All About Operations Research Analysts
Career 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
- Formulate mathematical or simulation models of problems, relating constants and variables, restrictions, alternatives, conflicting objectives, and their numerical parameters.
- Design, conduct, and evaluate experimental operational models in cases where models cannot be developed from existing data.
- Define data requirements and gather and validate information, applying judgment and statistical tests.
- Educate staff in the use of mathematical models.
- Collaborate with senior managers and decision makers to identify and solve a variety of problems and to clarify management objectives.
- Analyze information obtained from management to conceptualize and define operational problems.
Operations Research Analyst Required Skills
These are the skills Operations Research Analysts say are the most useful in their careers:
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.
Types of Operations Research Analyst Jobs
- Advanced Analytics Associate
- Operations Analyst
- Business Operations Analyst
- Methods Analyst
- Operations Specialist
Operations Research Analyst Employment Estimates
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. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 10,700 job openings in this field each year.
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 Average Salary
The typical yearly salary for Operations Research Analysts is somewhere between $46,810 and $136,250.
Operations Research Analysts who work in District of Columbia, Hawaii, or Virginia, make the highest salaries.
Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Operations Research Analysts 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 do I Become an Operations Research Analyst?
What education is needed to be an Operations Research Analyst?
How many years of work experience do I need?
Who Employs Operations Research Analysts?
The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.
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References:
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