Operations Research Analysts

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.

Median Annual Wage: $76,660

Education: Master's degree (56%); Bachelor's degree (30%); Doctoral degree (11%)

Projected Growth: Much faster than average (22% or higher)

Related Job Titles: Scientist; Operations Research Analyst; Operations Research Manager; Analytical Strategist; Business Analytics Director; Business Insight and Analytics Manager; Decision Analyst; Operations Research Group Manager

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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Operations Research Analysts.

More Computer and Mathematical Careers

  • Collaborate with senior managers and decision makers to identify and solve a variety of problems and to clarify management objectives.
  • Collaborate with others in the organization to ensure successful implementation of chosen problem solutions.
  • Prepare management reports defining and evaluating problems and recommending solutions.
  • Study and analyze information about alternative courses of action to determine which plan will offer the best outcomes.
  • Specify manipulative or computational methods to be applied to models.
  • Perform validation and testing of models to ensure adequacy and reformulate models as necessary.
  • Define data requirements and gather and validate information, applying judgment and statistical tests.
  • Analyze information obtained from management to conceptualize and define operational problems.
  • Observe the current system in operation and gather and analyze information about each of the parts of component problems, using a variety of sources.
  • Design, conduct, and evaluate experimental operational models in cases where models cannot be developed from existing data.
  • Break systems into their component parts, assign numerical values to each component, and examine the mathematical relationships between them.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Operations Research Analysts.

  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • 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.
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
  • Systems Analysis - Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
  • Operations Analysis - Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Operations Research Analysts.

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