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Operations Research Analyst

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All About Operations Research Analysts

Job Description: 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: What Do They Do?

  • Specify manipulative or computational methods to be applied to models.
  • Observe the current system in operation and gather and analyze information about each of the parts of component problems, using a variety of sources.
  • 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.
  • Develop and apply time and cost networks to plan, control, and review large projects.
  • Develop business methods and procedures, including accounting systems, file systems, office systems, logistics systems, and production schedules.

Skills Needed to be an Operations Research Analyst

Below is a list of the skills most Operations Research Analysts say are important on the job.

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.

  • Risk Analyst
  • Operations Specialist
  • Operations Analyst
  • Forms Analyst
  • Methods Analyst

What Kind of Operations Research Analyst Job Opportunities Are There?

In 2016, there was an estimated number of 114,000 jobs in the United States for Operations Research Analyst. 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. The BLS estimates 10,700 yearly job openings in this field.

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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.

Operations Research Analyst Salary

The salary for Operations Research Analysts ranges between about $46,810 and $136,250 a year.

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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 different U.S. states?

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

What Tools & Technology do Operations Research Analysts Use?

Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Operations Research Analysts:

  • 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 to Become an Operations Research Analyst

Learn what Operations Research Analyst education requirements there are.

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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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References:

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More about our data sources and methodologies.

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