operations research analyst job

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OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYST

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information. The primary purpose of this position is: To serve as a senior operations research analyst in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Affairs (SAF/MR) and to provide expertise in initiating, applying, and planning major developmental studies and scientific work.

• Accepting applications

Open & closing dates

12/06/2024 to 12/12/2024

$139,395 - $181,216 per year

Pay scale & grade

FEW vacancies in the following location:

• Pentagon, Arlington, VA

Telework eligible

Yes—as determined by the agency policy.

Travel Required

Occasional travel - You may be expected to travel for this position.

Relocation expenses reimbursed

Appointment type.

Term - 30 JUN 2026

Work schedule

Competitive

Promotion potential

Job family (series).

• 1515 Operations Research

Supervisory status

Security clearance, financial disclosure, bargaining unit status, announcement number.

9L-AFPC-12631999-671532-TRC

Control number

This job is open to.

Current or former competitive service federal employees.

Federal employees who meet the definition of a "surplus" or "displaced" employee.

Clarification from the agency

Eligible NAF employees are considered under Hiring Path - "Federal employees-Excepted service"

• Employs scientific and analytical techniques to define, quantify, and evaluate the feasibility of assigned projects, studies, or problems.
• Review and evaluate study projects, proposals, and/or reports for adequacy of methodology, including the use or development of computerized models, ensuring the techniques used are valid and appropriate to the problem or issue identified.
• Serves as a consultant and Air Force level technical expert to senior subject matter specialists and/or agency officials responsible for broad program operations.
• Accomplishes professional development and maintains technical proficiency through professional interaction with technical and professional societies, associations, academia, symposia, contractors, research and development (R&D) organizations, and participation in formal training programs.
• Attends meetings, conferences, briefings, and seminars related to program planning, advanced technologies, and support system concepts. Serves on committees, working groups, and task forces for SAF/MRF.

Requirements

Conditions of employment.

• U.S. Citizenship Required
• Males must be registered for Selective Service, see www.sss.gov
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance.
• If authorized, PCS will be paid IAW JTR and AF Regulations. If receiving an authorized PCS, you may be subject to completing/signing a CONUS agreement. More information on PCS requirements, may be found at: https://afciviliancareers.com/regulatory/
• This position is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program
• A Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited institution in mathematics, computer science, one of the physical sciences, engineering or a closely related scientific discipline is highly desired. Advanced degree(s) are preferred.
• Work may occasionally require travel away from the normal duty station on military or commercial aircraft.
• Must exhibit a high degree of judgment, resourcefulness, originality, and the ability to foresee the impact of changing technology.
• Skill in identifying actual or potential problem areas, trends, and/or similar factors to improve Department of the Air Force program operations and management systems.
• Disclosure of Political Appointments
• Advance in hire may be authorized if there is demonstrable proof provided on your resume
• The employee is required to work other than normal duty hours, which may include evenings, weekends, and/or holidays. The employee may be required to work overtime on an emergency basis.
• Ability to identify the significant variables and determine their underlying relationships, as well as negotiate and/or defend findings and program support concepts.
• Ability to use advanced techniques and the modification and extension of theories, precepts, and practices of operations research and related sciences and disciplines.
• Leave accrual may be authorized upon request
• Ability to design, build, and use models and simulations techniques, including developing and applying artificial intelligence, machine learning, Neural Network principles, techniques, and applications (highly desired).
• Ability to design, build, and use very complex, sophisticated models to simulate real-world environments of many variables.
• This is a TERM position NTE 30 JUN 2026.

Qualifications

IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience, transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation. FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.

