Top 28 Jobs for Math Majors That Offer Incredible Opportunities

Most people tend to think that there are only several job options for math majors.

However, the truth is that math skills can open doors to a whole variety of amazing careers.

The fact is that math is involved in numerous areas, especially in such spheres as engineering, science, and technology.

If you have great math skills, you can find a great job in one of the numerous areas.

Usually, math majors are great in problem-solving, logical thinking, and planning.

Also, they are great in data analysis, model development, and making conclusions.

Moreover, they know how to construct solutions using quantitative data and patterns.

As you can see, such a set of skills allows math majors to perform numerous tasks and jobs.

As a math major, you can get a job in such spheres as banking, insurance, education, logistics, and others.

There are even careers that do not require a math degree while allowing you to use your math skills.

In this article, you can find a list of entry-level jobs for those with a bachelor’s degree in math.

Also, there are several job options for those with more advanced education.

Creating this list, we wanted to show that there are numerous careers for math majors.

Just keep in mind that there’s only a small amount of career options for math majors and if you do your research, you will find a bunch of other jobs.

You need to remember that there’s a variety of jobs that do not mention math degree but require skills in this sphere.

Believe us, you will be able to find more options than you can imagine.

What Job Require Skills and Knowledge in Math?

The fact is that almost any career requires at least some math skills.

It can be some basic or advanced knowledge such as inferential statistics and complex algebra.

Looking for a job, you should consider some facts provided by the study of American workers:

• 94% of workers need some math skills to perform their duties;
• 68% should have a good understanding of fractions, decimals, and percentages;
• 1/3 of blue collars such as mechanics and carpenters use algebra knowledge daily;
• 29% of blue collars need to know geometry and trigonometry;
• 5% of working people should use calculus;
• skilled trades workers, managers, and technical professionals are main specialists that require skills in math.

As you can see, math skills are very important for a whole bunch of jobs especially those related to engineering, science, and technology.

There are also careers that you can hardly relate to math but they still require a specialist with knowledge of this subject.

For example, computer animators and game developers are among those specialists who actively use math.

Obtain a degree in mathematics, you have an opportunity to get access to a whole variety of careers.

You can apply for theoretical or applied math and both of them will help you develop such valuable skills as analytical and quantitative skills.

The list of organizations that hire math majors includes such options as:

• Airlines and other transportation service providers;
• Biomedical and health services companies;
• Engineering firms;
• Financial institutions;
• Government agencies and academic research institutes;
• Insurance agencies;
• Medical device manufacturers;
• Real estate firms.

Numerous math majors look for opportunities to get a job in Google or other huge corporations.

The reason is that these companies offer a great salary as well as a whole bunch of cool benefits.

However, numerous small companies are ready to provide math majors with a competitive salary and a whole bunch of incredible perks.

Jobs That Require Math Skills But Not a Degree

Math skills and knowledge are required in almost any occupation.

There is a bunch of jobs that require basic knowledge of math while not having a maths degree as an obligation.

They are great options for people who aren’t proficient in math but still enjoy doing math.

Some of them are listed below in this article.

Many of these options require just a couple of years or less of post-secondary training.

The list of these careers includes such options (+ average annual salaries) as:

• Mobile application developer—$103,6202
• Construction manager—$93,3702
• Computer programmer—$84,2802
• Commercial pilot—$82,2402
• Project manager—$73,5553
• Computer animator—$72,5202
• Diagnostic medical sonographer—$72,5102
• Registered nurse—$71,7302
• Landscape designer—$68,2302
• Electronics engineering technician—$64,3302
• Video game designer—$63,6663
• Aircraft mechanic—$62,9202
• Radiologic technologist—$59,5202
• Cardiovascular tech—$56,8502
• Mechanical engineering technician—$56,2502
• Electrician—$55,1902
• Architectural drafting technician—$54,9202
• Plumber—$53,9102
• CNC machine tool programmer—$53,1902
• HVAC technician—$47,6102
• Diesel mechanic—$47,3502
• Carpenter—$46,5902
• Commercial truck driver—$43,6802
• Auto mechanic—$40,7102
• Optician—$37,0102
• Motorcycle mechanic—$36,7902
• Photographer—$34,0002
• Pharmacy technician—$32,7002

3 Reasons to Study Math

If you like solving puzzles, searching out patterns, and analyzing data, mathematics is a perfect option for you.

This subject is focused on logic and aims to encourage innovations.

Having the ability to use math principles and concepts, you can find a job almost in any industry.

If you still hesitate, there are 3 reasons why you should choose math as your major.

Math Helps to Solve Real-World Problems

Any career related to math is focused on problem-solving issues.

The Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics claims that having knowledge in math, you can deal with such problems as:

• How to design transportation schedules in order to minimize downtime and reduce maintenance costs?
• Can ethanol become a good alternative for fossil fuels?
• What are the ways of spreading of an uncontained epidemic of disease throughout the world’s population?
• In what way such variables as weather and tree type can affect the spread of a forest fire?
• How to minimize the risk and get a maximum reward when arranging investment?

Major in Math Guarantees the Highest Level of Satisfaction

Having an education in math, you can get one of the most rewarding and satisfying jobs.

Recently, there was published the study about the best careers based on their income, environment, outlook, level of stress and so on.

Four of the top 10 careers in the list are related to math.

Data science is in the first place, statistician – on the second, mathematician – on the eighth, and actuary – on the tenth.

Math Is a Solid Foundation for Advanced Studies in Spheres

Even if you are interested in careers related to another sphere, you still should consider learning some math basics.

Having an undergraduate degree in math, you can pursue further training in medicine, law, engineering, and business.

The reason is that people with proficiency in math have excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.

According to the research, math majors have better results on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) than majors in other disciplines.

Entry-Level Jobs for Math Majors With a Bachelor’s Degree

While studying math, you can develop intellectual discipline and mental patience that will help you to get a rewarding job in one of the numerous spheres.

As a math major that is fresh out of college, you can get a job in finance, insurance, information technology, and marketing.

Moreover, there are lots of entry-level jobs that offer pretty high salaries.

The list of great entry-level positions for math majors with undergraduate degree includes various options and some of them are listed below.

Cryptographer

Cryptographers are specialists who develop and break codes in order to find effective ways to keep sensitive data safe.

It can be a great career option for math majors who have no experience.

These specialists are usually hired by intelligence agencies and other organizations.

For example, you can encode signals for communication companies or code and encrypt transactions for financial institutions such as banks.

You can easily enter this career right after college especially if you have knowledge and skills in computer science.

Median salary—$119,4767
Top salary—$148,650 or more

Mathematician

The career of a mathematician is the most obvious option for any math major.

A mathematician is a specialist who uses numerical analysis for problem-solving issues.

You need to know that these specialists are in big demand and it will increase even more in the nearest future.

Working in this sphere, you are going to research new theories and concepts, analyze data and develop mathematical models.

In most cases, you need to have an advanced degree in math to apply for this career but the federal government is ready to hire specialists with a bachelor’s degree.

Median salary—$101,9002
Top salary—$160,550 or more

Economist

Economists gather market data and analyze it using statistical analysis and mathematical models in order to understand economic trends and describe them.

Very often these specialists held various researches while working on think tanks.

One other career option is market monitoring to help companies develop marketing strategies and get higher profits.

Also, economists are often hired by different government organizations that examine various issues related to taxes, employment, and interest rates.

Government agencies have a bunch of entry-level career options for math majors with a bachelor’s degree.

However, if you want to get a job in the private sector, you need to complete some extra training.

Median salary—$104,3402
Top salary—$182,560 or more

Actuary

Most math majors get a job in the actuarial field.

Actuaries are specialists that use their knowledge in math and statistics to help insurance companies calculate risks and manage them.

In other words, they need to calculate what is the possibility of any event, what will its price be, and what policies can help to minimize the risks.

To be able to work in this career, you need to have knowledge in math, computer science, and finance.

Consider starting your certification process as an actuary while you are still in college.

Median salary—$102,8802
Top salary—$186,110 or more

Financial Planner

Financial planners help people with their finances including investment issues and meeting financial goals.

This career requires excellent knowledge of math so it’s a great option for math majors.

Also, if you want to become a successful financial planner, you need to have excellent communication skills.

After gaining three years of experience, you can become a Certified Financial Planner so you can advance your career options.

Median salary—$88,8902
Top salary—$208,000 or more

Investment Analyst

Working as an investment analyst, you are going to analyze the financial market, study the latest trends, and assess investment opportunities for various financial institutions.

To succeed in this sphere, you need to know how to calculate investments’ value and present it in written reports.

To enter the field, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in math.

In some cases, you may be obligated to obtain a license from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).

Median salary—$85,6602
Top salary—$167,420 or more

Statistician

In simple words, statisticians are specialists who analyze data in order to reveal trends find the most effective ways to solve problems.

Also, these specialists should be able to determine the best methods for data gathering.

After getting the required data and analyzing it, statisticians make conclusions using the received results.

Statisticians are hired by research agencies, government organizations, pharmaceutical companies, insurance firms, and others.

Usually, you need to have a Master’s degree to enter the field but sometimes Bachelor’s degree is enough.

