Operations Research Analysts
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.
Also called: Advanced Analytics Associate, Analytical Strategist, Analytics Consultant, Business Analyst, Business Operations Analyst, Business Process Analyst
Median pay
$88,940
per year, U.S.
Pay range (10th–90th)
$57,060 – $159,910
People employed
108,510
Holland code
ICE
Investigative · Conventional · Enterprising
Updated October 2026 · Data: O*NET 31.0 and BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
Is this career right for you?
These are the things that stand out in this job compared with other U.S. jobs (O*NET 31.0 work context). Answer honestly.
- 1.Do you want variety, with new tasks often?
- 2.Are you happy working mostly on your own, with little contact with others?
- 3.Are you comfortable sitting at a desk most of the day?
- 4.Would you rather not deal with customers or the public?
- 5.Are you comfortable following clear instructions?
- 6.Do you want a job with little physical risk?
The hard parts
- Tight deadlines are common
Operations Research Analysts pay by state
Annual median pay by state (46 states and DC with published data). Source: BLS OEWS May 2025.
What operations research analysts do
- 01Present the results of mathematical modeling and data analysis to management or other end users.
- 02Define data requirements, and gather and validate information, applying judgment and statistical tests.
- 03Perform validation and testing of models to ensure adequacy, and reformulate models, as necessary.
- 04Prepare management reports defining and evaluating problems and recommending solutions.
- 05Collaborate with others in the organization to ensure successful implementation of chosen problem solutions.
- 06Formulate mathematical or simulation models of problems, relating constants and variables, restrictions, alternatives, conflicting objectives, and their numerical parameters.
Skills that matter most
- Mathematics
- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Writing
- Critical Thinking
Knowledge
- Mathematics
- Computers and Electronics
- Engineering and Technology
- Production and Processing
- English Language
Work styles that stand out
- Dependability
- Attention to Detail
- Integrity
- Cautiousness
- Intellectual Curiosity
Education and first steps
Share of workers by required education, as reported to O*NET.
How people get started
- Usually needs a graduate degree (O*NET Job Zone 5).
- Related work experience: over 1 year, up to and including 2 years.
- On-the-job training: over 1 month, up to and including 3 months.
Most common answers from O*NET 31.0 Education, Training and Experience.
Interest fit (Holland code)
O*NET occupational interest scores, scale 1–7. Take the Free Career Test to compare with your own.
Career changes
Change from operations research analysts
- Database Architects90% · +57%
- Computer and Information Research Scientists86% · +58%
- Financial Quantitative Analysts85% · group pay
- Management Analysts82% · +15%
- Data Warehousing Specialists82% · group pay
Change into operations research analysts
Jobs whose skills carry over best (skill match, their median pay).
- Financial Quantitative Analysts91% · $81,100
- Logistics Engineers83% · $82,320
- Data Warehousing Specialists80% · $139,500
- Survey Researchers80% · $69,460
- Management Analysts76% · $101,860
Majors that lead here
- Operations Research
- Management Science
From the NCES CIP 2020 to SOC 2018 crosswalk.