What Jobs Can You Get With A Maths Degree?

There are many possible jobs for a maths graduate – in fact, maths is one of the most useful things you can study at university. Construction has plenty of opportunities for people good with numbers, and they aren’t just in accountancy!

Skills maths graduates have

Mathematics graduates are always in high demand because they are technically minded, are used to solving problems and can think logically and clearly. These skills are particularly well suited to the construction industry. Maths is seen as one of the STEM subjects, alongside science, technology and engineering, which are critical for jobs in fields that can have the most beneficial impact on society.

Earning potential of a maths graduate

Good numbers can be achieved by those good with numbers. There is no ceiling on how much a maths graduate can earn during their career. Starting salaries for the jobs below are usually in the region of £20,000-£25,000, but with training and experience, you could command a salary of £50,000-£60,000 in some of these roles. Chartered or senior architects can earn up to £100,000.

Engineering roles

Structural engineer

Structural engineers ensure structures can withstand the stresses and pressures imposed by use and the environment. They calculate stability, strength and rigidity and make sure the right materials are used for each project, whether it is a new-build, conversion or renovation. As a structural engineer, you could work on residential projects, shops and offices, bridges and offshore rigs, theatres, museums and hospitals, or even space satellites.

Civil engineer

Civil engineers are responsible for the planning, design and management of significant construction projects, including transportation links, buildings and other structures. They use computer modelling software and data from surveys, tests and maps to develop project blueprints. These blueprints guide contractors and aim to minimise risk and environmental impact. Maths is important for civil engineers because it enables them to make precise calculations and measurements and to design systems that accurately meet performance requirements.

Construction project manager

Project managers oversee the planning and delivery of construction projects. They ensure that work is completed on time and within budget. They organise logistics, delegate work and keep track of spending. As a project manager, you liaise with clients and construction professionals to arrange schedules and direct activities. It is useful to have a maths degree as a construction project manager to calculate costs and keep control of budgets.

Environmental science roles

Sustainability analyst

In the construction industry, sustainability analysts or specialists assess the carbon footprint of a project and suggest ways to reduce its environmental impact on the wider world. They help businesses save money and progress with developments, whilst keeping an awareness of the people and ecosystems and complying with environmental legislation. Sustainability analysts work extensively with data and statistics, so a good understanding of maths is an ideal academic background for such a role.

Urban planner

An urban or town planner is responsible for the design and development of urban areas, such as towns and cities. As an urban planner, you would ensure there is a balance between demands on the land being developed and the needs of the community. This can be on a national, regional or local level and requires an awareness of the environmental and economic impacts of a proposed development. The analytical and problem-solving skills that you develop from studying maths can be applied to a role as an urban planner.

Data-driven roles

Construction data analyst

Data analysts within the construction industry help to identify trends in data and use that information to make construction projects proceed more efficiently. In any project, there is a wide range of variables, such as labour, equipment and materials, and it is a data analyst’s job to make predictions based on the data that is available to inform the decision-makers. They may want to see how budgets can be maximised, labour utilised in a better way or inefficiencies minimised. All this can be achieved by good data analysis.

Risk analyst

Risk analysts identify and assess possible threats to construction projects. They take into account financial, legal, environmental and reputational risks, plus risks to the workforce and organisation they work for. They work closely with project managers, health and safety teams, human resources and legal teams. Risk analysts help risk managers create policies to protect assets and minimise accidents, mistakes, budget loss or public liability.

AI & machine learning roles

Construction automation specialist

Automation and automated systems can be used in construction to control and monitor site equipment, run material handling processes, surveying, quality control and safety management. Automation can help improve productivity and efficiency of site operations, and reduce safety risks for site workers. As AI and machine learning become more integrated within construction, automation specialists are likely to become increasingly important roles.

Building information modelling analyst

BIM (Building Information Modelling) analysts provide technical and analytical support in a Building Information Modelling team. BIM analysts provide compliance and quality checks on BIM information, ensuring that they are suitable for the project and conform to specifications. BIM analysts work closely with all members of the client’s team, design team, contractor team and supply chain.

Materials & design roles

Materials scientist

Materials scientists or engineers source, test and assess the materials used in construction. They ensure that building foundations and materials are suitable and offer guidance on the best materials to use for a project, based on their individual properties, project costs and timeframes. As construction shifts towards a sustainable future, materials scientists will play a key role in advising on sustainable building materials and technologies. Maths is used in the analysis of material test data and calculating material costs.

Architect

Architects design buildings and draw plans for how new, restored and extended buildings will look, externally and internally. They work with other professionals in construction to establish the layout, structure and functionality of buildings, based on budgets, measurements and the requirements of the client. Architects make sure that buildings are safe and fit for purpose, meet building regulations and enhance the environment in which they are built. Architects should have a good grasp of geometry and trigonometry, handle equations easily and will need the analytical thinking that maths demands.

Where to find jobs in the construction industry

A wide range of jobs, graduate schemes and apprenticeships for maths graduates interested in construction are advertised regularly on Talentview. You can filter your job searches by job role, and location and also look for management traineeships, work experience, placements and internships.