Daily tasks/Routine activities

1.Prepare publications and reports containing research findings.

2. Analyze and interpret data to increase the understanding of human social behavior.

3. Plan and conduct research to develop and test theories about societal issues such as crime, group relations, poverty, and aging.

4. Collect data about the attitudes, values, and behaviors of people in groups, using observation, interviews, and review of documents.

5. Develop, implement, and evaluate methods of data collection, such as questionnaires or interviews.

5. Teach sociology.

6. Direct work of statistical clerks, statisticians, and others who compile and evaluate research data.

7.Consult with and advise individuals such as administrators, social workers, and legislators regarding social issues and policies, as well as the implications of research findings.

8. Collaborate with research workers in other disciplines.

9. Develop approaches to the solution of groups' problems, based on research findings in sociology and related disciplines.

10. Observe group interactions and role affiliations to collect data, identify problems, evaluate progress, and determine the need for additional change.

11. Develop problem intervention procedures, using techniques such as interviews, consultations, role playing, and participant observation of group interactions.

Key  knowledge areas

The following knowledge areas are relevant in the career path of a sociologist ;

Sociology and Anthropology — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures and their history and origins.

English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Mathematics — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Psychology — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.

Education and Training — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

Skills

The following skills aid a sociologist carry out his/her duties with ease ;

Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Active Listening — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.It helps him /her pick out the key issues to the problem fast and better.

Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.This gives him/her chance to think out of the box incase of new challenges.

Abilities

Oral Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.

Written Comprehension — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

Written Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.

Oral Comprehension — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

Speech Clarity — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.