1

Operations Research Analyst Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Research Analyst ID: 1017 Location: Chicago More about this job > Description SG is a boutique technology company founded in 2004. We use technology and big data to solve real world financial puzzles.

We are seeking a Research Analyst. The ideal candidate will have an interest and basic understanding of financial markets and experience with python and big data analysis. Responsibilities: Analyze ...

Research Analyst

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$100K - $150K/yr

Position Summary As a Research Analyst, you will be an integral member of the Manager Research team within the Investment Department, responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and monitoring investment ...

... operations, market research, and growth-focused workstreams. THE ROLE As a Deal Research Analyst ... you will help identify promising markets, companies, products, operators, and investment or growth ...

The Research Analyst provides quantitative and qualitative research insights to support our sales ... offices/operations. This position is hybrid requiring 2-3 times per week in an office location.

New

Research Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24.04 - $33.65/hr

Supports the collection, organization, and analysis of research data, ensuring accurate and timely reporting of research and some clinical research data. * Performs various aspects of clinical ...

Research Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24.04 - $33.65/hr

Supports the collection, organization, and analysis of research data, ensuring accurate and timely reporting of research and some clinical research data. * Performs various aspects of clinical ...

Research Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

$28.85 - $38.46/hr

Grant operations. * Database management. * Team leadership. * Participant recruitment and ... Job Family Research Role Impact Individual Contributor Scheduled Weekly Hours 24 Drug Test Required ...

Research Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Job Summary The Research Analyst provides basic technical support activities related to scientific research projects. Complies with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies, procedures ...

As a Fundamental Research Analyst, you will be responsible for conducting research and monitoring news around the globe with the goal of discovering new investment opportunities. You'll work closely ...

... Analytics Description: PURPOSE: The role will focus on executing high-impact research initiatives ... Operations. POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES: * Ability to onboard quickly (within 2-4 weeks) and take ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Operations Research Analyst information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$44.8K

$105.5K

$140.1K

How much do operations research analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for operations research analyst in Chicago, IL is $105,550.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,500.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operations research analyst?

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?

Operations research analysts in New York City typically earn a median annual salary of around $85,000 to $100,000, depending on experience and industry. Salaries can vary based on factors such as education, certifications, and the complexity of projects handled, with some earning over $120,000 in senior roles.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Operations Research Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Operations Research Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Operations Research Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL? For Operations Research Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operations Research Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Operations Research Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Operations Research Analyst jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Operations Research Analyst job openings:
Infographic showing various Operations Research Analyst job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,550 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

Operations Research Analyst

U.S. Military Entrance Processing Command

North Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$118K - $154K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Summary
This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for STEM, Cyber Security, and Related Positions to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
This position will be filled on a permanent basis.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
  • As an Operations Research Analyst, you will:
  • Develop and apply policies, practices, procedures, and methods for strategic and operational assessment, program evaluation, business intelligence, and data analytics.
  • Lead, conduct, and communicate results of analytical studies and program evaluations that contribute to and underpin Command and higher headquarters problem solving and decision making.
  • Implement operations research methodologies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of Command operations and management processes.
  • Advise and assist Command, as a senior analyst, for principles, applications, and best practices in operations research, systems analysis, business intelligence, change management, project management, and related staff-action requirements.
  • Employ advanced state-of-the-art methods and disciplines in operations research, systems analysis, risk analysis, methods and disciplines to include developing performance metrics and measurement systems for strategic operational assessment.

Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
  • Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
  • This position has been designated as non-sensitive and requires a personnel security investigation.

Qualifications
Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience and education requirements described below. 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). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Basic Requirements:
Degree: Bachelor's degree or higher 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.
AND
Specialized Experience: To qualify based on your work experience, your resume must describe at least one year of experience which prepared you to do the work in this job. Specialized experience is defined as experience that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled, including Conducting complex analytical studies utilizing advanced operations research principles to evaluate organizational effectiveness; Designing predictive future-state business models to identify effect of policy alternatives on the organization. Delivering data-driven recommendations that shape long-range strategic visions for the organization. The definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-12).
Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience aloneno substitution of education for experience is permitted.
Education
FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/
In order to qualify for this position, based on your education, education substitution, or combination of education and experience, you must have either completed the education requirement, or will complete this requirement within thirty (30) days from the closing date of this announcement. If you will not complete this requirement within thirty (30) days of the closing date of this announcement, you will be rated as Not Qualified for this position.
You must provide appropriate documentation to reflect when you will meet the education requirement. Appropriate documentation includes: (1) Resume indicating your projected completion/graduation date; OR (2) Transcripts indicating your projected completion/graduation date; OR (3) A letter signed by the institution's registrar indicating your projected completion/graduation date.
Additional information
  • Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
  • You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
  • This position requires a 1 year probationary period during which the agency evaluates your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In making this determination, the agency may consider your performance and conduct; agency needs and interests; whether your continued employment supports organizational or Government goals; and whether it promotes the efficiency of the Federal service. Continued employment requires written certification that it advances the public interest.
  • Direct Deposit of Pay is required.
  • Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees.
  • If you have retired from federal service and you are interested in employment as a reemployed annuitant, see the information in the Reemployed Annuitant information sheet.
  • This is a Science, Engineering and Analysis Career Field position.
  • Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
  • Recruitment/Relocation incentive may be authorized if determined to be in the best interest of the Federal Government and requirements are met
  • Salary includes applicable locality pay or Local Market Supplement.
  • Payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized, based on a determination that a PCS move is not in the Government interest.

Expand Hide additional information
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
Help
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 windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
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.