Operations Research Analyst
PrintWork Tasks
OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYSTS help companies use money, materials, equipment, and people more effectively. They are concerned with such issues as top-level strategy, planning, forecasting, resource allocation, performance, scheduling, production systems, transportation and distribution, and the analysis of large databases. For example, they may deal with check processing in banks, admissions scheduling in hospitals, or how much steel should be stocked in auto manufacturers. They gather information, consult a wide variety of people, and submit recommendations to management based on results of the analysis. They work with others in the company to implement the plan.
Salary, Size & Growth
- $69,500 average per year ($33.50 per hour)
- A medium occupation (62,200 workers in 2010)
- Expected to grow rapidly (2.2% per year)
Entry Requirements
Employers prefer to hire OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYSTS with at least a master's degree in operations research, engineering, business, mathematics, information systems, or management science, coupled with a bachelor's degree in computer science or a quantitative discipline such as economics, mathematics, or statistics. Dual graduate degrees in operations research and computer science are especially attractive to employers. Employers may sponsor training for experienced workers to help them keep up with new developments in their field.