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Principal Operations Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MTSI is seeking an Operations Analyst, Senior Principal who will provide operational analysis and modeling and simulation support for acquisition and technology development programs focused on ...

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking an Operations Analyst Principal to support SAIC's Prime Program, Landmark AOS in Chantilly, VA. Landmark AOS is a large SETA program, supporting the NRO ...

Operations Analyst Principal

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking an Operations Analyst Principal to support SAIC's Prime Program, Landmark AOS in Chantilly, VA. Landmark AOS is a large SETA program, supporting the NRO's Ground ...

DataCT's core staff, CT Plan stakeholders, SIP Processors, auditors, and principal service ... The Operations Analyst is a key contributor to that mission. #hc232875

Principal Sales Operations Analyst

Waltham, MA ยท On-site

$16K - $174K/mo

We are seeking a Principal Sales Operations Analyst to join our team. This is a hybrid opportunity based out of Waltham, MA. Job Summary The Principal Sales Operations Analyst is an integral role on ...

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Principal Operations Analyst information

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How much do principal operations analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for principal operations analyst in the United States is $33.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $40.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal operations analyst?

Principal Operations Analysts are senior professionals responsible for analyzing, improving, and overseeing the operational processes of an organization. They use data-driven approaches to identify inefficiencies, recommend enhancements, and implement best practices across different departments. In addition to technical analysis, they often lead cross-functional teams, manage large-scale projects, and provide strategic guidance to leadership. Their expertise helps organizations optimize performance, reduce costs, and drive continuous improvement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal operations analyst?

To thrive as a Principal Operations Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, expertise in operations management, and a relevant degree such as business, finance, or engineering. Mastery of data analytics tools (e.g., SQL, Tableau), ERP systems, and sometimes Six Sigma or PMP certification is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills help you effectively drive process improvements and influence stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are vital for optimizing business operations, ensuring efficiency, and supporting strategic decision-making.

What are some typical challenges faced by principal operations analysts, and how can they be addressed?

Principal Operations Analysts often encounter challenges such as managing complex, cross-functional projects and ensuring alignment among diverse stakeholders. They may also face issues with data integration from multiple sources and balancing strategic oversight with hands-on problem solving. To address these challenges, it's important to leverage strong communication skills, utilize advanced analytics tools, and foster collaborative relationships both within the operations team and across departments. Proactively seeking feedback and staying updated on industry best practices can also help Principal Operations Analysts navigate these complexities effectively.

What is the difference between Principal Operations Analyst vs Operations Analyst?

AspectPrincipal Operations AnalystOperations Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, often advanced certifications in operations or analyticsBachelor's degree, relevant certifications optional
Work EnvironmentStrategic, cross-departmental projects, leadership involvementData analysis, process improvement, reporting tasks
Employer & Industry UsageLarge corporations, finance, tech, healthcareVaried industries, entry to mid-level roles

The Principal Operations Analyst typically holds more advanced certifications and works on strategic initiatives, often leading projects and collaborating across departments. Operations Analysts focus on data analysis and process improvements at an operational level. The principal role involves higher responsibility and strategic planning, while the analyst role emphasizes data-driven support tasks.

Are principal operations analysts in demand?

Principal operations analysts are in demand across various industries due to their expertise in process optimization, data analysis, and operational strategy. Organizations seek experienced analysts with skills in data tools and project management to improve efficiency and support decision-making, leading to steady job growth in this role.

Is a principal operations analyst entry-level?

A principal operations analyst is typically a senior-level role that requires several years of experience in operations, data analysis, or related fields. It usually involves advanced skills, leadership responsibilities, and expertise with analytical tools, and is not considered entry-level.

What does a principal operations analyst do?

A principal operations analyst is responsible for analyzing and improving business operations, identifying efficiencies, and developing strategies to optimize processes. They often use data analysis tools and collaborate with various departments to implement solutions that enhance productivity and performance.
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What cities are hiring for Principal Operations Analyst jobs?

Cities with the most Principal Operations Analyst job openings:

What states have the most Principal Operations Analyst jobs?

