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Career Exploration

Operations Research Analysts

Also called: Advanced Analytics Associate, Analytical Strategist, Decision Analyst, Operations Research Analyst

What they do:

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.

On the job, you would:
  • Formulate mathematical or simulation models of problems, relating constants and variables, restrictions, alternatives, conflicting objectives, and their numerical parameters.
  • Perform validation and testing of models to ensure adequacy, and reformulate models, as necessary.
  • Collaborate with senior managers and decision makers to identify and solve a variety of problems and to clarify management objectives.
On the job, you'll need:

Math and Science

  • arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics

Arts and Humanities

  • English language

Engineering and Technology

  • computers and electronics
  • product and service development

Business

  • management

Basic Skills

  • using math to solve problems
  • thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

People and Technology Systems

  • measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it
  • thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Math

  • choose the right type of math to solve a problem
  • add, subtract, multiply, or divide

Verbal

  • read and understand what is written
  • communicate by speaking

Ideas and Logic

  • make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
  • use rules to solve problems

Investigative

People interested in this work like activities that include ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.

  • Analytical Thinking
  • Integrity
  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Innovation
  • Achievement/Effort

Analytical or scientific software

  • IBM SPSS Statistics
  • The MathWorks MATLAB

Word processing software

  • Google Docs
  • Microsoft Word

Operating system software

  • Bash
  • UNIX Shell

Video courtesy of CareerOneStop.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for this position is Bright.

New job opportunities are very likely in the future. This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.

Median Annual Salary: $85,720

Education

Master's degree or bachelor's degree is usually needed.