Actuary
Analyse numbers and big data to help businesses and governments predict the future.
Also known as: insurance actuary, actuarial consultant, actuarial analyst
About the job
What it's like
You would gather and analyse data to judge the probability and risks of different future scenarios.
You'd advise managers in companies and public bodies so they can make responsible decisions about how to spend the organisation's money.
You'd work with a lot of data and statistics. You'd research, analyse and interpret the data to forecast long-term financial costs for companies and governments.
You would:
Analyse past events, for example accident rates or medical data to analyse risks
Forecast the future financial outcomes of various situations
Use computers to build mathematical and statistical models
Explain your findings to government ministers or business clients
Keep up to date with the financial and business worlds
If you work in an insurance or pensions company you would design these financial products so that the companies can pay out money to customers when they need it but still make a profit for the company.
As a consultant you'd advise clients on major financial risks such as investing their money in the stock market or buying a business.
If you work for the Government Actuary's Department you'd advise other departments on the costs of policies like benefits, state pensions and healthcare.
You would work closely with other professionals such as insurance underwriters, investment managers and accountants.
Hours
You would typically work normal office hours, Monday to Friday, although you may need to be flexible. Part-time work and job sharing, once qualified, may also be available. During your training, it's common to spend around 15 hours a week studying for professional exams as well as working full time.
Environment
The work is mainly office-based. Dress code is usually formal.
Travel
You may travel to visit clients. This may be overseas.
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Financial and professional services
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- actuarial science
- solvency
- investments
- account management
- annuities
- marketing
- good manufacturing practices
- shareholder communications
- financial statements
- insurance products
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- understanding
- analysing
- making decisions
- attention to detail
- researching
- observation
- working with numbers
- problem solving
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Accounting
Business
Economics
Maths (Mathematics)
Skills for Work: Financial Services
Statistics
Foundation Apprenticeship: Financial Services
Applications of Mathematics
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
You need an honours degree at 2:1 or above in a numerate subject (SCQF Level 10).
To enter a numerate degree such as accountancy requires minimum Highers BBBC, a relevant HNC/D or equivalent.
Alternatively, work-based qualifications, including a Modern Apprenticeship, may be available.
Advanced Highers / Baccalaureates or a relevant HND may support entry to the second year or third year of some degree courses.
Once in a job you will need to achieve professional qualifications and become an Associate of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries.
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