Actuaries
Actuaries analyze statistical data on mortality, accidents, sickness, disability, and retirement to calculate insurance risks and forecast future benefit payments. They build probability tables and determine the rates and cash reserves needed to ensure companies can pay claimed benefits. Most work for insurance companies, pension funds, or consulting firms.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against actuaries and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
An actuary typically spends time building and testing statistical models, reviewing claims data, and writing reports on risk assessments. Work involves using spreadsheets and specialized software to calculate probability tables and run scenarios. Meetings with underwriting, finance, or product teams occur regularly to discuss findings and recommend pricing or reserve adjustments.
Who this work suits
Holland code CIE. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy systematic problem-solving and working with numbers and data (investigative interests), while preferring structured processes and clear procedures (conventional interests). You're detail-oriented, comfortable with complex calculations, and interested in how organizations manage financial uncertainty.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- SVP & Corporate Actuary - Remote · Symetra · United States · Remote
- Actuary (Health) · Immediate Office of the Assistant Secretary for Management · Washington, District of Columbia · $121785–$187093
- Actuary (Benefits) · Immediate Office of the Assistant Secretary for Management · Washington, District of Columbia · $121785–$187093
- Chief Actuary · Clover Health · USA · Remote
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | $129,170 | $166,800 | $198,260 | 1,380 |
| District of Columbia | $144,680 | $166,230 | $185,220 | 160 |
| New York | $106,140 | $156,480 | $211,330 | 2,630 |
| New Jersey | $110,360 | $142,800 | $184,480 | 1,260 |
| Alabama | $82,630 | $136,950 | $149,320 | 190 |
| Arizona | $107,700 | $135,870 | $170,800 | 200 |
| Washington | $99,790 | $134,720 | $175,600 | 360 |
| Utah | $113,170 | $132,720 | $132,720 | 180 |
| Nevada | $98,620 | $132,370 | $171,700 | 120 |
| Florida | $98,410 | $132,110 | $165,610 | 1,300 |
| Virginia | $100,580 | $131,900 | $166,920 | 440 |
| Wisconsin | $95,620 | $131,640 | $160,510 | 890 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Associate of the Society of Actuaries (ASA) — Society of Actuaries
- Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (FSA) — Society of Actuaries
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against actuaries and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 15-2011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.