Additional information

Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP): For information on how to apply as an ICTAP eligible click here . To be well-qualified and exercise selection priority for this vacancy, displaced Federal employees must be rated well qualified or above for this position. You must submit a copy of the agency notice, your most recent performance rating, and your most recent SF-50 noting position, grade level, and duty location. Employed Annuitants (Reemployed Annuitants): Applicants in receipt of an annuity based on civilian employment in the Federal Service are subject to the DoD Policy on The Employment of Annuitants. Click here for more information. Current Federal Civilian employees may apply for temporary and term positions and if selected, a break in service may be required prior to appointment to the position. Temporary and Term Appointments: If you are selected for a temporary or term position in the competitive service, your appointment may be extended to the maximum period allowed by law without further competition. 120-Day Register: This announcement may result in a 120-day register that may be used to fill like vacancies for 120 days after the closing date. Applicants may be referred for consideration as vacancies occur. Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible: MSP applicants, if determined best qualified, must be selected and placed at the highest grade for which they applied. You must include a completed copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility for MSP. Click here to obtain/download a copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist. Priority Placement Program (PPP) Applicant Eligible: PPP Applicants, if determined well qualified and selected, will be placed at the at the full performance level. You must include the applicable completed copy of the PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility as a PPP Applicant. Click here to obtain/download a copy of the applicable PPP Self-Certification Checklist (DD3145-1 through DD3145-4, select the appropriate checklist for your claimed preference). To determine the applicable PPP Self-Certification Checklist required to substantiate the eligibilities you are claiming, refer to the AF Civilian Employment Eligibility Guide located in the Required Documents section of this vacancy announcement. Direct Deposit: All federal employees are required to have direct deposit. Disabled veteran leave is available to a Federal employee hired on/after 5 Nov 2016, who is a veteran with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or more. For more information, click here . If you have questions regarding this announcement and have hearing or speech difficulties click here . Tax Law Impact for PCS: On 22-Dec-2017, Public Law 115-97 - the "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017" suspended qualified moving expense deductions along with the exclusion for employer reimbursements and payments of moving expenses effective 01-Jan-2018 for tax years 2018 through 2025. When you perform a Civilian Permanent Change of Station (PCS) with the government, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) considers the majority of your entitlements to be taxable. Visit GSA Bulletin FTR 20-04 here for additional information.

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new window Learn more about federal benefits .

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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

Your application package (resume, supporting documents, and responses to the questionnaire) will be used to determine your eligibility, qualifications, and quality ranking for this position. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your rating or consideration for employment. BASIS OF RATING: Your application will be rated under the Cut Point procedures based on the extent to which the quality, depth, and complexity of your experience and education relate to the qualification requirements. Additional points are not added for Veteran's Preference; however, Veteran's Preference is considered where applicable. Best Qualified Group: Candidates in this category possess exceptional skills and experience to exceed well above the minimum requirements Fully Qualified Group: Candidates in this category possess good skills and experience above the minimum requirements. Basically Qualified Group: Candidates in this category meet the minimum education and/or experience requirements. The resume/documents you submit must support your responses to the online questionnaire. If your application contradicts or does not support your questionnaire responses, you will receive a rating of "not qualified" or "insufficient information" and you will not receive further consideration for this job. For additional information on what to include in your resume, click here . Applicants who meet the requirements for and apply as a non-competitive eligible that meet minimal qualifications and other requirements of this position, will be given consideration as a non-competitive candidate and will be referred unless blocked by an individual with priority/preference. APPRAISALS/AWARDS: Hiring Managers use objective methods and consider previous performance appraisals and awards in the selection process. Current Federal Civilian employees should list any relevant performance related rating and/or awards in your resume. Applicants who disqualify themselves will not be evaluated further.

As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.

