Much of the day involves close attention to detail: verifying that source data, like survey forms, is complete and accurate, coding it for computer entry, and keeping databases current and well organized. Assistants also compile the charts, graphs, and reports that describe a study's findings, and in some roles support actuaries with computations used in insurance or risk calculations. It's a desk-based job that rewards precision over speed, usually done in support of a larger analytics or actuarial team.
Pros
Pay can reach nearly $82k, solid for a role that doesn't require advanced statistics training
Desk-based, low-stress environment without frequent public interaction
Builds data and analytical skills useful for moving into fuller analyst or actuarial roles
Cons
Employment in this field is projected to shrink over the next decade (-2.5%)
A relatively small number of positions nationwide (around 800) limits opportunities
Requires a bachelor's degree despite the role being largely clerical in nature
A typical day
The morning starts with a stack of survey responses that came in overnight, each one checked for missing fields and impossible values before it can join the dataset. By 10 the assistant is running frequency tables the lead statistician requested and flagging an odd spike that turns out to be a data-entry duplicate. The afternoon goes to building charts for a quarterly report -- formatted to house style, every figure double-checked against the source. The last hour is spent documenting the day's data cleaning steps, because six months from now someone will ask exactly what was changed and why.
Tasks at the job
Check source data to verify completeness and accuracy.
Enter data into computers for use in analyses or reports.
File data and related information, and maintain and update databases.
Compile reports, charts, or graphs that describe and interpret findings of analyses.
Organize paperwork, such as survey forms or reports, for distribution or analysis.
Code data prior to computer entry, using lists of codes.
Workplace & working conditions
Work happens indoors in a climate-controlled setting, and most of the day is spent sitting at a desk.
There's a regular, moderate amount of time pressure, and you're expected to exercise significant independent judgment day to day. Precision and accuracy are essential to the work.