CFChooseField
Technology and Mathematics

Operations Research Analysts

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.

Visual summary of pay, outlook, skills, interests, and preparation for Operations Research Analysts
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Median pay

$91,290
Median annual pay for Operations Research Analysts.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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10-year growth

21.5%
Projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Annual openings

9,600
Projected annual openings, including growth and replacement demand.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Employment

112,100
Estimated U.S. employment for Operations Research Analysts in 2024.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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Jobs added or lost

+24,100
Projected numeric employment change from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Entry preparation

Bachelor's degree
Typical education needed to enter Operations Research Analysts.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024 profile
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O*NET occupation profile

What the work involves

Strongest O*NET signals first.

Essential skills

  1. 1Mathematics
  2. 2Active Listening
  3. 3Critical Thinking
  4. 4Reading Comprehension
  5. 5Speaking
  6. 6Writing

Knowledge areas

  1. 1Mathematics
  2. 2Computers and Electronics
  3. 3Engineering and Technology
  4. 4Production and Processing
  5. 5English Language
  6. 6Design

Abilities

  1. 1Mathematical Reasoning
  2. 2Deductive Reasoning
  3. 3Inductive Reasoning
  4. 4Number Facility
  5. 5Oral Comprehension
  6. 6Oral Expression

Career interests

  1. 1Investigative
  2. 2Conventional
  3. 3Enterprising
  4. 4Artistic
  5. 5Social
  6. 6Realistic

Work styles

  1. 1Intellectual Curiosity
  2. 2Attention to Detail
  3. 3Achievement Orientation
  4. 4Dependability
  5. 5Innovation
  6. 6Cautiousness

Work activities

  1. 1Getting Information
  2. 2Analyzing Data or Information
  3. 3Making Decisions and Solving Problems
  4. 4Working with Computers
  5. 5Processing Information
  6. 6Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events

Work context

  1. 1Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
  2. 2E-Mail
  3. 3Spend Time Sitting
  4. 4Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
  5. 5Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
  6. 6Importance of Being Exact or Accurate

Representative tasks

  • 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.

Software and tools

Microsoft Office software · in demandMicrosoft PowerPoint · in demandMicrosoft Power BI · in demandMicrosoft Outlook · in demandMicrosoft Excel · in demandPython · in demandStructured query language SQL · in demandTableau · in demandSalesforce software · in demandC · hot technologyR · hot technologyUNIX · hot technology

Sources

BLS provides national pay, employment, and projections. O*NET provides skills, interests, preparation, tasks, work context, and tools.

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