Occupation Spotlight: Operations Research Analysts

If you have a knack for problem-solving, data analysis, and optimization, a career as an Operations Research Analyst may be perfect for you. Operations research analysts are professionals who utilize advanced mathematical and analytical techniques to help organizations solve complex problems, make informed decisions, and improve overall efficiency.

What is the role of an Operations Research Analyst?

The primary responsibility of an Operations Research Analyst is to gather and analyze data from various sources, design models, develop algorithms, and construct simulations to identify areas where efficiency can be improved. They work closely with project managers, executives, and other stakeholders to understand the organization’s goals and objectives and provide data-driven solutions.

Operations Research Analysts are involved in diverse fields such as transportation, finance, healthcare, logistics, and engineering. They may work on projects like determining the most cost-effective distribution routes, optimizing production schedules, or developing algorithms to enhance machine learning models.

Examples of Operations Research Analyst Jobs

Here are a few examples of how operations research analysts contribute in different industries:

• Transportation: Analyzing traffic patterns, optimizing routes, and determining the best scheduling for public transportation systems.
• Healthcare: Designing models to allocate hospital resources efficiently, optimizing staffing schedules, or analyzing patient flow to minimize wait times.
• Finance: Analyzing market trends, optimizing investment portfolios, or developing algorithms for risk assessment.
• Logistics: Optimizing supply chain processes, inventory management, and distribution networks to reduce costs and enhance efficiency.
• Engineering: Identifying bottlenecks in manufacturing processes, optimizing production plans, or analyzing energy consumption to suggest improvements in sustainability.

Education and Training

To pursue a career as an Operations Research Analyst, a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and computer science is essential. Most entry-level positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in operations research, industrial engineering, or a related discipline. However, many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree or Ph.D. in operations research or a similar field.

Coursework typically covers subjects such as linear programming, probability models, statistical analysis, simulation techniques, and optimization theory. Additionally, proficiency in programming languages like Python or R, as well as data visualization tools, are valuable skills in this field.

Progression and Entry into the Field

Progression within the field of Operations Research Analysis often involves gaining experience and honing specialized skills. Entry-level analysts are likely to work under the supervision of more experienced professionals to develop their expertise.

While academic qualifications are essential, gaining practical experience is equally important. Internships or entry-level positions at consulting firms, government agencies, or research organizations can provide valuable exposure to real-world problem-solving scenarios and help build your professional network.

Moreover, staying updated with the latest advancements in the field, attending conferences, and participating in professional organizations like the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS) can enhance your knowledge and increase job opportunities.

Starting a career as an Operations Research Analyst may be challenging, but the rewards are significant. The field offers intriguing problem-solving opportunities, the chance to make a meaningful impact on organizations, and the potential for career growth in diverse industries.

Salary Data for Operations Research Analysts

Below is the salary data for the occupation of Operations Research Analysts in various job levels and geographies. The data includes the US national average as well as specific information for California and Idaho.

Operations Research Analysts work in various job levels, ranging from Level 08 to Level 12. The national average salary for Level 08 is $83,428.80 (low) to $70,740.80 (high). For Level 09, the salary ranges from $85,758.40 (low) to $77,209.60 (high). At Level 11, the salary increases to $103,854.40 (low) to $98,009.60 (high). The highest paying job level is Level 12, with a salary of $139,776.00 (low) to $124,217.60 (high). There is also a category called “Not able to be leveled” with a salary of $96,304.00 (low) to $94,536.00 (high).

The national average salary for Operations Research Analysts who are nonunion and at all job levels is $94,806.40 (low) to $89,148.80 (high). Full-time employees in this occupation earn an average salary of $95,513.60 (low) to $91,395.20 (high). For full-time employees at specific job levels, Level 08 pays $84,510.40 (low) to $71,052.80 (high), Level 09 pays $85,820.80 (low) to $77,272.00 (high), Level 11 pays $103,916.80 (low) to $98,009.60 (high), and Level 12 pays $139,776.00 (low) to $123,510.40 (high). There is also a category called “Not able to be leveled” where the salary ranges from $98,758.40 (low) to $95,680.00 (high). There are separate categories for full-time employees at the entry level and experienced level, but no salary data is provided for the high end of these ranges.

Operations Research Analysts who are paid on a time-based pay system earn an average salary of $94,244.80 (low) to $90,937.60 (high).

In terms of geography, Operations Research Analysts in California earn an average salary of $101,400.00 (low) to $107,328.00 (high), while those in Idaho earn $72,633.60 (low) to $65,478.40 (high).

Summary/Conclusion

Operations Research Analysts play a crucial role in helping organizations solve complex problems and improve efficiency through the use of advanced mathematical and analytical techniques. They analyze data, design models, develop algorithms, and provide data-driven solutions across various industries such as transportation, healthcare, finance, logistics, and engineering.

To become an Operations Research Analyst, a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and computer science is necessary. While a bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement, many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree or Ph.D. in operations research or a related field. Practical experience through internships or entry-level positions is also valuable for career progression.

Salary data for Operations Research Analysts varies based on job level and geography. The highest-paying job level is Level 12, with a national average salary ranging from $139,776.00 (low) to $124,217.60 (high). Full-time employees in this occupation earn an average salary of $95,513.60 (low) to $91,395.20 (high). California has the highest average salary for Operations Research Analysts, with a range of $101,400.00 (low) to $107,328.00 (high).