• Online Application: Questionnaire
• Resume: For qualification determinations your resume must contain hours worked per week (if part-time) and dates of employment (i.e., month/year to month/year or month/year to present). If your resume does not contain this information, your application may be marked as insufficient and you will not receive consideration for this position. If you are a current Federal employee or previous Federal employee, provide your pay plan, series and grade, i.e. GS-0301-09. Current Federal Civilian Employees should list any relevant performance related rating (given within the last three years) and/or incentive awards in your resume. Do NOT include photographs (or links to social media such as LinkedIn ), inappropriate material, inappropriate content, nor personal information such as age, gender, religion, social security number, etc., on your resume.
• Transcripts/Registration/License: If qualifying on education/position requires education, you must submit copies of your transcripts and if required for the position, submit an active, current registration/license.
• Veterans: If claiming VEOA, VRA or 30% Disabled Veteran - Submit VOW certification memo or copy of the official DD Form 214, which must include the character of service (i.e., with an honorable or general discharge). This will be annotated in block 24 on member copy 2, 4, or 7 of the DD Form 214. If claiming 30% Disabled Veteran, you must also submit a VA Letter or a disability determination from a branch of the Armed Forces. NOTE: All veterans claiming 10-point preference must also submit a SF-15 form.
• Current or Former Federal Civilian Employees (includes current Air Force employees): You must submit a legible copy of a SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action . The SF-50, block 24 must contain "1" or "2" AND block 34 must be a "1". Employees eligible under an OPM approved interchange agreement , block 34 may contain a "1" or "2".
• Promotion Consideration: If you wish to be considered as a promotion candidate and your SF-50 has an effective date within the past year, it may not clearly demonstrate you meet the one-year time-in-grade requirements. You will need to provide additional SF-50s which clearly demonstrates you meet the time-in-grade requirements (examples of appropriate SF-50s include Promotions, Within-Grade, Grade/Range Increases, and SF-50s with an effective date more than one year old).
• Name/Rank/Grade of Service Member
• Branch of Armed Forces
• Dates of Active Service (Start and End Date(s)
• Expected Date of Discharge/Release from Active Duty
• Terminal leave start date (if applicable)
• Expected character of service (honorable or general) and type of separation (i.e. separation or retirement)
• Must be certified within 120 days of anticipated discharge
• Signature by, or by direction of the adjutant, personnel office, unit commander, or higher headquarters commander.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education .

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

• It is your responsibility to check the status and timestamp of all documents you submit as part of your application.
• If your resume includes photographs, inappropriate material, inappropriate content, or personal information such as age, gender, religion, social security number, etc., you will not be considered for this vacancy.
• For qualification determinations your resume must contain hours worked per week (if part-time) and dates of employment (i.e., hours per week and month/year to month/year or month/year to present). If your resume does not contain this information, your application may be marked as insufficient, and you will not receive consideration for this position.

Agency contact information

Once your application package is received an acknowledgement email will be sent. If you provided an email address, you will receive an email message acknowledging receipt of your application. Your application package will be used to determine your eligibility and qualifications for consideration. If you are determined to be ineligible or not qualified, your application will receive no further consideration. To check the status of your application or return to a previous or incomplete application, log into your USAJOBS account, select My Applications, and click on the more information link under the application status for this position. If you do not provide an email address, you are responsible for checking status updates and notifications in USAJOBS. Hard copy notifications will not be sent to you.

The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

• Criminal history inquiries
• Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
• Financial suitability
• New employee probationary period
• Privacy Act
• Reasonable accommodation policy
• Selective Service
• Signature and false statements
• Social security number request

Required Documents

How to apply, fair & transparent.

This job originated on www.usajobs.gov . For the full announcement and to apply, visit www.usajobs.gov/job/822485100 . Only resumes submitted according to the instructions on the job announcement listed at www.usajobs.gov will be considered.

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Operations Research Analyst Overview

Overall Score 6.0 / 10

• # 6 in Best Business Jobs
• # 10 in Best STEM Jobs
• # 15 in 100 Best Jobs

What is an Operations Research Analyst ?

Operations Research Analysts rank # 6 in Best Business Jobs . Jobs are ranked according to their ability to offer an elusive mix of factors. Read more about how we rank the best jobs.

• Job Market 4.3
• Future Growth 8.5
• Work Life Balance 5.7

How Much Does an Operations Research Analyst Make?

Job satisfaction.

Average Americans work well into their 60s, so workers might as well have a job that's enjoyable and a career that's fulfilling. A job with a low stress level, good work-life balance and solid prospects to improve, get promoted and earn a higher salary would make many employees happy. Here's how Operations Research Analysts job satisfaction is rated in terms of upward mobility, stress level and flexibility.

Opportunities for advancements and salary

Work environment and complexities of the job's responsibilities

Alternative working schedule and work life balance

How to Become an Operations Research Analyst ?

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• Operations Research Analysts: Jobs, Career, Salary and Education Information

Operations Research Analysts

Career, salary and education information.

What They Do : Operations research analysts use advanced mathematical and analytical methods to help solve complex issues.

Work Environment : Operations research analysts spend most of their time in offices, although some travel may be necessary to meet with clients. Almost all operations research analysts work full time.

How to Become One : Although the typical educational requirement for entry-level positions is a bachelor’s degree, some employers may prefer to hire applicants with a master’s degree. Analysts typically have a degree in business, operations research, management science, analytics, mathematics, engineering, computer science, or another technical or quantitative field.

Salary : The median annual wage for operations research analysts is $82,360.

Job Outlook : Employment of operations research analysts is projected to grow 23 percent over the next ten years, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Related Careers : Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of operations research analysts with similar occupations.

Following is everything you need to know about a career as an operations research analyst with lots of details. As a first step, take a look at some of the following jobs, which are real jobs with real employers. You will be able to see the very real job career requirements for employers who are actively hiring. The link will open in a new tab so that you can come back to this page to continue reading about the career:

Top 3 Operations Research Analyst Jobs

... operations . In addition, the position will play a major contributing role in the oversight of ... analytical and research skills are required, along with the ability to problem-solve and to work ...

Conduct comprehensive technical analyses of computer evidence, research and integrate new security ... Knowledge of Operational Technology (OT) or Industrial Control Systems (ICS) * Strong analytical ...

This position is responsible for coordinating the day-to-day operations and maintenance facility ... conducting research ; participating in interviews; administering customer, organizational or ...

See all Operations Research Analyst jobs

What Operations Research Analysts Do [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Operations research analysts use advanced mathematical and analytical methods to help organizations solve problems and make better decisions.

Duties of Operations Research Analysts

Operations research analysts typically do the following:

• Identify and solve problems in areas such as business, logistics, healthcare, or other fields
• Collect and organize information from a variety of sources, such as computer databases, sales histories, and customer feedback
• Gather input from workers involved in all aspects of a problem or from others who have specialized knowledge, so that they can help solve the problem
• Examine information to figure out what is relevant to a problem and what methods might be used to analyze it
• Use statistical analysis, simulations, predictive modeling, or other methods to analyze information and develop practical solutions to business problems
• Advise managers and other decisionmakers on the effects of various courses of action to take in order to address a problem
• Write memos, reports, and other documents explaining their findings and recommendations for managers, executives, and other officials

Operations research analysts are involved in all aspects of an organization. They help managers decide how to allocate resources, develop production schedules, manage the supply chain, and set prices. For example, they may help decide how to organize products in supermarkets or help companies figure out the most effective way to ship and distribute products.

Analysts must first identify and understand the problem to be solved or the processes to be improved. Analysts typically collect relevant data from the field and interview clients or managers involved in the business processes being examined. Analysts show the implications of pursuing different actions and may assist in achieving a consensus on how to proceed.

Operations research analysts use sophisticated computer software, such as databases and statistical packages, to analyze and solve problems. Analysts use statistical software to simulate current and future events and evaluate alternative courses of action. Analysts break down problems into their various parts and analyze the effect that different changes and circumstances would have on each of these parts. For example, to help an airline schedule flights and decide what to charge for tickets, analysts may take into account the cities that have to be connected, the amount of fuel required to fly those routes, the expected number of passengers, pilots' schedules, maintenance costs, and fuel prices.

There is no one way to solve a problem, and analysts must weigh the costs and benefits of alternative solutions or approaches in their recommendations to managers.

Because problems are complex and often require expertise from many disciplines, most analysts work on teams. Once a manager reaches a final decision, these teams may work with others in the organization to ensure that the plan is successful.

Work Environment for Operations Research Analysts [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Operations research analysts hold about 104,200 jobs. The largest employers of operations research analysts are as follows:

Some operations research analysts in the federal government work for the Department of Defense, which also employs analysts through private consulting firms.

Operations research analysts spend much of their time in office settings. They may travel to gather information, observe business processes, work with clients, or attend conferences.

Operations Research Analyst Work Schedules

Most operations research analysts work full time.

How to Become an Operations Research Analyst [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Get the education you need: Find schools for Operations Research Analysts near you!

Although the typical educational requirement for entry-level positions is a bachelor's degree, some employers may prefer to hire applicants with a master's degree. Because few schools offer bachelor's and advanced degree programs in operations research, analysts typically have degrees in other related fields.

Education for Operations Research Analysts

Many entry-level positions are available for those with a bachelor's degree. However, some employers may prefer to hire applicants with a master's degree.

Although some schools offer bachelor's and advanced degree programs in operations research, some analysts have degrees in other technical or quantitative fields, such as engineering, computer science, analytics, or mathematics.

Because operations research is based on quantitative analysis, students need extensive coursework in mathematics. Courses include statistics, calculus, and linear algebra. Coursework in computer science is important because analysts rely on advanced statistical and database software to analyze and model data. Courses in other areas, such as engineering, economics, and political science, are useful because operations research is a multidisciplinary field with a wide variety of applications.

Continuing education is important for operations research analysts. Keeping up with advances in technology, software tools, and improved analytical methods is vital.

Other Experience for Operations Research Analysts

Some operations research analysts are veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. Certain positions may require applicants to undergo a background check in order to obtain a security clearance.

Important Qualities for Operations Research Analysts

Analytical skills. Operations research analysts use a wide range of methods, such as forecasting, data mining, and statistical analysis, to examine and interpret data. They must determine the appropriate software packages and understand computer programming languages to design and develop new techniques and models.

Communication skills. Operations research analysts often present their data and conclusions to managers and other executives. They also need to communicate technical information to people without a technical background.

Critical-thinking skills. Operations research analysts must be able to figure out what information is relevant to their work. They also must be able to evaluate the costs and benefits of alternative solutions before making a recommendation.

Interpersonal skills. Operations research analysts typically work on teams. They also need to be able to convince managers and top executives to accept their recommendations.

Math skills. The models and methods used by operations research analysts are rooted in statistics, calculus, linear algebra, and other advanced mathematical disciplines.

Problem-solving skills. Operations research analysts need to be able to diagnose problems on the basis of information given to them by others. They then analyze relevant information to solve the problems.

Writing skills. Operations research analysts write memos, reports, and other documents explaining their findings and recommendations.

Operations Research Analyst Salaries [ About this section ] [ More salary/earnings info ] [ To Top ]

The median annual wage for operations research analysts is $82,360. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $48,690, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $160,850.

The median annual wages for operations research analysts in the top industries in which they work are as follows:

Job Outlook for Operations Research Analysts [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Employment of operations research analysts is projected to grow 23 percent over the next ten years, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 10,300 openings for operations research analysts are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Employment of Operations Research Analysts

As technology advances and companies and government agencies seek efficiency and cost savings, demand for operations research analysis should continue to grow. In addition, increasing demand should occur for these workers in the field of analytics to improve business planning and decision making.

Technological advances have made it faster and easier for organizations to get data. Operations research analysts manage and evaluate data to improve business operations, supply chains, pricing models, and marketing. In addition, improvements in analytical software have made operations research more affordable and applicable to a wider range of areas. More companies are expected to employ operations research analysts to help them turn data into information that managers use to make decisions about all aspects of their business.

Careers Related to Operations Research Analysts [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Data scientists.

Data scientists use analytical tools and techniques to extract meaningful insights from data.

Economists study the production and distribution of resources, goods, and services by collecting and analyzing data, researching trends, and evaluating economic issues.

Industrial Engineers

Industrial engineers find ways to eliminate wastefulness in production processes. They devise efficient systems that integrate workers, machines, materials, information, and energy to make a product or provide a service.

Logisticians

Logisticians analyze and coordinate an organization's supply chain—the system that moves a product from supplier to consumer. They manage the entire life cycle of a product, which includes how a product is acquired, allocated, and delivered.

Management Analysts

Management analysts, often called management consultants, propose ways to improve an organization's efficiency. They advise managers on how to make organizations more profitable through reduced costs and increased revenues.

Market Research Analysts

Market research analysts study market conditions to examine potential sales of a product or service. They help companies understand what products people want, who will buy them, and at what price.

Mathematicians and Statisticians

Mathematicians and statisticians analyze data and apply mathematical and statistical techniques to help solve real-world problems in business, engineering, healthcare, or other fields.

