Who is a mathematician and what do they do? The mathematician carries out research in the field of mathematics, pure or applied.
What are the activities of the mathematician? Initiating research in the field of theoretical(pure) and applied mathematics; elaborating and publishing studies of their special subject; offering expertise for use in applications of mathematics in different fields (technical, economic, scientific); teaching mathematics in lower, upper and higher education.
Where is it done and under what conditions? In offices or classrooms, in a controlled and reasonably comfortable environment.
What tools/equipment do they use? Computers and advanced statistical or mathematical programmes (SPSS, SAS, STATISTICA etc).
What do you need to succeed? You need higher education (e.g. BA degree in mathematics) and possible further specialisation (e.g. to masters or doctoral level). You also need abstract, analytical and creative thinking and problem solving abilities; computer skills; ability to work with numbers or statistical reports at an advanced level. To teach mathematics you will also need teacher training.