Computer & Mathematical
Operations Research Analysts
Also called: Advanced Analytics Associate, Analytical Strategist, Decision Analyst, Operations Research Analyst (Ops Research Analyst)
US median pay
$88,940
per year, 2025
Job growth 2025–35
+11.9%
faster than average
Openings a year (US)
7,500
113,100 employed
Typical entry education
Bachelor's degree
Preparation 5/5 · Extensive preparation
What this job is
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 they do day to day
- Present the results of mathematical modeling and data analysis to management or other end users.
- Define data requirements, and gather and validate information, applying judgment and statistical tests.
- Perform validation and testing of models to ensure adequacy, and reformulate models, as necessary.
- Prepare management reports defining and evaluating problems and recommending solutions.
- Collaborate with others in the organization to ensure successful implementation of chosen problem solutions.
- Formulate mathematical or simulation models of problems, relating constants and variables, restrictions, alternatives, conflicting objectives, and their numerical parameters.
- Observe the current system in operation, and gather and analyze information about each of the component problems, using a variety of sources.
- Analyze information obtained from management to conceptualize and define operational problems.
- Study and analyze information about alternative courses of action to determine which plan will offer the best outcomes.
- Collaborate with senior managers and decision makers to identify and solve a variety of problems and to clarify management objectives.
Skills and knowledge that matter most
Skills
- Complex Problem Solving4.1/5
- Systems Evaluation3.9/5
- Systems Analysis3.9/5
- Judgment and Decision Making3.9/5
- Operations Analysis3.8/5
- Time Management3.1/5
- Coordination3.1/5
- Instructing3.0/5
Knowledge
- Mathematics4.7/5
- Computers and Electronics4.1/5
- Engineering and Technology4.0/5
- Production and Processing3.7/5
- English Language3.6/5
- Design3.1/5
Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).
Education and preparation
Preparation level 5 of 5 — Extensive preparation. Usually a graduate degree (master's, PhD, MD, JD) and extensive experience.
Typical entry education (BLS): Bachelor's degree.
Highest education of people in this job:
- Master's degree43%
- Bachelor's degree33%
- Doctoral degree14%
Who this job suits
Mostly Investigative
Ideas, research and solving problems
Conventional
Organising data, details and procedures
Enterprising
Leading, persuading and starting things
Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.