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Operations Research Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

R&D Intern - Summer 2027

Burr Ridge, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Operations Research * Process Equipment * Process Chemistry * Heat Transfer * Food/Beverage and Water Applications * Cryogenic Air Separation * Hydrogen and Energy Supply System

R&D Intern - Summer 2027

Burr Ridge, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Operations Research * Process Equipment * Process Chemistry * Heat Transfer * Food/Beverage and Water Applications * Cryogenic Air Separation * Hydrogen and Energy Supply System

Serve as the central point of coordination across R&D, TPM, Operations, Supply Chain, Procurement, Logistics, Trade Compliance, EHS, and Quality, ensuring clear ownership and efficient handoffs.

Showing results 21-40

Operations Research information

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 quantitative analysis, mathematical modeling, and problem-solving skills, typically supported by a degree in mathematics, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages (such as Python or R), advanced Excel, and optimization software like CPLEX or Gurobi is often required. Outstanding communication, critical thinking, and teamwork abilities help translate complex data insights into actionable recommendations for stakeholders. These skills ensure effective analysis, informed decision-making, and successful implementation of solutions in complex organizational environments.

What can I do with an operations research degree?

An operations research degree prepares individuals for roles such as operations analyst, supply chain manager, or data analyst, focusing on optimizing processes and decision-making using mathematical modeling and analytical tools. Graduates often work in industries like manufacturing, logistics, finance, and consulting, utilizing skills in statistics, programming, and problem-solving. Certifications in project management or data analysis can enhance career prospects.

What does an operations researcher do?

An operations researcher analyzes complex systems and processes to improve efficiency and decision-making using mathematical models, statistics, and optimization techniques. They often work with data analysis tools and develop algorithms to solve problems in logistics, supply chain, manufacturing, and other operational areas.

What is operations research?

Operations research is a discipline that uses advanced analytical methods, such as mathematical modeling, statistics, and algorithms, to help organizations solve complex problems and make better decisions. Professionals in this field analyze data and systems to optimize processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. Operations research is applied in various industries, including logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, and finance, to support strategic planning and operational improvements.

What is the difference between Operations Research vs Data Analyst?

AspectOperations ResearchData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in operations research, industrial engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in statistics, mathematics, or data science
Work EnvironmentAnalytical teams, consulting firms, manufacturing, logisticsBusiness, finance, marketing, technology sectors
Employer & Industry UsageSupply chain, transportation, manufacturing, governmentRetail, finance, healthcare, tech companies
Common Search & ComparisonOperations Research vs Data Analyst

Operations Research and Data Analysts both analyze data to improve decision-making, but Operations Research focuses on complex optimization and modeling for large systems, while Data Analysts interpret data trends for business insights. Their roles often overlap but serve different strategic purposes in organizations.

What are the qualifications to get a job in operations research?

The qualifications to get a job in operations research typically include a bachelor’s degree and strong technical and mathematical skills. Data science, statistics, applied math, and engineering are all good subjects to study in college. It is also useful to have a working knowledge of the specific industry in which you work, such as logistics and delivery, healthcare, or business. More complex positions often require advanced degrees. In addition to these formal qualifications, programming experience with R or other statistical software and strong analytical skills are essential.

Does operations research pay well?

Operations research analysts typically earn competitive salaries, with median wages above the national average for many industries. Salaries vary based on experience, education, and location, and professionals often work with data analysis, optimization tools, and statistical software. Advanced skills and certifications can lead to higher compensation.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in operations research, and how can they be addressed?

Operations Research professionals often encounter challenges such as working with incomplete or imperfect data, translating complex mathematical models into actionable business solutions, and communicating technical findings to non-technical stakeholders. Successfully addressing these challenges involves collaborating closely with subject matter experts, utilizing robust data validation techniques, and developing strong communication skills to clearly convey results and recommendations. Additionally, staying updated on the latest optimization tools and methodologies can help streamline problem-solving processes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operations Research jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Operations Research jobs in Illinois are:
What job categories do people searching Operations Research jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Operations Research jobs in Illinois are:
Infographic showing various Operations Research job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Operations Research Analyst (with Working Knowledge of AI Tools for Regression Testing) / Interim...

Peraton

Scott Air Force Base, IL

$80K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 223 rated it services


Job description

Responsibilities

Peraton is currently hiring an Operations Research Analyst (with Working Knowledge of AI Tools for Regression Testing) - Joint Deployment and Distribution Enterprise (JDDE) for the Joint Distribution Process Analysis Center (JDPAC) at USTRANSCOM. 

Location: On-site at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois

Peraton is seeking an Operations Research Analyst to join our mission to provide analytical support to improve the nation's ability to move and sustain forces globally, leveraging platforms such as Maven Smart System and Palantir Foundry.

In this position, you will:

  • Provide support for Research, Development, Testing & Evaluation (RDT&E) for Modeling, Simulation & Optimization (MS&O) applications and prototypes produced in support of or being adapted for JDDE movement processes.
  • Support data analysis to ensure all designated ongoing and future RDT&E, Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS), and Government Off-The-Shelf (GOTS) MS&O applications progress to meet USTRANSCOM objectives.
  • Provide tool design, testing, and development expertise for MS&O capability development and implementation, with a focus on regression testing as new code is rolled out.
  • Assist with integration and transition of designated MS&O prototypes to support USTRANSCOM operational processes as required.
  • Write reports documenting data analysis, tool design and development, and test results.
  • Analyze operational activities to obtain a quantitative, rational basis for decision making through the application of logic, scientific, and economic disciplines and techniques.
  • Devise modeling and measuring techniques; utilize mathematics, statistical methods, engineering methods, operational mathematics techniques (linear programming, game theory, probability theory, symbolic language, etc.), and other principles and laws of scientific and economic disciplines.
  • Use Maven Smart System and Palantir Foundry for scripting and automating regression tests to ensure the reliability of legacy code as new code is deployed.
  • Apply a working knowledge of AI tools to write scripts for regression testing, leveraging available libraries and platforms to automate and validate code changes.
Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, Science, Economics, Mathematics, Statistics, Business, Computer Science, or similar fields and a minimum of 2 years of experience. 
  • Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience 
    • Experience using Maven Smart System and/or Palantir Foundry for data analysis or testing.
    • Working knowledge of AI tools and scripting languages (such as Python or R) for regression testing and automation.
  • Demonstrated analytical, quantitative reasoning, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience with MS Excel.
  • Familiarity with the Joint Deployment and Distribution Enterprise either as a former operator, planner, or enabling support function.
  • Enjoy working in a team environment with frequent customer contact and have excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills.
  • U.S. citizenship required.
  • Ability to obtain a DoD Secret security clearance (Interim Secret to start)
    • Ability to obtain a final Top Secret (TS)/SCI clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Active DoD Secret clearance.
  • Master's degree.
  • Degree in Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, Science, Economics, Mathematics, Statistics, Business, Computer Science, or similar fields.
  • Advanced familiarity with JDDE.
  • Experience with Python programming for scripting and testing.
  • Experience with MS Office including MS Teams.
  • Experience with R programming language.
  • Experience writing and automating regression tests using AI tools within Maven Smart System and Palantir Foundry.
Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$80,000 - $128,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017