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Operations Research Analyst

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What You Need to Know About Operations Research Analyst

Job Description & Duties Formulate and apply mathematical modeling and other optimizing methods to develop and interpret information that assists management with decision making, policy formulation, or other managerial functions. May collect and analyze data and develop decision support software, service, or products. May develop and supply optimal time, cost, or logistics networks for program evaluation, review, or implementation.

Life As an Operations Research Analyst

  • Perform validation and testing of models to ensure adequacy and reformulate models as necessary.
  • Collaborate with others in the organization to ensure successful implementation of chosen problem solutions.
  • Present the results of mathematical modeling and data analysis to management or other end users.
  • Develop and apply time and cost networks to plan, control, and review large projects.
  • Design, conduct, and evaluate experimental operational models in cases where models cannot be developed from existing data.
  • Analyze information obtained from management to conceptualize and define operational problems.

What Skills Do You Need to Work as an Operations Research Analyst?

Operations Research Analysts state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.

Mathematics: Using mathematics to solve problems.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

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

Systems Evaluation: Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.

Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

  • Office System Analyst
  • Advanced Analytics Associate
  • Operations Research Manager
  • Standards Analyst
  • Analytics Consultant

Is There Job Demand for Operations Research Analysts?

In the United States, there were 114,000 jobs for Operations Research Analyst in 2016. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 27.5% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 31,300 new jobs for Operations Research Analyst by 2026. There will be an estimated 10,700 positions for Operations Research Analyst per year.

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The states with the most job growth for Operations Research Analyst are Utah, South Dakota, and Nevada. Watch out if you plan on working in Alaska, Maryland, or Vermont. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

Average Operations Research Analysts Salary

The typical yearly salary for Operations Research Analysts is somewhere between $46,810 and $136,250.

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Operations Research Analysts who work in District of Columbia, Hawaii, or Virginia, make the highest salaries.

How much do Operations Research Analysts make in each U.S. state?

State Annual Mean Salary
Alabama $89,380
Alaska $72,130
Arizona $76,760
Arkansas $61,360
California $95,470
Colorado $90,270
Connecticut $90,230
Delaware $86,690
District of Columbia $109,400
Florida $73,710
Georgia $69,370
Hawaii $102,270
Idaho $74,090
Illinois $96,630
Indiana $68,560
Iowa $81,990
Kansas $85,050
Kentucky $70,010
Louisiana $60,440
Maine $77,750
Maryland $99,870
Massachusetts $88,190
Michigan $88,820
Minnesota $89,020
Mississippi $74,690
Missouri $77,210
Montana $67,420
Nebraska $62,030
Nevada $85,800
New Hampshire $95,830
New Jersey $106,820
New Mexico $86,080
New York $102,560
North Carolina $84,860
North Dakota $64,580
Ohio $82,810
Oklahoma $68,090
Oregon $85,780
Pennsylvania $87,210
Rhode Island $92,100
South Carolina $76,670
Tennessee $69,480
Texas $82,660
Utah $73,200
Vermont $85,140
Virginia $104,980
Washington $93,080
West Virginia $56,640
Wisconsin $72,900

Tools & Technologies Used by Operations Research Analysts

Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Operations Research Analysts may use on a daily basis:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Office
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Python
  • Microsoft Access
  • MySQL
  • Data entry software
  • SAP
  • Microsoft Project
  • Microsoft SharePoint
  • Microsoft Visio
  • Structured query language SQL
  • The MathWorks MATLAB
  • Microsoft Dynamics
  • SAS
  • Linux
  • IBM Notes
  • Microsoft Visual Basic
  • Google Docs

How do I Become an Operations Research Analyst?

Are there Operations Research Analysts education requirements?

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How many years of work experience do I need?

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Where Operations Research Analysts Are Employed

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The table below shows the approximate number of Operations Research Analysts employed by various industries.

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You May Also Be Interested In…

Those thinking about becoming an Operations Research Analyst might also be interested in the following careers:

References:

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More about our data sources and methodologies.

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