoretical mathematics. The duties, the processes as well as the responsibilities of the job are dependent on the organizational and institutional setting. Theoretical mathematicians, those who pursued a career in theoretical mathematics deal with the abstract mathematical concepts in its purest form. More often, they teach in a college or work in a department of research in a government agency or in a privately owned company. Applied mathematicians, on the other hand, develop and apply mathematical concepts so as to give solution to practical problems in research, social life, earth sciences and business.
Outlook and Earnings
The job outlook for this kind of career is said to be in decline. However, given a chance to get hired in prestigious universities and corporations, the salary ranges from 41,000 U.S. dollars to 80,000 U.S. dollars per annum. Those who have proven their expertise in the field and have a considerable number of years of professional experiences and proven excellence in the field may earn around and over 121,000 U.S. dollars annually.
Paula Hiz is a researcher and a human resource specialist who helps newly graduates, job applicants and post graduate professionals be aware of their job opportunities and available trainings for skills and practice upgrading.