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Temporary Operations Research Jobs in Detroit, MI

Research and resolve operational issues, escalating complex cases as needed while following ... If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical ...

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Temporary Operations Research information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$38.1K

$92.9K

$149.5K

How much do temporary operations research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for temporary operations research in Detroit, MI is $92,863.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,800.00 and $114,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary operations research job?

Temporary Operations Research jobs involve short-term positions where professionals use mathematical modeling, statistical analysis, and optimization techniques to help organizations solve complex problems and make better decisions. These roles may be project-based or cover for permanent staff on leave and often exist in sectors such as logistics, finance, healthcare, or manufacturing. Temporary Operations Research analysts typically gather and analyze data, develop models, and present actionable insights to improve processes or efficiency, all within a defined contract period.

What skills and qualifications are needed for a temporary operations research analyst?

To thrive as a Temporary Operations Research Analyst, you need strong analytical and mathematical skills, typically supported by a degree in operations research, mathematics, statistics, or a related field. Familiarity with optimization software, statistical analysis tools (such as SAS, R, or Python), and data visualization platforms is common. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication help you interpret complex data and deliver actionable insights to stakeholders. These competencies ensure you can efficiently analyze operations, recommend improvements, and support data-driven decision-making in a fast-paced, project-based environment.

What are common challenges faced by professionals in a temporary operations research role, and how can they prepare for them?

Temporary operations research professionals often need to quickly adapt to new teams and projects with limited onboarding time. They may be tasked with analyzing complex data sets or optimizing processes under tight deadlines. To succeed, it's helpful to have strong analytical skills, proficiency in relevant software (such as Python, R, or specialized optimization tools), and the ability to communicate findings clearly. Building rapport with permanent team members and proactively seeking context for ongoing projects can also ease the transition and maximize impact during the assignment.

What is the difference between Temporary Operations Research vs Temporary Data Analyst?

AspectTemporary Operations ResearchTemporary Data Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, or related fields; often some certification in analytics or optimizationBachelor's or higher in Data Science, Statistics, or related fields; certifications in data analysis or visualization are common
Work EnvironmentProject-based, often in consulting or corporate settings, focusing on optimization and modelingOffice or remote, focusing on data collection, cleaning, and reporting
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, logistics, supply chain, and consulting firmsCommon in finance, marketing, healthcare, and tech companies

Temporary Operations Research and Temporary Data Analyst roles share some skills in data handling and analysis but differ mainly in focus. Operations Research emphasizes optimization, modeling, and decision-making processes, while Data Analysts focus on data collection, visualization, and reporting. Both roles are project-based and often require similar educational backgrounds, but their industry applications and daily tasks vary significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operations Research jobs in Detroit, MI?

The most popular types of Operations Research jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Temporary Operations Research jobs in Detroit, MI?

For Temporary Operations Research jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Temporary Operations Research job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,863 per year, or $44.6 per hour.

Research Technician I (Temporary) - Department of Physiology

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI • On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

Full-time, Temporary

Posted 15 days ago


Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

289th of 619 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Research Technician I (Temporary) - Department of Physiology
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Technician I (Temporary) - Department of Physiology at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
The Research Technician I will provide technical support for laboratory research focused on genetically engineered mouse models and molecular biology. Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator, the successful candidate will participate in mouse colony management, perform routine molecular biology experiments, maintain laboratory operations, and support ongoing research projects. This position is ideal for a motivated individual seeking hands-on research experience in a collaborative academic laboratory.
Essential Responsibilities:
    • Maintain transgenic and knockout mouse colonies, including breeding, weaning, ear tagging, tissue collection, genotyping, and colony record management.
      • Perform routine molecular biology techniques including genomic DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis, plasmid preparation, molecular cloning, and related laboratory procedures.
      • Prepare laboratory reagents, buffers, media, and other research materials. Sterilize equipment and supplies using established laboratory procedures.
      • Maintain laboratory inventory by organizing supplies, monitoring stock levels, ordering reagents, and maintaining laboratory equipment.
      • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment in accordance with institutional biosafety, chemical safety, and animal care (IACUC) guidelines.
      • Assist with research experiments by preparing samples, collecting and organizing data, maintaining accurate laboratory records, and documenting experimental procedures.
      • Assist in organizing experimental results and preparing figures, tables, and summaries for laboratory meetings, manuscripts, grant applications, and scientific presentations.
      • Collaborate effectively with the Principal Investigator and other laboratory members to support ongoing research activities.
    • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Unique duties:
The successful candidate will join a collaborative research team investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer biology using genetically engineered mouse models and molecular approaches. This position offers extensive opportunities to develop technical expertise in mouse genetics, molecular biology, and experimental research while working closely with experienced scientists in an academic research environment. This position is particularly well suited for recent graduates seeking one to three years of full-time research experience before pursuing graduate or professional training.
Qualifications:
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Biomedical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
Experience:
Previous laboratory experience obtained through undergraduate research, internships, laboratory courses, or employment is preferred but not required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
    • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
      • Ability to work independently following training while contributing effectively as part of a collaborative research team.
      • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
      • Ability to maintain accurate laboratory records and follow established experimental protocols.
      • Strong time management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities.
      • Commitment to scientific integrity, reproducibility, and laboratory safety.
      • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications; experience with Excel for data organization is preferred.
    • Willingness to learn new experimental techniques and contribute to a dynamic research environment.

Preferred qualifications:
Experience with one or more of the following is desirable: Laboratory mouse handling and colony management Mouse genotyping DNA/RNA extraction PCR and agarose gel electrophoresis Plasmid preparation and molecular cloning Preparation of laboratory reagents and buffers Sterile laboratory techniques Laboratory inventory management
School/College/Division:
H06 - School of Medicine
Primary department:
H0606 - Physiology
Employment type:
  • Temporary Employee
  • Job type: Fractional Time
  • Job category: Staff/Administrative
Funding/salary information:
  • Compensation type: Hourly Wage
Working conditions:
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 1
  • Reposted position: No
  • Reposted reason: None (New Requisition)
  • Prior posting/requisition number:
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.

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