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Operations Research Analyst Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Booz Allen Hamilton

Operations Research Analyst

Langley, VA · On-site

$69K - $158K/yr

Operations Research Analyst The Opportunity : As an operations analyst, you're passionate about exploring the root cause of an issue and then analyzing, reporting, and developing recommendations for ...

US Department of the Air Force

$49K/yr

... operations research knowledge to apply scientific methods and techniques to analyze systems, process and/or operational problems and procedures. 2. Ability to analyze, interpret and apply operations ...

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Operations Research Analyst information

See Virginia salary details

$43.1K

$101.6K

$134.8K

How much do operations research analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for operations research analyst in Virginia is $101,583.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $115,500.00 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.

Will AI replace research analysts?

AI can automate certain tasks performed by operations research analysts, such as data analysis and modeling, but it is unlikely to fully replace the role. Analysts' skills in interpreting complex data, making strategic decisions, and applying domain knowledge remain essential, with AI serving as a tool to enhance productivity and accuracy.

Is operation research a good career?

Operations Research Analysts analyze complex systems and optimize processes using mathematical modeling and data analysis. The field offers strong job growth, competitive salaries, and opportunities across industries such as logistics, manufacturing, and government, often requiring skills in programming, statistics, and problem-solving.

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.

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, develop solutions, and support decision-making in various industries, often using software tools like spreadsheets and specialized modeling programs. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of operations management are essential for this role.

Is a research analyst a high paying job?

Operations Research Analysts typically earn above-average salaries compared to many other roles, with median pay often exceeding $80,000 annually in the United States. Salaries vary based on experience, education, industry, and location, and advanced skills in data analysis and optimization tools can lead to higher compensation.
More about Operations Research Analyst jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Operations Research Analyst jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Operations Research Analyst jobs in Virginia are:
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What cities in Virginia are hiring for Operations Research Analyst jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Operations Research Analyst job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Operations Research Analyst jobs in VA? For Operations Research Analyst jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Operations Research Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operations Research Analyst job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $101,583 per year, or $48.8 per hour.
Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analyst

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Suffolk, VA • On-site

$127K/yr

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 519 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

This position is part of the Organization of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The incumbent is a senior level Operations Research Analyst and advisor to key Joint Staff officials on analytic issues that pertain to Joint Concept Program's future development and evaluation.Qualifications:You may qualify at the GS-14, if you fulfill the following qualifications:
A. One year of specialized experience equivalent to the 13 grade level in the Federal service:
  • Providing the analysis and evaluation of joint future concepts and their associated ways and means in the analysis and evaluation of joint future concepts.
  • Initiating, planning, and conducting studies and analysis that that examines joint warfighting concepts.
  • Expert knowledge in of operational assessments and operational analytical metrics in order to quantitatively and qualitatively capture the advantages/disadvantages of new approaches to complex operational challenges facing the future Joint Force.
  • Expert in analytical processes for identifying joint warfighting operational capability gaps, plus determining the measures and measurement collections devices to be used.
  • Utilizing expert research techniques to continuously identify, correlate, and assess Joint Force requirements, major Department of Defense studies, and global operational trends.
  • Employing advanced operations research and mathematical modeling-including capability based assessment and statistical analysis-to design and improve analytical approaches for Joint Concepts.
In addition to meeting qualifications, your application package must reflect the applicable experience to meet the Individual Occupational Requirements for the 1515, series as listed below: Degree In operations research; or at least 24 semester hours in a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or subject-matter courses requiring substantial competence in college-level mathematics or statistics. At least 3 of the 24 semester hours must have been in calculus.
You MUST provide transcripts or other documentation to support your educational claims. Unless otherwise stated: (1) unofficial transcripts are acceptable at time of application, or (2) If you are serviced by the office, filling this type of position, and your transcripts are on file in your official personnel folder, you are not required to submit. However, it is your responsibility to ensure transcripts are on file.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:Substitution of education may not be used in lieu of specialized experience for this grade level.
ARE YOU USING YOUR EDUCATION TO QUALIFY? You MUST provide transcripts or other documentation to support your educational claims. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable at time of application.
All materials must be submitted by the closing date of the announcement.
GRADUATE EDUCATION: One academic year of graduate education is considered to be the number of credits hours that your graduate school has determined to represent one academic year of full-time study. Such study may have been performed on a full-time or part-time basis. If you cannot obtain your graduate school's definition of one year of graduate study, 18 semester hours (or 27 quarter hours) should be considered as satisfying the requirement for one year of full-time graduate study.
FOREIGN EDUCATION may be qualifying if a private organization specializing in interpreting foreign education programs has deemed the foreign education equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program or a U.S. accredited college or university has given full credit for the foreign courses.
Unofficial transcripts from U.S. Department of Education accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions listing your name, the name of the school, the date and degree awarded, and the list of classes and credits earned are acceptable for the application process. If selected, official transcripts are required before a firm job offer is made. A photocopy of your degree/diploma is not acceptable.
When relying on foreign education, submit transcripts and a copy of the equivalency evaluation results letter with a course-by-course listing. Documents must be in English or include an English translation. The hiring employer for this position does not evaluate degrees from foreign colleges or universities. For further information, visit: Foreign EducationEmployment Type: OTHER

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