Actuarial Analyst Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era driven by data, the role of an actuarial analyst is more crucial than ever.
As the world evolves, so does the call for skilled individuals who can dissect, interpret, and manage complex financial data to predict future risk and uncertainty.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an actuarial analyst?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
- A hiring manager creating a profile for the ideal candidate,
- Or simply curious about the intricate world of actuarial analysis,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable actuarial analyst job description template, designed for convenient posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Actuarial Analyst Duties and Responsibilities
Actuarial Analysts utilize their knowledge of business and economics, along with their understanding of probability theory, statistics and investment theory to provide strategic, commercial and financial advice.
They have the following duties and responsibilities:
- Analyze statistical data and create models to help calculate the financial risks of certain business decisions
- Perform actuarial valuations and projections
- Assist in the pricing and development of insurance products
- Prepare and present reports to explain their findings and recommendations
- Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards
- Develop and use financial and statistical models to predict future events
- Work closely with other departments like risk management and finance to develop plans for the organization
- Stay updated on financial market trends and economic information that may affect their models
Actuarial Analyst Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are in search of a detail-oriented and analytical Actuarial Analyst to join our team.
Your primary responsibility will be to analyze statistical data and calculate insurance risks, premiums, and benefits.
To excel in this role, you must have a solid understanding of statistical analysis and its application in insurance, and be able to analyze and predict financial risks.
Your goal will be to provide data-based advice to our company and help us make well-informed decisions.
Responsibilities
- Analyze statistical data, such as mortality, accident, sickness, disability, and retirement rates
- Construct probability tables to forecast risk and liability for payment of future benefits
- Calculate required premium rates or cash reserves necessary to ensure payment of future benefits
- Determine policy contract provisions for each type of insurance
- Advise management on issues such as risk management or increasing profitability
- Prepare actuarial reports or charts to depict calculated results
- Explain to the company’s stakeholders the methodologies used and the findings
- Stay updated with developments in the field of actuarial science
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Actuarial Science, Mathematics, or a related field
- Previous work experience as an Actuarial Analyst or in a similar role
- Familiarity with databases, statistical packages, and programming languages
- Excellent mathematical and statistical abilities
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Good communication skills to explain complex processes and strategies to non-technical stakeholders
- Completion of at least one Society of Actuaries exam (preferred)
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Actuarial Analyst
- Work Environment: Office setting. Some remote work may be possible.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Actuary or Actuarial Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $71,325 minimum to $119,659 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does an Actuarial Analyst Do?
Actuarial Analysts typically work for insurance companies, consulting firms, government agencies, or any other organization that has to manage financial risk.
They use their expertise in business, statistics, and finance to study uncertain future events, particularly those of concern in the insurance and pension fields.
Their analysis provides a quantitative assessment of risks, which assists in making sound financial and insurance decisions.
Actuarial Analysts often design and test insurance policies, pension plans, and investments.
They may analyze statistical data to estimate the probability of a certain event occurring such as death, sickness, injury, disability, or property loss.
They are also responsible for calculating the financial impact of such uncertainties.
The results of their analysis help in designing insurance policies or pension plans that are beneficial for both the company and the policyholder.
Actuarial Analysts may also be involved in strategic planning, product development, price setting and other decision-making processes of an organization.
Their role could also involve reporting to management, advising on issues such as the need for reserve funds or policy changes.
Actuarial Analyst Qualifications and Skills
An Actuarial Analyst should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:
- Strong mathematical and statistical skills to calculate the probability and potential financial cost of an event such as death, sickness, injury, disability or loss of property.
- Proficiency in relevant computer software and programming languages such as SQL, VBA and Excel to manipulate data and create financial models.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities to interpret complex numerical information and evaluate risk.
- Strong communication skills to clearly explain technical concepts to non-technical colleagues, superiors, and clients.
- Attention to detail and ability to work under pressure in order to ensure the accuracy of calculations and reports.
- Knowledge of business and economics to understand the financial, commercial, and social issues that may impact risk assessment.
- Highly developed interpersonal skills to collaborate with other professionals such as underwriters, accountants, and financial analysts.
- Understanding of data privacy standards and compliance requirements.
Actuarial Analyst Experience Requirements
Actuarial Analysts are usually required to have a bachelor’s degree in Actuarial Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field.
This course of study provides the initial experience with statistical analysis and modeling, financial theory, and business strategies.
Entry-level Actuarial Analyst positions often require no professional actuarial experience but having an internship or part-time role in an actuarial department of an insurance company or a consulting firm can be highly beneficial.
This can provide real-world experience in utilizing actuarial software, data analysis, and risk assessment.
