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Operations Research Analyst Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Operations Research Analyst

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$215K - $250K/yr

This role brings deep operations research expertise to modeling, simulation, and analysis (MS&A) of complex space sensing missions - including wargaming, exercise analysis, test and evaluation, and ...

Operations Research Analyst

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$215K - $250K/yr

Taxable Entity MCCALLIE ASSOCIATES INC Job Title Operations Research Analyst Location CA Los Angeles AFB - El Segundo, 90245 US (Primary) Category Business Program Management and Administration Job ...

OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYST

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$121K - $158K/yr

You will serve as the OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYST in the Force Readiness Analytics Group (FRAG). Learn more about this agency Duties Help * You will conduct comprehensive cost analyses to identify ...

Operations Research Analyst

Fremont, CA · On-site

$107K - $127K/yr

Operations Research Analyst Job Duties: Building the data for service operation: * Collect and organize information from a variety of sources, such as ERP, portal databases, sales histories, and ...

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Operations Research Analyst information

See California salary details

$42.9K

$101.1K

$134.2K

How much do operations research analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for operations research analyst in California is $101,120.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,200.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Operations Research Analysts?

Operations Research Analysts are professionals who use advanced mathematical and analytical methods to help organizations solve problems and make better decisions. They analyze complex systems, gather data, and develop models to improve processes, increase efficiency, and reduce costs. Their work is essential in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, finance, and government. By leveraging techniques like statistical analysis, optimization, and simulation, Operations Research Analysts provide actionable insights to support strategic and operational planning.

Is operation research a good career?

Operations Research Analysts apply mathematical modeling and analytical methods to help organizations solve complex problems and improve decision-making. The field offers strong job growth, competitive salaries, and opportunities across industries such as logistics, healthcare, and finance. Success typically requires skills in statistics, programming, and problem-solving, often supported by a relevant degree or certification.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operations Research Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operations Research Analyst, you need strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills, typically supported by a degree in operations research, mathematics, engineering, or a related field. Proficiency with statistical analysis software, optimization tools like CPLEX or Gurobi, and programming languages such as Python or R is commonly required. Effective communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills help translate complex data into actionable recommendations for stakeholders. These abilities are crucial for delivering data-driven solutions that improve organizational efficiency and decision-making.

What are some common challenges Operations Research Analysts face when translating analytical findings into actionable business strategies?

Operations Research Analysts often encounter challenges in communicating complex quantitative findings to stakeholders who may not have technical backgrounds. Bridging the gap between advanced mathematical models and practical business decisions requires strong communication skills and a deep understanding of the organization's objectives. Additionally, analysts may face resistance to change when proposing new, data-driven strategies, so being able to justify recommendations with clear, accessible insights is crucial. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams helps ensure solutions are both technically sound and aligned with operational realities.

What is the difference between Operations Research Analyst vs Data Analyst?

AspectOperations Research AnalystData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in operations research, mathematics, or related field; often certifications in analytics or optimizationBachelor's degree in statistics, mathematics, or related field; certifications in data analysis or visualization
Work EnvironmentCorporate, government, or consulting firms focusing on optimization and decision-makingBusiness, marketing, finance, or healthcare sectors analyzing data trends
Employer & Industry UsageOrganizations seeking to improve operational efficiency and decision processesCompanies aiming to interpret data for strategic insights and reporting

Operations Research Analysts focus on optimizing complex systems and decision-making processes using mathematical models, while Data Analysts interpret data to identify trends and support business decisions. Both roles require analytical skills and often similar educational backgrounds, but their core functions differ in scope and application.

How much do operations research analysts make in the US?

Operations research analysts in the US earn a median annual salary of around $85,000, with salaries typically ranging from $60,000 to $120,000 depending on experience, education, and location. They often use analytical tools and mathematical modeling to improve organizational efficiency and decision-making.

What Is an Operations Research Analyst?

An operations research analyst works with a company to analyze relevant data to improve business operations. Their primary duties involve setting goals, identifying potential problems, gathering pertinent information, and then using a variety of analytical methods to come up with solutions. The job requires strong analytical skills as well as the ability to think critically. Additional qualifications include a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in operations research or management science, although many employers prefer a master’s degree. Those interested in a career as an operations research analyst must have research experience in an office setting.

What do operations research analysts do?

