Statistician

State/Territory Specific Information

Statisticians design and apply statistical techniques for collecting and analysing data to produce useful information from areas such as science, technology, medicine, business, finance and government.

Statisticians may perform the following tasks:

  • define precisely what is to be measured and decide which information to collect and from where
  • work out the size of the sample to be tested and how the sample will be selected
  • decide on the best method of collecting the information, whether by mail-out of questionnaires, experiments or survey interviews (telephone or face-to-face)
  • make sure measurement resources are used efficiently
  • interpret the data and produce relevant statistics to describe or infer particular trends and patterns
  • develop statistical models to describe trends for phenomena such as accidents, pollution, incidence of disease and economic trends
  • collect facts, fit models using statistical computer systems and develop and/or run statistical computer programs
  • evaluate the accuracy of the obtained information, represent data graphically and report findings
  • advise on the efficiency of experiments, sample surveys, observational studies and the analysis of results.

Specialisations:

Applied Statistician

An applied statistician analyses data from a variety of sources, including designed experiments and observational studies, and writes statistical programs.

Biostatistician

A biostatistician studies links between biological problems and their causes, in humans, animals, agriculture and botany. They usually work in hospitals, pharmaceutical companies or government health departments, and use computers to investigate risk factors for health problems.

Mathematical Statistician

A mathematical statistician develops new statistical theories and forecasting models, and designs sample surveys and quality control systems.

Statisticians may work by themselves, but they usually work in a team. The team may include research specialists as well as clerical and computing staff involved in data collection and analysis.

Personal Requirements:

  • aptitude for analysis and research
  • good at mathematics
  • good reasoning and problem-solving skills
  • good programming and computer skills
  • good communication skills
  • able to work independently or as part of a team.

Related Jobs:

Education and Training, Employment Opportunities and Additional Information

Select the State/Territory you are interested in: