SOUTH AFRICA · SALARY IN RANDS

Mathematicians

What the work involves, the skills employers want, and how to get started in South Africa.

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What do Mathematicians do?

A mathematician is an individual who specializes in the field of mathematics, engaging in the study, research, and application of mathematical theories and principles. Mathematicians explore abstract concepts, develop new theories, and solve mathematical problems that can range from pure mathematical research to practical applications in various fields such as engineering, economics, computer science, and physics. They are often involved in identifying patterns, modeling behaviors, and providing insights through complex calculations and algorithms. Mathematicians may work in academia, conducting research and teaching, or in industry, applying mathematical techniques to real-world challenges. Their work can significantly contribute to advancements in science, technology, and finance, shaping the understanding of quantitative relationships and enhancing decision-making processes. Mathematics is viewed not just as a calculation tool but as a critical language that describes the laws governing the universe.

What the work actually is

  • 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.

Skills employers expect

Skills

  • Mathematics Using mathematics to solve problems.
  • Critical Thinking Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
  • Complex Problem Solving Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Active Learning Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
  • Reading Comprehension Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

Abilities

  • Mathematical Reasoning The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
  • Number Facility The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  • Deductive Reasoning The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
  • Inductive Reasoning The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
  • Information Ordering The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).

Knowledge

  • Mathematics Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
  • English Language Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
  • Computers and Electronics Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
  • Education and Training Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
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How people get into it

Education of new hires

Doctoral degree
Master's degree
Bachelor's degree

A normal week

  • Analyzing Data or Information
  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems
  • Processing Information
  • Getting Information
  • Thinking Creatively

Tools used on the job

Tools

  • Read write digital versatile disc DVD Optical disk drives
  • Mainframe computers Supercomputers
  • Notebook computers Laptop computers
  • High capacity removable media drives Universal serial bus USB flash drives
  • Scientific calculator Graphing calculators

Who it suits

Investigative

Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.

Conventional

Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.

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Questions people ask

How much do Mathematicians earn in South Africa?

Mathematicians salaries in South Africa vary by experience, province and employer.

What do Mathematicians do?

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 and Maintain knowledge in the field by reading professional journals, talking with other mathematicians, and attending professional conferences.

How do I know if this career fits me?

Take the free Assessify career assessment. It matches your answers to careers and shows the South African salary next to each one.