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Operations Research Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Operations Research information

See Virginia salary details

$38.2K

$93K

$149.7K

How much do operations research jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for operations research in Virginia is $93,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,900.00 and $114,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is operations a high paying job?

Operations Research professionals often have high earning potential, especially with advanced degrees like a master's or Ph.D. and experience in data analysis, optimization, and modeling. Salaries vary by industry, location, and level of expertise, but the field generally offers competitive compensation compared to many other roles in management and analytics.

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.

Is operations research in high demand?

Operations research is a growing field with strong demand across industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. Professionals with skills in data analysis, optimization, and simulation are sought after to improve efficiency and decision-making processes.

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 can I do with a degree in operations research?

A degree in operations research prepares individuals for roles such as operations analyst, supply chain manager, or data analyst, where they apply mathematical modeling, optimization, and statistical analysis to improve decision-making processes. Skills in programming, data analysis, and familiarity with tools like Excel, R, or Python are often essential. These professionals work in industries like manufacturing, logistics, finance, and consulting to optimize systems and processes.

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.

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 do you do in operations research?

Operations research involves analyzing complex systems and using mathematical models, algorithms, and data analysis to improve decision-making and optimize processes. Professionals in this field often work with tools like linear programming, simulation, and statistical analysis to solve problems in logistics, supply chain, scheduling, and resource allocation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operations Research jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Operations Research jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Operations Research jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Operations Research job openings:
Infographic showing various Operations Research job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,000 per year, or $44.7 per hour.
OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYST

OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYST

Military Sealift Command

Norfolk, VA • On-site, Remote

$51K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Military Sealift Command rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 45 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
This is a public notice flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will not be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants must follow the directions in the "How to Apply" section of this flyer to be considered. There may or may not be actual vacancies filled from this flyer. Notice of Result letters will not be sent to applicants who respond to this flyer.
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Duties
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  • You will serve as an Operations Research Analyst ORA) applying state-of-the-art and information technology techniques.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Must be a US Citizen.
  • Must be determined suitable for federal employment.
  • Must participate in the direct deposit pay program.
  • New employees to the Department of the Navy will be required to successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit e-verify.gov
  • Within the Department of Defense (DoD), the appointment of retired military members within 180 days immediately following retirement date to a civilian position is subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326.
  • Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.

Qualifications
Your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-05 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
EXPERIENCE WITH RESEARCH METHODS, TECHNIQUES AND REPORTING METHODS IN ORDER TO EFFECTIVELY CONDUCT COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS, EVALUATE TECHNICAL INFORMATION, ORGANIZE AND PRESENT VERBAL AND WRITTEN RESEARCH ANALYTICAL REPORTS. EXPERIENCE OF THE PRINCIPLES OF WORK MEASUREMENT AND ACTIVITY ANALYSIS TO PERFORM ANALYTICAL ASSIGNMENTS TO MEASURE EFFECTIVENESS, EFFICIENCY AND PRODUCTIVITY OF VARIOUS AGENCY PROGRAMS. EXPERIENCE IN OPERATIONS RESEARCH, MATHEMATICS, STATISTICS, ECONOMICS AND ORGANIZATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS ANALYSIS. AND CONTINUOUS PROCESS IMPROVEMENT METHODOLGY AND TOOLS. EXPERIENCE IN THE USE OF COMPUTER SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS IN THE PREPARATION FINDINGS, RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS.
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1500/operations-research-series-1515/
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (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.
Education
In addition to meeting the basic entry qualification requirements, applicants must have specialized experience and/or directly related education in the amounts shown in the table below.
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.
Evaluation of Education:
The primary requirement of operations research work is competence in the rigorous methods of scientific inquiry and analysis rather than in the subject matter of the problem. Therefore, applicants should have sufficient knowledge of applied mathematics to understand and use the fundamental concepts and techniques of operations research methods of analysis. In addition, some positions may require knowledge of a specific subject area.
Courses acceptable for qualifying for operations research positions may have been taken in departments other than Operations Research, e.g., Engineering (usually Industrial Engineering), Science, Economics, Mathematics, Statistics, or Management Science.
The following are illustrative of acceptable courses: optimization; mathematical modeling; queueing theory; engineering; physics (except descriptive or survey courses); econometrics; psychometrics; biometrics; experimental psychology; physical chemistry; industrial process analysis; managerial economics; computer science; measurement for management; mathematical models in social phenomena; and courses that involved application of operations research techniques and methodologies to problems of management, marketing, systems design, and other specialized fields; or other comparable quantitative analysis courses for which college-level mathematics or statistics is a prerequisite. Courses in theory of probability and statistics are highly desirable, but are not specified as minimum educational requirements because to do so would possibly exclude some applicants who would otherwise be well qualified.
GS-07
1 year of graduate-level education or superior academic achievement
Additional information
This position is covered by the Department of Defense Priority Placement Program.
Several vacancies may be filled.
A tentative offer of employment will be rescinded if the selectee fails to meet the pre-employment requirements, including failure to report to any of the scheduled appointments.
Federal annuitant information: The selection of an annuitant is subject to the Department of Defense and Department of the Navy policy on the employment of annuitants. Policy information may be found at: http://www.secnav.navy.mil/donhr/Documents/CivilianJobs/FedCivAnnuitants.pdf.
Veteran's preference does not apply when selecting individuals under this specific hiring authority. However, if you claim veteran's preference, you will be required to submit supporting documentation with your application as described in the Required Documents section below.
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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
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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.
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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.

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