Median salary—$87,7802
Top salary—$139,350 or more

Operations Research Analyst

If you want to work as an operations research analyst, you need to have good analytical skills.

These specialists use mathematical modeling techniques and statistical analysis to reveal the best way for organization operation.

For example, they develop flight schedules for airline companies or optimize manufacturing processes for computer makers.

Just keep in mind that some positions may require a special security clearance.

Median salary—$83,3902
Top salary—$136,250 or more

Systems Engineer

Numerous electronics and communications companies look for qualified math majors especially those who also have knowledge in computer science.

Usually, they work as entry-level engineers and perform data analysis using their problem-solving skills.

Also, this career is suitable for those who are interested in learning new technologies.

Before applying for this job, consider getting lots of internship training in electronics technology.

Median salary—$77,9723
Top salary—$124,000 or more

Inventory Control Specialist

Inventory control specialists usually work at manufacturing and merchandising companies.

They are responsible for maintaining a balance between stock on hand and stock on the warehouse.

These specialists use their analytical skills to decide on the right policies and procedures in order to ensure proper inventory levels.

Usually, if you want to get a position in this sphere, you need to have at least a bachelor’s degree.

Median salary—$74,600 for all logisticians2
Top salary—$119,950 or more

Budget Analyst

Budget analysts work for research companies, government departments, and academic institutions to help them decide on a budget for different projects.

They analyze budget proposals, the cost of required services and products, possible impact on the organization.

After completing their research, budget analysts provide recommendations on funding issues.

In most cases, a bachelor’s degree is enough to get a job but some organizations may look for specialists with a Master’s degree.

Median salary—$76,2202
Top salary—$116,300 or more

Accountant

Accountants usually work in various organizations to help them balancing books and keeping financial records.

The list of their responsibilities includes such points as preparing tax returns, calculating payroll, and ensuring compliance with the regulations and laws.

To start an accountant career you need to have math training but you should also consider completing an internship to increase your chances to get a job.

One other way to advance your career is to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

Median salary—$70,5002
Top salary—$122,840 or more

Insurance Underwriter

Before providing any type of insurance, insurance companies address underwriters so they calculate the involved risks.

These specialists learn various probabilities, analyze statistics, and decide on risks related to insurance coverage for a particular client and its size.

Usually, to enter the field, underwriters need to obtain the certification.

Median salary—$69,3802
Top salary—$122,840 or more

Programmer Analyst

After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in math, you have an opportunity to start working as a programmer analyst.

Numerous tech companies offer entry-level positions for these specialists.

Programmer analysts perform a whole bunch of duties such as designing database queries, writing software specifications, and creating debugging/testing procedures.

Also, they may work on software customization to ensure it meets the client’s or company’s needs.

In addition to great math skills, you also need to have knowledge of some programming languages as well as various operating systems.

Median salary—$66,1053
Top salary—$93,000 or more

Purchasing Agent

Purchasing agents are qualified specialists who buy products that are resold by stores.

They should be able to find the required products while balancing their price and quality.

Working in this industry, you need to research market conditions, learn prices and vendors, negotiate contracts to get the best deals.

You can easily enter the field after obtaining a degree in math while various available certifications will provide you with extra points.

Median salary—$62,7502
Top salary—$104,190 or more

Market Researcher

Market researchers help companies to decide on products that should be sold and their promotion.

Using statistical analysis, they learn customers’ preferences and their purchasing power.

Using data received by market researchers, companies produce various products and decide on their prices and promotion campaigns.

This is a fast-growing sphere that expects even bigger growth in the future.

Median salary—$63,1202
Top salary—$121,080 or more

Cost Estimator

Cost estimators work for construction firms and manufacturing companies.

These specialists analyze the potential cost of projects, their duration, and the required resources.

Cost estimators work closely with other specialists such as engineers, architects, and others.

They learn blueprints and gather data that can help to make the required estimates.

Also, these specialists should be able to find potential ways to reduce the cost of a project.

Median salary—$64,0402
Top salary—$107,940 or more

Fraud Investigator

To be able to work as a fraud investigator, you should be attentive to details and have analytical thinking.

These specialists deal with such crimes as credit card scams, identity theft, and insurance fraud.

Their main responsibility is to analyze data in order to understand if someone deludes others to get some financial reward.

To be able to work in this sphere, you need to complete a background check and in some cases even get a license.

Median salary—$60,1673
Top salary—$88,000 or more

Energy Analyst

Energy analysts use various statistical techniques to analyze usage patterns in order to calculate the amount of energy used by households or how much utilities should cost, and so on.

