Top 20 highest paying jobs with maths literacy (2024)

Are you looking for a job that pays well and requires strong math skills? With an estimated 7.4 million job openings by 2026, the need for math-literate professionals is high—and so is the potential to make a good salary. In this article, we take a look at the top 20 highest-paying jobs with math literacy.

From finance and engineering to IT and healthcare, we’ll cover some of the most in-demand positions and the qualifications you need to land them. We’ll also talk about the best way to prepare yourself for a career in math-heavy fields. So, let’s get started!

Top 20 highest paying jobs with maths literacy

1. Actuary

Actuary is one of the top highest paying jobs with maths literacy. Actuaries use math and statistics to assess risk and measure the financial impact of uncertain future events. They work in the insurance and finance industries and are often employed by consulting firms, banks, and government agencies.

An actuary’s median salary is $108,350, and the job outlook for this profession is expected to grow 22% by 2029. The job requires strong math skills, as well as analytical and problem-solving abilities. Those with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, or actuarial science are well-suited for this profession.

2. Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts are responsible for analyzing company finances and providing advice to management on how to improve its financial performance. They use their mathematical and analytical skills to interpret financial data, create financial models, and make forecasts about the future financial performance of the company.

They also need to be able to communicate their findings and make recommendations to management. Financial Analysts are in high demand in South Africa, with salaries ranging from R438 962 to R841 559 per year.

3. Mathematician

Mathematicians are highly sought after due to their ability to solve complex problems, create models of data, and interpret information. They are also in demand because they can use their mathematical knowledge to develop innovative solutions to problems.

Besides having strong mathematical skills, mathematicians must also have strong communication and problem-solving skills. Mathematical jobs pay well in South Africa, with salaries ranging from R264,000 to R1,000,000 per year.

4. Data Scientist

Data Scientists are responsible for collecting, analyzing and interpreting large amounts of data. They develop algorithms and models to identify trends and patterns in the data. Data Scientists must have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and a high level of maths literacy to interpret and analyze the data.

This job requires creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate technical information to non-technical audiences. Data Scientists also need to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field, and they need to be able to work independently and with teams. Data Scientists earn above-average salaries in South Africa, making it one of the highest-paying jobs with maths literacy.

5. Cryptographer

A cryptographer is a person who specializes in the field of cryptography, which is the practice and study of techniques for secure communication in the presence of third parties known as adversaries. Cryptographers create and analyze protocols that prevent third parties or the public from reading private messages. They may also develop and implement security systems, including those that use cryptography.

Cryptographers may work in areas such as data security, network security, computer security, and information security. They are also involved in developing new cryptographic tools and techniques to improve security. Cryptographers must stay abreast of the latest developments in the field and be able to think creatively to come up with new solutions to security problems.

6. Software Developer

Software developers create software programs that enable computers to perform useful tasks. They design, develop, and test software applications and systems, and often work in teams with other software developers, system engineers, and IT professionals.

Software developers must have strong analytical and problem-solving skills. They must be able to think creatively and develop solutions to complex problems. Additionally, they must be able to interpret customer requirements and translate them into functional software applications.

Software developers must also have expertise in coding, debugging, and testing software programs. They must be familiar with a variety of programming languages, such as C++, Java, and Visual Basic. Additionally, they must have a thorough knowledge of computer hardware and operating systems.

Software developers must also be able to work independently and in teams. They must be able to communicate effectively with customers, managers, and other professionals. Additionally, they must be able to stay up-to-date with the latest software development technologies and trends.

7. Statistician

A statistician is a professional who uses statistical methods to solve problems and make decisions in various fields. Statisticians use mathematical techniques to collect and analyze data, interpret results, and make predictions. They work in a variety of industries, including government, healthcare, finance, and marketing. They may also be employed in academic settings, where they help design research studies and interpret findings.

Statisticians must be able to interpret and communicate complex information clearly and concisely. They need to be comfortable working with large datasets and have strong analytical and problem-solving skills. In addition to technical expertise, statisticians must be able to work well independently and in teams.

8. Quantitative Analyst

A Quantitative Analyst is a financial professional who uses mathematical and statistical models to analyze financial data and make predictions about future financial trends. They are responsible for the development and deployment of sophisticated financial models for pricing, risk management, and portfolio optimization.

Quantitative Analysts work in banks, hedge funds, insurance companies, and other financial institutions. They analyze stocks, bonds, and derivatives to determine their prices and risks. Quantitative Analysts use complex mathematical models to assess the financial markets and make decisions about investments. They often use computer software to develop and analyze financial models. They also study economic data to forecast future trends in the markets. Quantitative Analysts must be highly skilled in mathematics and statistics, as well as have a strong understanding of finance and economics.

9. Quantitative Trader

A quantitative trader is a financial trader who uses quantitative methods to analyze and manage risk. This type of trader uses mathematical models and algorithms to make decisions about when to buy and sell assets. Quantitative traders typically use a variety of data sources to analyze market trends and develop strategies for trading. They may also use sophisticated software programs to test and optimize their trading strategies.

Quantitative traders typically work with institutional investors, hedge funds, and other financial institutions. They often have a strong background in mathematics, statistics, computer science, and economics. Qualifications for a quantitative trader may include a bachelor’s degree in a related field and/or experience in trading.

Quantitative traders must be able to quickly analyze data and make informed decisions. They must also be able to think critically and strategically to develop successful trading strategies. Additionally, quantitative traders must stay up-to-date with the latest news and trends in the market to make the best decisions.

10. Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analyst is one of the highest paying jobs with Maths literacy. They are responsible for utilizing various mathematical and computational techniques to analyze and solve complex operational problems.

They are responsible for developing and testing models to evaluate the efficiency of various operational systems, as well as developing techniques to improve these systems. They are expected to understand and be able to apply a variety of mathematical techniques, such as linear programming, game theory, and network analysis.

Operations Research Analysts must be able to work with or manage large databases and extract meaningful information from them. They must be able to interpret and present the data in a way that is understandable to the client.

They must also be able to assess the current situation, identify potential risks, and develop strategies to minimize or eliminate them. In addition, they must be able to communicate their findings to the client clearly and concisely.

Operations Research Analysts must be able to work well independently as well as in a team environment. They must be able to work with minimal supervision and also be able to take direction from senior analysts. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills are essential, as is the ability to work well under pressure. A degree in mathematics, computer science, statistics, or a related field is typically required.

11. Risk Analyst

12. Aerospace Engineer

13. Astronomer

14. Financial Manager

15. Information Security Analyst

16. Business Intelligence Analyst

17. Investment Banker

18. Economics Professor

19. Research Scientist

20. Systems Engineer 

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Conclusion

In conclusion, maths literacy is an essential skill needed for many of the highest-paying jobs with maths literacy in the world. From finance to engineering and technology, having a strong understanding of maths is necessary for success.

Maths literacy can help you to develop problem-solving skills, creative thinking, and analytical abilities, which are all beneficial for achieving success in a variety of fields. With the right training and hard work, you can leverage your maths literacy to make the most of your career and get the highest-paying jobs.