Candidates with 1 to 2 years of professional experience are often expected to have passed one or more of the actuarial exams administered by the Society of Actuaries (SOA) or Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS).
This experience often includes roles such as Actuarial Intern, Junior Actuarial Analyst, or similar positions where they gain a practical understanding of risk management principles and develop their problem-solving skills.
Those with more than 3 years of actuarial experience are usually expected to have completed several actuarial exams and may have specialist knowledge in a specific area such as life insurance, health insurance, pensions, or risk management.
They may also have experience in higher level tasks such as data modeling, forecasting, and advising on strategic decisions.
Candidates with more than 5 years of experience may have completed all or most of the actuarial exams, earning an Associate or Fellow designation from SOA or CAS.
These professionals often have extensive experience in designing and implementing complex mathematical models for predicting future financial outcomes, and may be ready for a managerial or team-lead position.
Actuarial Analyst Education and Training Requirements
Actuarial Analysts typically hold a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, actuarial science, statistics, or other related fields.
During their degree, they are usually exposed to courses in business, finance, and economics, which are essential for understanding the context in which actuaries work.
In addition to a relevant degree, Actuarial Analysts are also required to pass a series of examinations to become certified professionals.
The most common certifications are offered by the Society of Actuaries (SOA) and the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS).
These exams cover a variety of topics in mathematics, probability, economics, and financial management.
Work experience in the field, such as an internship, can also be beneficial for understanding the practical application of actuarial science and enhancing problem-solving skills.
Furthermore, mastery of certain software programs such as Microsoft Excel or specific actuarial software like MG-ALFA may be required.
Some employers may prefer candidates who are familiar with programming languages like Python or SQL.
Continuing education is important in this field due to the ever-evolving nature of risk assessment and financial regulations.
Therefore, many Actuarial Analysts participate in professional development programs throughout their careers.
Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work with complex numerical information are also key for success in this role.
Actuarial Analyst Salary Expectations
An Actuarial Analyst earns an average salary of $72,100 (USD) per year.
The salary can greatly vary depending on factors such as work experience, educational background, location, and the company they work for.
Those in senior roles or with many years of experience can expect significantly higher earnings.
Actuarial Analyst Job Description FAQs
What skills does an actuarial analyst need?
Actuarial analysts should have strong mathematical and statistical skills.
They should have excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities to handle large data sets and determine trends and patterns.
Proficiency in software programs such as Excel and data analysis tools is also required.
Additionally, they should have good communication skills to explain complex data in understandable terms.
Do actuarial analysts need a degree?
Yes, actuarial analysts typically require a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, actuarial science, or a related field.
In addition to this, many employers prefer candidates who have passed at least one or two examinations conducted by the Society of Actuaries (SOA) or the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS).
What should you look for in an actuarial analyst resume?
The resume of an actuarial analyst should show a strong foundation in mathematics or statistics through a relevant degree and high grades.
Look for any experience with statistical analysis software and data analysis.
Certification or progress towards certification from the SOA or CAS is a plus.
Internships or work experience within the insurance industry can also be beneficial.
What qualities make a good actuarial analyst?
A good actuarial analyst should have a strong attention to detail, as even minor errors can significantly affect their work.
They should be good problem solvers and be able to think critically, using their analytical skills to make sense of complex data.
Good communication skills are also important, as they often need to explain technical information to non-technical colleagues or clients.
What are the daily duties of an actuarial analyst?
On a typical day, an actuarial analyst may spend their time compiling statistical data, building and utilizing mathematical models, calculating the likelihood of events like accidents, illnesses, and property damages, and helping determine pricing for insurance policies.
They could also prepare reports to summarize their findings and present these reports to stakeholders.
Conclusion
And there we have it.
Today, we have unraveled the intricacies of what it truly entails to be an actuarial analyst.
Surprise, surprise!
It’s not just about crunching numbers.
It’s about shaping the financial future, one calculated risk at a time.
With our definitive actuarial analyst job description template and real-world examples, you’re all prepared to take the next step.
But why halt your journey here?
Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for crafting meticulous job listings or honing your resume to perfection.
Remember:
Every risk assessment is a piece of a larger financial puzzle.
Let’s shape that future. Together.
Reasons to Become an Actuarial Analyst (Secure Financial Stability!)
How to Become an Actuarial Analyst (Complete Guide)
Disadvantages of Being an Actuarial Analyst (Always Calculating Costs)
Your Career, Your Choice: The Most Flexible Jobs for Decision Makers
Defying Death Daily: The Most Perilous Professions Unveiled
Bank-Breaking Careers: The 2025 Guide to the Highest Paying Jobs!