10 Key Attributes Statistical Assistants Need To Succeed In Their Career

by Noah Smith

Saturday, January 2, 2016

Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Statistical assistants compile and compute data according to statistical formulas for use in statistical studies. They may also perform actuarial computations and compile charts and graphs for use by actuaries. Includes actuarial clerks.

The core tasks that statistical assistants are likely to carry out include:

Compute and analyze data, using statistical formulas and computers or calculators.
Enter data into computers for use in analyses or reports.
Compile statistics from source materials, such as production or sales records, quality-control or test records, time sheets, or survey sheets.
Compile reports, charts, or graphs that describe and interpret findings of analyses.
Check source data to verify completeness and accuracy.
Participate in the publication of data or information.

In order to successfully forge ahead with their careers, analysts in a survey carried out by U.S. Department of Labor (via O*NET) have marked out the following as important attributes that statistical assistants would need. These attributes have been selected from characteristics and requirements strongly associated with the occupation. They are

Abilities: Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance
Interests: Preferences for work environments. Occupational Interest Profiles (OIPs) are compatible with Holland's (1985, 1997) model of personality types and work environments. Six interest categories are used to describe the work environment of occupations: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. An OIP consists of six numerical scores indicating how descriptive and characteristic each work environment (or interest area) is for an occupation
Knowledge: Organized sets of principles and facts applying in general domains
Skills: These include basic skills, which are developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge. Plus cross-functional skills, which are developed capacities that facilitate performance of activities that occur across jobs
Style: Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job

We have listed out attributes which were scored 80% or more in terms of importance by the analysts.

Having a strong preference for conventional work environments. Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
Attribute Type: Interests Score: 100%

Analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
Attribute Type: Style Score: 93.6%

The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Attribute Type: Abilities Score: 92.6%

Using mathematics to solve problems.
Attribute Type: Skills Score: 90%

Being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
Attribute Type: Style Score: 89.6%

Being honest and ethical.
Attribute Type: Style Score: 88.2%

The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Attribute Type: Abilities Score: 87.6%

Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Attribute Type: Knowledge Score: 86%

Being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
Attribute Type: Style Score: 80.8%

Being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
Attribute Type: Style Score: 80.8%