The Basics of Becoming an Operations Research Analyst
Are you investigating how to become an Operations Research Analyst and want to know more about the career? The main job of Operations Research Analysts is to use advanced mathematical models to understand information that managers/executives use to help make important business decisions. They identify production or sale problems within an organization and perform statistical analysis to solve them. They collect information from many sources, such as computer databases.
Operations Research Analysts help set prices, manage product distribution, make complicated decisions, and more. For example, an Operation Research Analyst at an airline will determine ticket prices, schedule flights and coordinate with flight crews.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, although some employers prefer to hire applicants with a master’s degree or PhD, many entry-level positions are available for those with a bachelor’s degree. Since few schools offer bachelor’s or advanced degree programs in operations research, analysts typically have degrees in other quantitative fields, such as computer science, industrial engineering, or mathematics.
An Operations Research Analyst's Salary Potential
- Lowest 10th%
$48,670 - Median
$84,810 - Highest 90th%
$140,790
States with the Highest Employment Levels
| STATES | 2019 ANNUAL MEAN WAGE | NUMBER OF JOBS |
|---|---|---|
| California | $101,150 | 10,000 |
| Texas | $84,500 | 9,820 |
| Virginia | $104,090 | 8,770 |
| New York | $104,890 | 6,510 |
| Florida | $75,500 | 4,620 |
How Do Your Skills Stack Up?
As reported by O*NET, these traits are ranked as either extremely or very important to the day to day life of an Operations Research Analyst.
What You Will Learn With an Operations Degree?
Trying to figure out if earning a bachelor’s degree in operations management is your next move? Schools with undergraduate degrees in operations may offer classes like:
- Management Science
- Supply Chain Management
- Sustainable Operations
- Business Ethics
- Project Contracting & Procurement
Operations careers call for the management of staff, processes, materials, and more. An undergraduate degree in operations management usually covers aspects of managerial science, like supply chain management, logistics management, and teams/group dynamics. In addition, coursework could explore areas of operations ranging from cost-scheduling and contracting/procurement to quality control and sustainability. Finally, you’ll likely explore topics related to environmental issues, natural resources, business ethics, and more, with the goal of understanding the impact and ethical concerns of the operations management field.
Random Problems solved with Math
According to We Use Math, Operations Research Analysts can solve a wide range of problems using mathematics. Here's a random sampling of that list:
- To analyze the flow of patients through a health care system
- To help police departments devise shift schedules that minimize response time and meet budget and human resource needs
- To help airlines develop pricing strategies, schedule crews and aircraft, and develop disaster recovery plans
- During wartime to effectively deploy radar, search for enemy submarines, and get supplies to where they are most needed
FAQs About How to Become an Operations Research Analyst
What is the average salary an Operations Research Analysts makes?
What skills do Operations Research Analysts Possess?
What are common types of software I would have to learn as an Operations Research Analysts?
What are job titles are the same as or similar to an Operations Research Analyst?
What types of personalities are a good fit for becoming an Operations Research Analysts?
Job information sourced from O*NET