How much does a operations research analyst make?

The median pay is $42.76 per hour — roughly $89,000 a year, with the real range running from about $27.43/hr (10th percentile) to $76.88/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Do you need a degree to be a operations research analyst?

The typical entry-level education is: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation level: extensive preparation (Job Zone 5 of 5).

What does a operations research analyst actually do all 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.

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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.

What it pays
Operations Research Analysts earn a median of $42.76/hr — about $89,000 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn $27.43/hr; the top 10% earn $76.88/hr. (Annual figures are approximate: hourly × 2,080.)

What you'd actually do

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.

How you get there

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation: extensive preparation (Job Zone 5 of 5).

The feel of the work

Much of the day is spent working solo. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)

Working for yourself

About 0% of operations research analysts are self-employed.

Who it tends to fit

This work tends to fit people who are analytical, organized and detail-focused and take-charge.

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Quick questions

How much does a operations research analyst make?: The median pay is $42.76 per hour — roughly $89,000 a year, with the real range running from about $27.43/hr (10th percentile) to $76.88/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Do you need a degree to be a operations research analyst?: The typical entry-level education is: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation level: extensive preparation (Job Zone 5 of 5).
What does a operations research analyst actually do all 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.

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