Software Developers

Software developers are the creative minds behind computer programs. Some develop the applications that allow people to do specific tasks on a computer or another device. Others develop the underlying systems that run the devices or that control networks.

More Operations Research Analyst Information [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

For more information about operations research analysts, visit

Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences

Military Operations Research Society

A portion of the information on this page is used by permission of the U.S. Department of Labor.

Explore more careers: View all Careers or the Top 30 Career Profiles

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What does an operations research analyst do?

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What is an Operations Research Analyst?

An operations research analyst applies advanced analytical and mathematical techniques to solve complex problems and optimize decision-making in various industries. These analysts use mathematical modeling, statistical analysis, and computer simulations to analyze and improve organizational processes, systems, and resource allocation. They work with large sets of data and develop mathematical models and algorithms to assist in decision-making, improve efficiency, and maximize outcomes.

Operations research analysts work on a wide range of problems, including supply chain optimization, production planning, scheduling, inventory management, logistics, and facility layout. They use their expertise to formulate and solve mathematical models that represent real-world scenarios, considering factors such as constraints, uncertainties, and objectives. By analyzing data and running simulations, they can evaluate different scenarios and recommend the best course of action to optimize performance, reduce costs, increase productivity, and improve overall operational efficiency.

What does an Operations Research Analyst do?

Operations research applies quantitative methods and analytical techniques to improve processes, systems, and resource allocation in various industries.

Duties and Responsibilities The duties and responsibilities of an operations research analyst can vary depending on the specific industry, organization, and project requirements. However, here are some common responsibilities associated with this role:

• Problem Identification and Formulation: Operations research analysts work closely with stakeholders to understand the objectives and challenges of a given problem or decision-making process. They identify the key variables, constraints, and objectives and translate them into a mathematical or analytical model.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Analysts gather relevant data from various sources, including databases, surveys, and other sources. They clean and preprocess the data, perform statistical analysis, and apply mathematical modeling techniques to derive insights and patterns.
• Mathematical Modeling and Optimization: Operations research analysts develop mathematical models, algorithms, and optimization techniques to represent the problem at hand. They use tools such as linear programming, integer programming, simulation, and other techniques to analyze the model and identify optimal solutions or decision-making strategies.
• Simulation and Scenario Analysis: Analysts utilize simulation tools and techniques to model complex systems and evaluate different scenarios. They run simulations to assess the impact of various decisions, policies, or system changes on performance metrics and outcomes.
• Decision Support and Recommendations: Based on the analysis and optimization results, operations research analysts provide decision support to stakeholders. They interpret the findings, present recommendations, and communicate the implications of different options to assist in informed decision-making.
• Implementation and Monitoring: Analysts collaborate with relevant teams to implement recommended solutions or changes. They may assist in the deployment of new systems, processes, or strategies and monitor their effectiveness to ensure that the desired outcomes are achieved.
• Continuous Improvement and Research: Operations research analysts stay updated with advancements in the field, continuously explore new techniques and methodologies, and contribute to research and development efforts. They seek opportunities for process improvement and provide ongoing support to optimize operations and decision-making.
• Collaboration and Communication: Analysts work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, stakeholders, and subject matter experts. They communicate complex analytical concepts and findings in a clear and concise manner, both verbally and through reports or presentations.

Fields of Work While operations research analysts can be employed in a wide range of industries, their expertise is particularly valuable in sectors that involve complex operational and logistical challenges. Some common fields where operations research analysts are employed include:

• Transportation and Logistics: Operations research analysts play a vital role in optimizing transportation networks, improving route planning, scheduling, and resource allocation for shipping, distribution, and supply chain management.
• Manufacturing and Production: Operations research analysts work on optimizing production planning, inventory management, scheduling, and facility layout to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve productivity in manufacturing and production processes.
• Healthcare: In the healthcare industry, operations research analysts analyze patient flow, resource allocation, hospital scheduling, healthcare delivery optimization, and healthcare resource planning to improve operational efficiency and patient outcomes.
• Finance and Risk Management: Operations research analysts apply mathematical models and optimization techniques to analyze financial markets, portfolio management, risk assessment, and risk management to help financial institutions make informed decisions and mitigate risks.
• Energy and Utilities: Operations research analysts contribute to optimizing energy production and distribution systems, grid management, resource allocation, and demand forecasting to improve energy efficiency and ensure reliable supply.
• Defense and Homeland Security: Operations research analysts work on strategic planning, resource allocation, logistics, and decision support systems to optimize military operations, defense planning, and homeland security initiatives.
• Consulting and Analytics: Many operations research analysts work in consulting firms or analytics companies, where they provide expertise in optimization, decision support, and data analysis to clients across multiple industries.

