What does an actuary do?
Shape the future with numbers
An actuary is a professional expert on analyzing risk. Beyond crunching numbers, actuaries think three-dimensionally, using their knowledge of math, human behavior, and business realities to identify the likely real-world outcomes. By measuring the risks ahead, actuaries help clear a path to progress.
No two workdays are the same in a career where numbers and real life (even life-and-death) intersect. What remains consistent: the countless opportunities for people with these skills.
Why become an actuary?
A top-ranked, high-impact career
In a world of risk, your future is secure as an actuary. Consistently rated among top careers by U.S. News and World Report, actuaries have high salaries, an array of paths for growth and advancement, and a satisfying work/life balance. (We know you’re a numbers person, so we brought some data.)
As an SOA member, you can access a community of career actuaries who actively share their experiences. Find answers to questions such as, “What is an actuary’s day actually like?”
Professional Development
Your next chance to shine is only a click away!
Events
2026 SOA Valuation Actuary Meeting Virtual
SOA Member Workshop-Karachi
2026 SOA Actuaries Connect - Karachi, Pakistan
The SOA Seoul Seminar
2026 SOA Actuaries Connect-Riyadh
2026 SOA MAP Conference
Volunteer Opportunities
University Success Coach: USA Student Ambassador Program
Newsletter Article Author – Career Development Community
Volunteer Facilitator – Mathematics of Personal Finance Workshop (Wealth, Time, Risk & Value)
Actuarial Career Panel - Abilene Christian University | Monday, October 12
LEARN Reinsurance Content Updater – Refreshing the Life & Health Reinsurance Educational Deck
Resume Reviewer - SOA Val Act Meeting Candidate Connect
Job Search
- Des Moines, Iowa, United States, IA
- Des Moines, Iowa, United States, IA
AVP Actuary Valuation & Modernization
- REMOTE
Accounting Manager - P&C Insurance
- REMOTE
Chief Financial Officer - P&C Insurance
- Alberta
Retirement Actuarial Analyst
- Kuala Lumpur
PM Actuarial Analyst
- Hawaii
Actuary
Start your actuarial journey
Through education and research, the Society of Actuaries (SOA) advances actuaries as leaders in measuring and managing risk to improve financial outcomes for individuals, organizations, and the public.
Education
Resources and tools for your first exam.
Exams & Registration
Ready to take a step forward? Learn about registering for your first exam.
Community
Find candidate events to meet others, make connections and build your network.