Operations Research Analysts
Operations research analysts use mathematical models and data analysis to help organizations solve complex problems and make better decisions. They work in industries ranging from manufacturing and logistics to finance and government, developing tools and strategies that improve efficiency, reduce costs, or optimize resource allocation.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against operations research analysts and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
An analyst might spend part of the week gathering data from different departments, then building mathematical models to test various solutions to an operational problem. Other time involves reviewing results with stakeholders, refining assumptions, or writing code for decision-support software. Much of the work involves moving between detailed technical analysis and translating findings into clear recommendations for management.
Who this work suits
Holland code ICE. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to enjoy investigating complex problems systematically and working with data, rules, and logical procedures. You're comfortable with detail-oriented work and tend to prefer roles where accuracy and established methods matter, while also finding satisfaction in the analytical puzzle-solving at the heart of the job.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Operations Research Analyst · Immigration and Customs Enforcement · Washington, District of Columbia · $102415–$158322
- OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYST · Air Force Special Operations Command · Hurlburt Field, Florida · $89508–$116362
- Operations Research Analyst · Missile Defense Agency · Multiple Locations · $143913–$197200
- Operations Research Analyst · Internal Revenue Service · Multiple Locations · $125776–$197200
- Operations Research Analyst · U.S. Special Operations Command (Army) · Fort Bragg, North Carolina · $111147–$144493
- OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYST · Air Education and Training Command · Maxwell AFB, Alabama · $106437–$138370
- OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYST · Naval Air Systems Command · Patuxent River, Maryland · $121785–$187093
- Operations Research Analyst · Defense Security Cooperation Agency · Arlington, Virginia · $121785–$158322
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | $102,710 | $129,880 | $160,220 | 770 |
| Virginia | $99,660 | $129,460 | $166,230 | 6,980 |
| Alabama | $82,210 | $115,630 | $146,970 | 550 |
| New York | $78,060 | $108,610 | $149,160 | 5,890 |
| Ohio | $66,380 | $103,620 | $128,060 | 2,600 |
| Idaho | $71,740 | $103,600 | $124,440 | 500 |
| Oregon | $80,620 | $102,170 | $127,690 | 2,710 |
| California | $79,990 | $102,100 | $131,220 | 10,620 |
| Delaware | $77,520 | $101,070 | $130,100 | 660 |
| Hawaii | $81,210 | $100,600 | $143,020 | 120 |
| Maine | $81,790 | $99,460 | $124,350 | 220 |
| Nebraska | $70,640 | $98,300 | $128,280 | 330 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against operations research analysts and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 15-2031.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.