Types of Operations Research Analysts Operations research analysts can specialize in different areas based on their expertise and interests. Here are some common types of operations research analysts:

• Supply Chain Analyst: Supply chain analysts focus on optimizing supply chain operations, including demand forecasting, inventory management, distribution network design, transportation optimization, and supplier management. They work on improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing overall supply chain performance.
• Production Planning Analyst: Production planning analysts specialize in optimizing production processes, capacity planning, scheduling, and resource allocation. They develop mathematical models and algorithms to determine the optimal production plan, considering factors such as machine capacity, labor availability, material constraints, and customer demand.
• Pricing Analyst: Pricing analysts focus on developing pricing strategies and models to maximize revenue and profitability. They use mathematical optimization and statistical analysis techniques to analyze market demand, competitor pricing, cost structures, and customer behavior, helping organizations set optimal prices for products and services.
• Financial Analyst : Financial analysts apply operations research techniques to financial planning, risk management, portfolio optimization, and investment decision-making. They develop models and algorithms to analyze financial data, evaluate investment options, and optimize financial performance while considering risk factors.
• Healthcare Analyst: Healthcare analysts apply operations research methods to optimize healthcare delivery systems, resource allocation, patient flow, and healthcare quality. They develop models and algorithms to improve hospital operations, appointment scheduling, staffing, and resource utilization in order to enhance patient outcomes and efficiency.
• Risk Analyst: Risk analysts specialize in assessing and managing risks in various industries. They develop mathematical models and simulation techniques to evaluate and mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions, financial investments, project management, and other operational areas.
• Decision Support Analyst: Decision support analysts assist organizations in making informed decisions by providing analytical insights and recommendations. They develop decision support systems, models, and visualization tools that help stakeholders understand complex data, evaluate options, and select the best course of action.
• Optimization Analyst: Optimization analysts focus on solving complex optimization problems using mathematical programming techniques. They develop and implement optimization models to address problems such as resource allocation, workforce scheduling, facility location, and network optimization.

Are you suited to be an operations research analyst?

Operations research analysts have distinct personalities . They tend to be investigative individuals, which means they’re intellectual, introspective, and inquisitive. They are curious, methodical, rational, analytical, and logical. Some of them are also conventional, meaning they’re conscientious and conservative.

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What is the workplace of an Operations Research Analyst like?

Operations research analysts typically work in office settings, whether it's within a company or a consulting firm. They may also work remotely or engage in a combination of on-site and remote work, especially in situations where data and analysis can be accessed electronically. Their work involves extensive use of computers and specialized software tools for mathematical modeling, data analysis, and simulation.

Collaboration is an essential aspect of the work environment for operations research analysts. They often work closely with cross-functional teams, including managers, engineers, data scientists, and subject matter experts. This collaboration is important to gather relevant data, understand business processes, and gain insights into the problem or decision-making context. Operations research analysts may participate in meetings, workshops, or project teams to discuss findings, share progress, and align on goals.

The nature of their work also involves data-intensive tasks. Operations research analysts spend a significant amount of time collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to inform their models and simulations. They use statistical software, programming languages, and database tools to process and manipulate large datasets. Additionally, they apply mathematical modeling techniques and optimization algorithms to derive insights, explore different scenarios, and identify optimal solutions.

In terms of work schedule, operations research analysts typically work full-time, following regular business hours. However, project deadlines or urgent issues may require flexibility and occasional overtime to meet deliverables. The workload can vary depending on the complexity and scope of the projects they are involved in.

Operations Research Analysts are also known as: OR Analyst Operations Analyst