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Operations Research Analyst Jobs in Vienna, VA (NOW HIRING)

Operations Research Analyst Priority: High - Immediate Hire Hybrid Opportunity - Must be local to the DC/VA/MD area and available to work onsite when needed. Clearance Requirement: Public Trust ...

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Operations Research Analyst information

See Vienna, VA salary details

$43.7K

$102.8K

$136.5K

How much do operations research analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for operations research analyst in Vienna, VA is $102,841.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,900.00 and $116,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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. The role often requires strong analytical skills and proficiency with tools like optimization software and statistical analysis programs.

What are popular job titles related to Operations Research Analyst jobs in Vienna, VA?

For Operations Research Analyst jobs in Vienna, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operations Research Analyst jobs in Vienna, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Operations Research Analyst jobs in Vienna, VA are:

What cities near Vienna, VA are hiring for Operations Research Analyst jobs?

Cities near Vienna, VA with the most Operations Research Analyst job openings:

Infographic showing various Operations Research Analyst job openings in Vienna, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,841 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Operations Research Analyst

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc.

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$80 - $110/hr

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Overview

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing results that matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.

The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.

The Acquisition and Technology Analysis Group within JOID specializes in the application of multi-disciplinary analytic skills to support multiple clients within the Department of Defense (DoD). These clients include the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD(RE)), Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment (OUSD(A&S)), DARPA, the Joint Staff, and USINDOPACOM. SPA provides critical decision support to enabling and executing a strategy of technological superiority and enabling the delivery and sustainment of secure, resilient, and preeminent capabilities to the warfighter quickly and cost effectively. Our team of experienced military, technical, and operations research analysts is skilled in evaluating military problems, identifying the driving factors, devising innovative approaches, collecting applicable data, developing necessary software tools, and performing thorough and timely assessments to inform technology and acquisition governance decisions to ensure U.S. military forces retain military superiority in the future.

We have an immediate need for an Operations Research Analyst to provide onsite support out of Alexandria, VA.

Responsibilities
  • We are seeking a passionate and dedicated professional interested in providing technical, data-driven support combined with strategy-informed operations research analysis. The ideal candidate will apply a passion for solving challenging, unstructured, and time-critical problems in both leadership and supporting roles. The candidate will participate in analyses, assessments, and workshops that integrate technical, operational, and programmatic aspects across various elements of the DoW. The individual will support cross-functional, high-performance teams conducting quantitative and qualitative analysis, including wargaming, to inform decision makers at the highest levels of the government, including the Secretary of War, Congress, and the White House. Candidates can expect to manage multiple tasks concurrently, often with constrained timelines. Tasks may be aligned to the individual’s expertise and interests but will often require individuals to rapidly learn and apply new knowledge and skills. Successful candidates will quickly be rewarded with leadership opportunities and direct engagement with external clients and stakeholders.
Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree and 4+ years of experience in qualitative and/or quantitative analysis supporting DoW or other relevant stakeholders
  • Experience analyzing the impacts of technology on future warfighting scenarios
  • Experience developing concise, well-written analytic products to inform decision making and presenting analytic results
  • Active DoW Secret clearance
  • Ability to work fully onsite based on client needs

Desired:

  • Master's degree in Operations Research, Engineering, National Security Studies, or similar field
  • 7+ years of experience
  • Active DoW TS/SCI clearance
  • Demonstrated experience in the following areas:
  • Analyzing ally and partner capabilities
  • Conducting and leading Operations Research Analysis and/or wargames at the campaign, mission, or engagement level in support of DoW customers and/or military operations
  • Applying intelligence data on near-peer adversary capabilities to support operational planning, analysis, or training
  • Assessing the operational impact of planned or conceptual weapon systems
  • Working on headquarters staff within OSW, Joint Staff, or the Services
  • Participating in DoW Requirements, Acquisition, or Science and Technology Development Processes
  • Developing warfighting scenarios to support analysis
  • Supporting DoW wargames, tabletop exercises, or workshops
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