Operations research analysts use mathematical models, statistical analysis, and optimization techniques to solve complex problems related to logistics, resource allocation, and process efficiency. They analyze data to improve decision-making and often work with specialized software tools. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of programming or modeling languages are essential for this role.

Is a research analyst a good career?

Operations Research Analysts analyze data and develop models to improve decision-making and efficiency in organizations. The role typically requires strong analytical skills, proficiency with software tools like Excel or specialized modeling programs, and often a relevant degree such as operations research, mathematics, or engineering. It is considered a stable career with opportunities for advancement in various industries such as logistics, healthcare, and finance.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operations Research Analyst jobs in California? The most popular types of Operations Research Analyst jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Operations Research Analyst jobs in California? For Operations Research Analyst jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operations Research Analyst jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Operations Research Analyst jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Operations Research Analyst jobs? Cities in California with the most Operations Research Analyst job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Operations Research Analyst jobs in CA? For Operations Research Analyst jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Operations Research Analyst job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,120 per year, or $48.6 per hour.
Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analyst

Alutiiq

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$215K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

McCallie Associates, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Alutiiq, LLC, is accepting applications for a Subject Matter Expert (SME) Operations Research Analyst to support the U.S. Space Force's Space Sensing directorate's specialized programs office at Los Angeles AFB. This role brings deep operations research expertise to modeling, simulation, and analysis (MS&A) of complex space sensing missions - including wargaming, exercise analysis, test and evaluation, and assessment of advanced sensing concepts

This position will lead quantitative analyses that directly inform senior Government decisions on capability investments, architectural alternatives, and operational concepts for missile warning, tracking, and defense missions. Provide SME-level operations research analysis support to Space Sensing specialized programs and capability development efforts Lead modeling, simulation, and analysis (MS&A) activities using equation-based, numerical, statistical, and agent-based methods Develop and apply analytical models for cross-enterprise architecture studies, development plans, technology development efforts, and military utility studies Assess outcomes and evaluate plans for exercises, wargaming sessions, developmental and operational tests, and demonstrations Apply operations research and systems engineering best practices to problem definition, scientific assumptions, study design, and model validation Maintain configuration control of analytical models; support model V&V (verification and validation) per the SSC/SN Model Management Charter Develop MS&A documentation and training materials; conduct MS&A training for Government analysts Prepare analytical briefings, study reports, and decision support packages for senior Government audiences This opportunity is for a POTENTIAL CONTRACT award and is contingent upon the contract being awarded. Consideration for a potential contract may require a signed letter of intent.

If the contract is awarded, another position posting will be available on the Company Careers portal.Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility U.S. Citizenship Bachelor's degree in Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Systems Engineering, Physics, Industrial Engineering, or a closely related discipline Minimum 15 years of progressively responsible operations research experience, with demonstrated SME-level depth in MS&A, wargaming, or quantitative decision support Demonstrated experience supporting DoD or IC space, missile, or sensor system analysis Proficiency with operations research analytical methods (linear/nonlinear programming, simulation, statistical inference, decision analysis, agent-based modeling) Strong written and verbal communication; demonstrated ability to brief senior Government audiences Preferred Qualifications Master's or PhD in Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related discipline Prior direct support to SSC/SN, SMC, or predecessor Space Force / Air Force space organizations Experience with space-domain MS&A tools (STK, AGI suite, GMAT, custom space simulation environments) Familiarity with AF Analyst Handbook methodologies Expected salary range: $215,000 to $250,000 per yearActive Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility U.S. Citizenship Bachelor's degree in Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Systems Engineering, Physics, Industrial Engineering, or a closely related discipline Minimum 15 years of progressively responsible operations research experience, with demonstrated SME-level depth in MS&A, wargaming, or quantitative decision support Demonstrated experience supporting DoD or IC space, missile, or sensor system analysis Proficiency with operations research analytical methods (linear/nonlinear programming, simulation, statistical inference, decision analysis, agent-based modeling) Strong written and verbal communication; demonstrated ability to brief senior Government audiences Preferred Qualifications Master's or PhD in Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related discipline Prior direct support to SSC/SN, SMC, or predecessor Space Force / Air Force space organizations Experience with space-domain MS&A tools (STK, AGI suite, GMAT, custom space simulation environments) Familiarity with AF Analyst Handbook methodologies Expected salary range: $215,000 to $250,000 per year


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About Alutiiq

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Anchorage, AK, US

Year founded

1999

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