Their main responsibility is to reveal market trends and make load forecasts for the electricity sphere.

Usually, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in statistics or math to get a job in this sphere.

Median salary—$60,3093
Top salary—$81,000 or more

High-school Math Teacher

If you like math and know how to explain it to others, a career of a high-school math teacher.

Also, it is a great option for people who enjoy working with students of various ages.

Working as a school teacher, you can help students to understand algebra and geometry, and learn calculus principles.

In most cases, you need to have a license to work in a public school.

However, sometimes, you can start working right after obtaining a bachelor’s degree in a related area and getting a certification.

Median salary—$60,3202
Top salary—$97,500 or more

Data Analyst

Data analysts are also known as junior data scientists.

These specialists collect, analyze, and verify data using various statistical techniques.

Analyzing complex data sets, data analysts identify trends and aspects that can help solve business-related problems and make profitable decisions.

These specialists work in numerous spheres including insurance, health care, marketing, and sales.

Having a bachelor’s degree in math, you can start working as a data analyst.

Median salary—$59,6143
Top salary—$84,000 or more

Software Tester

A software tester is a person who verifies computer applications to make sure they work properly and meet the requirements.

They need to have great analytical thinking and attention to detail to find performance issues, bugs, and UX issues.

Also, they should know how to use different testing tools and be familiar with the software development process.

You can enter the field with a degree in math while related certifications can give you extra points and benefits.

Median salary—$55,7423
Top salary—$86,000 or more

Math Jobs That Require an Advanced Degree

If you consider getting extra training and obtaining an advanced degree in math, it is a great way to get better career options.

According to the data, almost 50% of people who have a bachelor’s degree in math decide to continue their training.

After completing the graduate level, you can apply for a bunch of great careers related to math.

Some of them are listed below.

Algorithms Engineer

To be able to work as an algorithms engineer, you need to have excellent knowledge of math and technology.

These specialists create step-by-step guidelines for computers so they can perform various tasks.

They create algorithms for numerous gadgets such as biometric fingerprint recognition and automated driving applications.

To get a job as an algorithms engineer, you need to have a Master’s degree in computer science or math.

Also, consider learning different programming languages.

Median salary—$121,5003
Top salary—$142,000 or more

Geodesist

Geodesists make precise measurements of distances, changes in gravitation pull and crust using applied mathematics.

These specialists make very precise measurements so they can calculate any distance within a millimeter.

With the help of these specialists, scientists can identify even the slightest changes of the Earth’s surface.

You need to have a Master’s degree in math, geography, physics or earth science in order to get this job.

Average salary—$119,130 (federal government jobs)
Top salary—$138,572

Meteorologist

Meteorologists should have a whole variety of skills related to numerous areas so they can predict the weather.

They analyze and forecast atmospheric conditions with the help of complex modeling techniques.

Usually, these specialists work for such organizations as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) or the National Center for Atmospheric Research.

Also, they work for airlines, agricultural companies, and consulting firms.

To enter the field, you need to have graduate-level training including such an option as a combination of a bachelor’s degree in math and a Master’s degree in meteorology.

Median salary—$94,110 for all atmospheric and space scientists
Top salary—$142,500 or more

Data Scientist

As well as data analysts, data scientists use their knowledge to analyze complex data to get useful information.

However, in contrast to data analysts, data scientists not only analyze data but also develop new methods of data analysis and business development.

If you have an advanced degree in math, this career is one of the best options for you.

Usually, you need to have a Master’s degree in statistics and math but sometimes Ph.D. is required.

Median salary—$95,9873
Top salary—$134,000 or more

Mathematical Modeler

Having an advanced degree in math, you can use your knowledge to develop computer simulations.

They create simulations that help to investigate project results, processes and behavioral issues.

These specialists work in various areas including animation, video games, biological research, and even aerospace engineering.

To be able to work in this sphere, you need to have at least a Master’s degree in applied math.

Median salary—$81,7703
Top salary—$104,000 or more

Quantitative Financial Analyst

Quantitative financial analysts are also known as quants.

They work for financial companies helping them to reduce risks, increase profits, and price securities.

To perform their job properly, quants should analyze data, do detailed research, and verify assumptions.

In some cases, they even need to know computer coding.

You can apply for finance courses to get extra training but you need to have a graduate degree in linear algebra, statistics, calculus, and probabilities.

Median salary—$83,6433
Top salary—$130,000 or more

Conclusion

As you can see, math majors can get a job in various industries.

If you want to pursue a career related to math, you should start by getting an education.

You can apply for one of the training programs offered by tech institutes, vocational colleges, or trade schools.

It is your perfect way to get some valuable skills and knowledge so you can start a successful career.