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Operations Research Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operations Research Analyst

Mclean, VA · On-site

$69.30K - $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 a ...

Operations Research Analyst

Langley, VA · On-site

$69.30K - $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 ...

Operations Research Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$113.50K - $134.20K/yr

They are seeking an Operations Research Analyst to support modeling, simulation, and analysis of platforms and sensors, and to communicate results to government customers. Responsibilities : • ...

Operations Research Analyst

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$88.80K - $105.10K/yr

EIGHT (8) or more years of experience in operations research and analytics. * Experience in simulation tools and optimization techniques. * Experience with tools such as Python, R, or SAS for ...

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Operations Research Analyst information

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$43.5K

$102.5K

$136K

How much do operations research analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for operations research analyst in the United States is $102,462.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $116,500.00 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, 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 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.

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 cities are hiring for Operations Research Analyst jobs? Cities with the most Operations Research Analyst job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Operations Research Analyst jobs? The most popular types of Operations Research Analyst jobs are:
What states have the most Operations Research Analyst jobs? States with the most job openings for Operations Research Analyst jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Operations Research Analyst jobs? For Operations Research Analyst jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Operations Research Analyst job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 8% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,462 per year, or $49.3 per hour.

OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYST

Air Force Civilian Career Training

Tuscaloosa, AL • On-site

$91.40K - $108.10K/yr

Full-time

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


Job description

Summary The PALACE Acquire Program offers you a permanent position upon completion of your formal training plan. As a Palace Acquire Intern you will experience both personal and professional growth while dealing effectively and ethically with change, complexity, and problem solving. The program offers a 3-year formal training plan with yearly salary increases. Promotions and salary increases are based upon your successful performance and supervisory approval. Learn more about this agency Duties Help GS-07
  • Performs a variety of tasks in support of projects assigned to higher level analysts.
  • Performs special research tasks designed to utilize and enhance knowledge of work processes and techniques, and to afford an opportunity to apply the fundamentals of associated disciplines
  • Identifies sources of data and performs data acquisition and reduction.
  • Develops reports which summarize accomplishments and results of assignments, and presents findings within own organization.
  • Keeps abreast of emerging technologies and professional developments to remain current in the field and for application to work assignments.
GS-09
  • Plans own work procedures to be applied in support of projects assigned to higher grade operations research analysts.
  • Performs general operations research assignments consisting of a series of interrelated tasks or problems screened by a higher grade operations analyst.
  • Assists higher grade analysts in finding solutions to problems requiring a variety of data sources and operations research disciplines.
  • Develops written summaries and reports to be used by higher level analysts, contractors and/or customers.
  • Keeps abreast of emerging techniques and professional developments to remain current in the field and for application to work assignments.
Requirements Help Conditions of employment
  • U.S. Citizenship Required
  • Males must be registered for Selective Service, see www.sss.gov
  • Position may be subject to random drug testing
  • Employee must maintain current certifications
  • Student Loan Repayment may be authorized
  • Recruitment Incentive may be authorized for this position
  • Relocation Incentive may be authorized for this position
  • Grade Point Average - 2.95 or higher out of a possible 4.0
  • Must meet suitability for Federal employment
  • Successful completion of all training and regulatory requirements as identified in the applicable training plan
  • You will be required to serve a one-year probationary period
  • Mobility - you may be required to relocate during or after completion of your training
  • A secret, top secret or special sensitive security clearance may be required
Qualifications BASIC REQUIREMENTS: 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 may qualify if you meet one of the following: 1. GS-7: You must have completed or will complete a 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor's from an accredited institution AND must have documented Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) at the undergraduate level in the following: a) Grade Point Average 2.95 or higher out of a possible 4.0 as recorded on your official transcript or as computed based on 4 years of education or as computed based on courses completed during the final 2 years of curriculum; OR 3.45 or higher out of a possible 4.0 based on the average of the required courses completed in your major field or the required courses in your major field completed during the final 2 years of your curriculum. 2. GS-9: You must have completed 2 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master's degree or equivalent graduate degree: a) Grade Point Average - 2.95 or higher out of a possible 4.0 as recorded on your official transcript or as computed based on 4 years of education or as computed based on courses completed during the final 2 years of curriculum; OR 3.45 or higher out of a possible 4.0 based on the average of the required courses completed in your major field or the required courses in your major field completed during the final 2 years of your curriculum. If more than 10 percent of total undergraduate credit hours are non-graded, i.e. pass/fail, CLEP, CCAF, DANTES, military credit, etc. you cannot qualify based on GPA. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: 1. Professional 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 research rules and procedures in a variety of situations and recommend effective solutions to senior analysts. 3. Ability to perform extensive inquiry into basic data to discover facts or fundamental relationships. 4. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. 5. Knowledge of computer operations and standard software applications. PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week. VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Education IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: You MUST provide transcripts to support your educational claims. Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This position has an education requirement. You MUST provide transcripts to support your educational claims. Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. http://www2.ed.gov/admins/finaid/accred/index.html Please submit copies of all transcripts to include transferred hours. Official copies are not required at the time of application, but if selected you will be required to provide official copies of all transcripts.***NOTE*** Degree Audits are not accepted. If you qualify based on undergraduate education, but you have not graduated prior to applying for this position, you may be offered a position contingent upon your final grade point average or class ranking. FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. Additional information For DHA Positions: These positions are being filled under Direct-Hire Authority for the Department of Defense for Post-Secondary Students and Recent Graduates. The Secretary of the Air Force has delegated authority by the Office of the Secretary of Defense to directly appoint qualified post-secondary students and recent graduates directly into competitive service positions; these positions may be professional or administrative occupations and are located Air Force-Wide. Positions may be filled as permanent or term with a full-time or part-time work schedule. Pay will vary by geographic location *** The term "Current post-secondary student" means a person who is currently enrolled in, and in good academic standing at a full-time program at an institution of higher education; and is making satisfactory progress toward receipt of a baccalaureate or graduate degree; and has completed at least one year of the program. *** The term "recent graduate" means a person who was awarded a degree by an institution of higher education not more than two years before the date of the appointment of such person, except in the case of a person who has completed a period of obligated service in a uniform service of more than four years Employed Annuitants (Reemployed Annuitants): Applicants in receipt of an annuity based on civilian employment in the Federal Service are subject to the DoD Policy on The Employment of Annuitants. Click here for more information. Selective Service: Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered or exempt from Selective Service. For additional information, click here. Direct Deposit: All federal employees are required to have direct deposit. If you have questions regarding this announcement and have hearing or speech difficulties click here. Tax Law Impact for PCS: On 22-Dec-2017, Public Law 115-97 - the "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 suspended qualified moving expense deductions along with the exclusion for employer reimbursements and payments of moving expenses effective 01-Jan-2018 for tax years 2018 through 2025. The law made taxable certain reimbursements and other payments, including driving mileage, airfare and lodging expenses, en-route travel to the new duty station, and temporary storage of those items. The Federal Travel Regulation Bulletin (FTR) 18-05 issued by General Services Administration (GSA) has authorized agencies to use the Withholding Tax Allowance (WTA) and Relocation Income Tax Allowance (RITA) to pay for "substantially all" of the increased tax liability resulting from the "2018 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act" for certain eligible individuals. For additional information on WTA/RITA allowances and eligibilities, please visit: https://www.gsa.gov/cdnstatic/FTR%20Bulletin%2018_05%20Relocation%20Allowances_0.pdf 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. 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.