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For Educators: Military Resources
For Educators: Military Resources

Operations Research Analysts

Median Salary
83,640
Job Outlook
+3%
In-Demand

Overview

What are the responsibilities of this role?

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.

What sectors do they work in?

Private for profit

43%

Federal Government

25%

State and local government

23%

Private not for profit

7%

Self-employed

1%

Did you know this role exists in the Military?

What is the job outlook?

Employment of operations research analysts is projected to grow 23 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 11,300 openings for operations research analysts are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Compensation

What is the typical salary range?

$49,980

10%

$83,640

Median

$117,350

90%

How does location impact how much salary?

Education

What level of education do professionals in this role have?

Education Level

  • Master's degree

    42%

  • Bachelor's degree

    33%

  • Doctoral degree

    14%

  • Post baccalaureate

    9%

Which college majors best prepare you for this role?

  • Management Science
  • Operations Research

Skills and Interest

Which skill sets are the most valuable to possess?

Skills

  • Verbal Skills

    High

  • Math and Science Skills

    High

  • Technology Design and Control

    High

  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

    High

  • Leadership

    Mid

  • Equipment Operation and Maintenance

    Low

What knowledge should you bring to the table?

  • Mathematics
  • Computers and Electronics
  • Engineering and Technology
  • Production and Processing
  • Education and Training

What challenges will you likely face in the workplace?

Workplace

  • Level Of Competition

    High

  • Exposure to Job Hazards

    Low

  • Time Pressure

    Low

  • Repetitiveness

    Low

  • Responsibility

    Low

  • Decision Making

    Low

  • Physical Activity

    Low

What personality traits help people thrive in this role?

Investigative

You love figuring out how things work and researching subjects that interest you.

Conventional

You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.

RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.

Take the RIASEC Test

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Data supplied by Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Center of Education Statistics, Defense Manpower Data Center (View our update schedule). Contact any business, college or military service branch to answer additional questions.