Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos on the Web
- Mathematician- from: Youtube Search
Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Analysing Data or Information Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorising, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Thinking Creatively Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
- Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Training and Teaching Others Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Working Life
Mathematics is one of the oldest and most fundamental subjects studied at university. Mathematicians use mathematical theory, computational techniques, algorithms, and the latest computer technology to solve problems in business, government, and engineering and in the physical, life, and social sciences.
Some mathematicians work on developing new theories, and developing new principles and recognising previously unknown relationships between existing principles of mathematics. Although this work is focused more on increasing human's basic knowledge, and less on its practical use, such pure and abstract knowledge has resulted in many scientific and engineering achievements. Many theoretical mathematicians are employed in academic institutions, dividing their time between teaching and conducting research.
For example, they may analyse the most efficient way to schedule airline routes between countries, the effects and safety of new drugs, the aerodynamic characteristics of an experimental automobile, or the cost-effectiveness of alternative manufacturing processes.
Some mathematicians, called cryptanalysts, analyse and decipher encryption systems designed to transmit military, political, financial information in code.
Mathematics is the foundation on which so many other disciplines are built, for example, statistics, actuaries, and research analysts.
Frequently, mathematicians are required to collaborate with other workers in their organisations to achieve common solutions to problems.
Mathematicians often use computers to analyse relationships among the variables and solve complex problems by developing models with alternative solutions.
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- Address the relationships of quantities, magnitudes, and forms through the use of numbers and symbols.
- Disseminate research by writing reports, publishing papers, or presenting at professional conferences.
- Maintain knowledge in the field by reading professional journals, talking with other mathematicians, and attending professional conferences.
- Apply mathematical theories and techniques to the solution of practical problems in business, engineering, the sciences, or other fields.
- Conduct research to extend mathematical knowledge in traditional areas, such as algebra, geometry, probability, and logic.
- Develop mathematical or statistical models of phenomena to be used for analysis or for computational simulation.
- Perform computations and apply methods of numerical analysis to data.
- Assemble sets of assumptions and explore the consequences of each set.
- Develop new principles and new relationships between existing mathematical principles to advance mathematical science.
- Develop computational methods for solving problems that occur in areas of science and engineering or that come from applications in business or industry.
Qualities - Mathematician
Mathematicians need good reasoning power, persistence and the ability to apply basic principles to new types of problems.
They need a very high level of numeracy and a love of working with numbers and calculations.
They need to be prepared for spending a lot of time thinking and working solutions out, often on their own. It is likely that they will spend a lot of their time sitting down, and also using a computer.
Interests - Mathematician
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Administrative
Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.
They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.
Creative
Creative people are drawn to careers and activities that enable them to take responsibility for the design, layout or sensory impact of something (visual, auditory etc). They may be atrracted to the traditional artistic pursuits such as painting, sculpture, singing, or music. Or they may show more interest in design activities, such as architecture, animation, or craft areas, such as pottery and ceramics.
Creative people use their personal understanding of people and the world they live in to guide their work. Creative people like to work in unstructured workplaces, enjoy taking risks and prefer a minimum of routine.
Entry / Progression - Mathematician
Entry to mathematics as a career will require a degree level qualification (BA or BSc. in Mathematics), together with a postgraduate qualification at masters or doctorate level. Skills in mathematics also have applications in related business & STEM areas (Science, Technology and Engineering).
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: business, STEM, applied science, technology, engineering.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include: business, STEM, applied science, technology, engineering.
Search for PLC Courses
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.
Examples: Accounting, Financial Sservices, Engineering.
Search for Apprenticeships
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
Example search terms include: maths, applied maths with education, second level teaching, actuarial and financial mathematics, actuarial mathematics, arts mathematics, economics, mathematics.
Search for CAO Courses
Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).
Example search terms include: applied mathematics, financial mathematics, mathematical science, research, mathematics, mathematics structured.
Search for Postgraduate Courses
Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
- The Irish Mathematical Society CPD, networking, and research links.
Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.
Pay & Salary - Mathematician
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €31k - €129k
The skills of a mathmetician are varied and applicable accross many industries. Likewise Lecturin & research in academia may be combined with consultancy or project work in industry.
Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.
Data Source(s):
Payscale/ IUA/ TUI/ Sigmar / CPL / Morgan McKinley/ Lincoln
Last Updated: August, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Mathematician
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Actuaries; economists and statisticians; Business and related research professionals Business; research and administrative professionals n.e.c.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).
The strong employment growth for this occupation can be attributed in large part to changes in the LFS methodology in 2017, although employment has increased annually since then, albeit in small numbers.
The public administration and defence sector accounted for the largest share of employment at approximately two-fifths. Employment permits issued in 2022 were primarily in the financial activities and ICT sectors in roles including actuaries, data scientists and risk analysts. The Recruitment Agency Survey cited vacancies for data scientist engineers and actuaries as difficult-tofill. While demand exists for these roles, the numbers involved are likely to be small.
Useful Contacts - Mathematician
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School of Mathematics
