⭐ Bright Outlook

Actuaries

O*NET 15-2011.00 · SOC 15-2011

Projected Growth
+22%
2024–2034
Median Salary
$130k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Annual Openings
3k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 4
Considerable preparation needed (bachelor's degree)

What You'd Actually Do

  • Calculate risk probabilities
  • Build pricing models
  • Analyze insurance claims data
  • Prepare regulatory filings
  • Advise on financial risk strategies

Education & How to Get In

🎯
Job Zone 4
Considerable preparation needed (bachelor's degree)

A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Actuaries roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.

Get Started Learning

Ready to start building skills for a career as a Actuaries? These platforms offer courses you can start today — many with free trials or financial aid.

Coursera
University-backed courses and certificates
Browse courses →
Udemy
Affordable self-paced courses from $12.99
Browse courses →
Skillshare
Creative and professional skill classes
Browse courses →
LinkedIn Learning
Professional development with certificates
Browse courses →

Links open in a new tab. Some may include affiliate partnerships.

Work Environment

Primary Setting

Structured — offices, data centers, or remote

Work Style

Independent — focused deep work with periodic team check-ins

A Day in the Life

While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Actuaries involves a mix of core responsibilities:

MorningCalculate risk probabilities
MiddayBuild pricing models
AfternoonAnalyze insurance claims data

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Conventional (Organizers)6.3
Investigative (Thinkers)4.5
Enterprising (Persuaders)3.3
Social (Helpers)2.5
Realistic (Doers)1.8
Artistic (Creators)1.1

Who Thrives as Actuary?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

ISTJThe InspectorESTJThe ExecutiveENTJThe CommanderINTJThe Strategist

Not sure which you are? Take the free 5-minute quiz →

See Open Actuaries Roles

Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.

IndeedLinkedIn JobsZipRecruiter

Similar Careers

Document Management Specialists+33%Database Administrators+10%Clinical Data Managers+36%Data Warehousing Specialists+8%Accountants and Auditors+6%Private Detectives and Investigators+3%Insurance Underwriters+6%Fraud Examiners, Investigators and Analysts+6%

Explore More Careers

Best Technology Careers →Browse all careers →

Is Actuaries right for you?

Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the free quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.

Take the assessment →

Free · No account required · 5 minutes