States with the most job openings for Principal Operations Analyst jobs include:

Infographic showing various Principal Operations Analyst job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,210 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

PRINCIPAL OPERATIONS ANALYST

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

PRINCIPAL OPERATIONS ANALYST
CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY
1st Deputy Commissioners Office
Number of Positions: 1
(additional vacancies possible pending budget approval)
Starting Salary: $85,368
Applications for this position will be accepted until 11:59pm on 09/07/2026
Under general supervision, functions as a technical expert or team leader in the design and conduct of a broad range of studies to improve operations, and performs related duties as required.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
โ€ข Meets with managers to identify the scope of problems and define the objectives of studies
โ€ข Evaluates complex business and operational systems and drafts detailed flow charts and models to assess current work methods and processes
โ€ข Interfaces with senior leadership, program managers, and external stakeholders to identify, evaluate and define opportunities for improved efficiency, cost-savings and process improvements
โ€ข Develops work plans and data collection processes for achieving study objectives
โ€ข Designs in-depth survey questionnaires, scannable data collections forms, and/or web-based data collection systems and uses statistical analyses to evaluate collected survey data
โ€ข Coordinates and oversees professional analysts in the conduct of operations studies
โ€ข Researches techniques, methods, and processes to obtain information on specific areas under review
โ€ข Develops and oversees the maintenance of databases used to collect and report on information gathered
โ€ข Constructs complex mathematical models and uses computer applications to evaluate data
โ€ข Writes, reviews, and edits reports and manuals documenting study results and recommending changes to improve operations
โ€ข Develops and presents new or revised processes, procedures, and work standards to managers
โ€ข Develops performance measurements for new or modified programs and procedures
โ€ข Monitors and documents changes to ensure their effectiveness and recommends modifications as necessary
โ€ข Works with managers and consultants in program implementation
โ€ข Designs computer applications to automate manual processes, as required
โ€ข Defines specifications for consultants responsible for designing programs that will replace manual operations
โ€ข Facilitates training for staff to ensure strategic work plans are developed according to established guidelines
Additional duties may be required for this position
Location: 400 S. State Street HWLC 10th floor
Days: Monday - Friday
Hours: 8:30am - 4:30pm
THIS POSITION IS IN THE CAREER SERVICE
Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
โ€ข Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree plus three (3) years of work experience in operations analysis, project management, strategic planning, program auditing or business management consulting, OR
โ€ข Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's degree plus two (2) years of work experience in operations analysis, project management, strategic planning, program auditing or business management consulting
SELECTION REQUIREMENTS
This position requires applicants to complete an interview which will include a written exercise and/or a skills assessment test as part of the interview. The interviewed candidate(s) possessing the qualifications best suited to fulfill the responsibilities of the position, based on the oral and written parts of the interview will be selected .
Preference will be given to candidates possessing the following:
โ€ข Proficiency working with qualitative and quantitative data analysis
โ€ข Experience in performing complex statistical analyses and operational modeling
โ€ข Experience developing and managing data collection, analytics and administrative processes
โ€ข Experience in government infrastructure management operations
โ€ข Microsoft Office Suite proficiency (MS Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint)
For information about City of Chicago employee benefits, please click here
For information about City of Chicago salaries and job titles, please click here
APPLICATION EVALUATION: Initial evaluation will be based on the information provided on the application and the documents submitted. Department of Human Resources staff will review applications after the final posting date. Staff will follow all required employment/hiring plan provisions, federal, state, and local laws, and collective bargaining agreements when applicable. Staff will apply hiring preferences as required by the municipal code. Placement on an eligibility list is not an offer or guarantee of an interview nor employment with the City of Chicago
COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY: To further our commitment to hiring applicants with diverse experience, the City of Chicago has adopted ordinances 2-74-020 and 2-74-075. The ordinances provide a preference to applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and who are veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States, residents of Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Areas (SEDA), and/or Chicago Public School (CPS) high school graduates. These hiring preferences do not apply to bidders. For positions covered by a collective bargaining agreement, bidders will be considered before external candidates. The learn more about our hiring processes, please click here.
ALL REFERENCES TO POLITICAL SPONSORSHIP OR RECOMMENDATION MUST BE OMITTED FROM ALL APPLICATION MATERIALS SUBMITTED FOR CITY EMPLOYMENT.
The City of Chicago in an Equal Employment Opportunity, Military Friendly, and Fair Chance Employer.
City of Chicago
Brandon Johnson, Mayor