Operations Research Analyst

What an Operations Research Analyst Does

Operations research analysts help companies develop streamlined policies and management solutions for their offices. It's a profession that assists all kinds of companies across many different industries, but it is a highly technical field that requires solid understanding of advanced math principles, computer skills and quantitative reasoning skills. These analysts utilize methods including statistical research, data mining, computer modeling, simulation and linear programming to find solutions to problems in business, manufacturing and other industries. They forecast which materials and equipment are needed for various projects, determine schedules for sports leagues, help with organization and layout for stores, evaluate performance, design production facilities, and more. Most operations research analysts spend the majority of their time working in offices and with sophisticated computer software, but they must also pay visits to the sites and companies that they're working for.

How to Become an Operations Research Analyst

If you want to find the best career options for operations research analysts, you will have to earn a master's degree or even PhD. While a few entry-level jobs exist for bachelor's degree holders, graduate degrees are generally the standard for this field. As an undergraduate, take lost of advanced math, statistics and business courses, but as a graduate, look for programs in operations research, management science, applied mathematics or a related discipline. You will take courses in advanced mathematics, information technology, computer science, and statistics, and getting a double degree that combines operations research with computer science or another technology-oriented field will make you an extremely competitive force in the job market. Because data analysis is such a major part of this occupation, patience and attention to detail are extremely important character traits for operations research analysts. Continuing education in your job's specialty -- like business management, political science or economics -- is also a good idea if you want to compete for promotions and the best jobs.

Career Outlook for Operations Research Analysts

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a 22% increase in job growth for operations research analysts through 2018. That expectation results in 13,900 new jobs added to the industry. In 2008, there were already about 63,000 working operations research analysts in the United States, and they worked for insurance carriers, computer systems design firms, management, telecommunications firms, financial institutions, the federal government, and more. As of May 2008, the median annual salary for operations research analysts was $69,000. The middle 50% earned between $51,780 and $92,920, although many analysts receive yearly bonuses, depending on their employers. Analysts working for the federal government earned some of the highest salaries for the industry, at $107,198 annually. With a higher degree and more work experience, you will be able to increase your earning potential.