Operations research analysts
SOC Code: 15-2031Also known as:
Advanced Analytics Associate, Analytical Strategist, Analytics Consultant, Business Analyst, Business Operations Analyst
Median Annual Salary
$91,290
+21.5% growth (2024-2034)
10K
Openings/Year
112K
Current Jobs
What Operations research analysts Do
Formulate and apply mathematical modeling and other optimizing methods to develop and interpret information that assists management with decisionmaking, policy formulation, or other managerial functions. May collect and analyze data and develop decision support software, services, or products. May develop and supply optimal time, cost, or logistics networks for program evaluation, review, or implementation.
💰 Salary
$91,290
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+21.5%
Much faster than average
🎓 Education
Bachelor's degree
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
10K
Projected average per year
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
112,100
Projected Employment (2034)
136,200
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Top Skills Required
Mathematics
Complex Problem Solving
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Writing
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Present the results of mathematical modeling and data analysis to management or other end users.
- Define data requirements, and gather and validate information, applying judgment and statistical tests.
- Perform validation and testing of models to ensure adequacy, and reformulate models, as necessary.
- Prepare management reports defining and evaluating problems and recommending solutions.
- Collaborate with others in the organization to ensure successful implementation of chosen problem solutions.
- Formulate mathematical or simulation models of problems, relating constants and variables, restrictions, alternatives, conflicting objectives, and their numerical parameters.
- Observe the current system in operation, and gather and analyze information about each of the component problems, using a variety of sources.
- Analyze information obtained from management to conceptualize and define operational problems.
- Study and analyze information about alternative courses of action to determine which plan will offer the best outcomes.
- Collaborate with senior managers and decision makers to identify and solve a variety of problems and to clarify management objectives.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
Bachelor's degree
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
Master's Degree
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Operations research analysts
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a operations research analysts:
Management Science
34,245 degrees awarded •
348 colleges offer this program
Operations Research
1,910 degrees awarded •
34 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Operations research analysts
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become operations research analysts.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do operations research analysts make?
The median annual salary for operations research analysts is $91,290.
What education do operations research analysts need?
Most operations research analysts positions require a bachelor's degree.
Common degree programs include Management Science, Operations Research.
Is becoming operations research analysts a good career choice?
Operations research analysts is projected to see +21.5% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is much faster than average for all occupations. With approximately 9,600 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for operations research analysts?
Top colleges for aspiring operations research analysts include
University of California-Los Angeles, University of Southern California, New York University, Northwestern University, University of Chicago.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to operations research analysts?
Operations research analysts may also be known as: Advanced Analytics Associate, Analytical Strategist, Analytics Consultant, Business Analyst, Business Operations Analyst, Business Process Analyst, Decision Analyst, Decision Support Analyst, File System Installer, Forms Analyst, Liaison Planner, Material Liaison, Methods Analyst, Methods Consultant, Methods Specialist, Office System Analyst, Operations Analyst (Ops Analyst), Operations Research Analyst (Ops Research Analyst), Operations Research Scientist (Ops Research Scientist), Operations Specialist (Ops Specialist).
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.