SAS
SAS (Statistical Analysis System) is a trusted software package that researchers and analysts use to make sense of large amounts of data. Think of it as a powerful calculator that can handle millions of data points and create useful reports and charts. Organizations like healthcare companies, research institutions, and government agencies use SAS to understand trends, make predictions, and draw conclusions from their data. While newer alternatives like R and Python exist, SAS remains popular, especially in regulated industries like pharmaceuticals and finance, because it's reliable and has been industry-standard for decades.
Examples in Resumes
Analyzed patient outcomes data using SAS to support clinical research studies
Created automated reporting systems with SAS programming for quarterly business reviews
Led team of SAS analysts in developing statistical models for drug trials
Typical job title: "SAS Programmers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find SAS Programmers
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you approach validating a complex clinical trials database using SAS?
Expected Answer: A senior programmer should discuss creating comprehensive data checking programs, implementing quality control processes, ensuring data consistency, and mention experience with regulatory requirements like FDA guidelines.
Q: Describe a challenging data analysis project you managed using SAS.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership in handling large datasets, creating efficient solutions, mentoring junior staff, and delivering results that met business or research objectives.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you ensure data quality in your SAS programs?
Expected Answer: Should explain methods for checking data completeness, accuracy, and consistency, including data validation techniques and error handling procedures.
Q: What's your process for documenting SAS programs?
Expected Answer: Should discuss importance of clear comments, maintaining program logs, version control, and creating documentation that others can understand and maintain.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic steps in creating a simple SAS report?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain importing data, basic data cleaning, running simple analyses, and creating basic tables or graphs.
Q: How do you import different types of data files into SAS?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of importing common file types like Excel, CSV, and text files, and basic data formatting.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic data importing and cleaning
- Simple statistical procedures
- Creating basic reports and graphs
- Understanding of basic medical terminology
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex data manipulation
- Advanced reporting techniques
- Clinical trial data handling
- Quality control procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Project leadership
- Regulatory compliance knowledge
- Advanced statistical analysis
- Mentoring junior programmers
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with healthcare or clinical data
- Lack of understanding of data validation principles
- No knowledge of industry regulations
- Poor documentation practices
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