How to Become an Operations Research Analyst

Get Matched to a Degree for FREE!!

get matched now!
Degree description image

What Do Operations Research Analysts Do?

Operations research analysts help businesses solve problems and reach their goals. They do this through math and methods in analytics. For one, they gather info from sources like customers or sales records. Then, they use that data to suggest a course of action to improve sales. This could mean anything from changing prices to arranging products.

Analysts could work in many industries. A few are logistics, health care, and manufacturing. Their biggest employers are finance and insurance companies. No matter where they work, this role is growing. Jobs in this field should increase 23% between 2022 and 2032. That’s much faster than average.

Much of this growth is due to advances in tech. It’s now much easier for a business to collect data. Which helps lead companies to improve sales, operations, and cost efficiency. Analysts are the key link between raw data and insights that could help companies run better. That explains the demand for their services, plus their salary potential.

placeholder1140X599

What Degree Should I Earn to Become an Operations Research Analyst?

You could choose from a few degree paths. Only some schools offer programs in this field. But, you could also earn a related degree instead. Let’s go over some options:

Bachelor’s in Operations Research

This program covers problem solving. You’ll learn to model data, plus use math and CS to solve problems. Some programs focus on fields like management, engineering, and more. You may find programs like:

    • BA in Operations Research and Management Science
    • BS in Operations Research
    • S. in Operations Research and Engineering

Bachelor’s in Computer Science

CS covers how to use computers and networks. You could learn everything from computer architecture to how to program. And, you could learn how to use tech to work with data and solve problems. That’s key for someone in this field.

Bachelor’s in Business Analytics

Business analytics covers the use of big data in business. Big data is a term for massive data sets. Experts can use mining, programming, and analytics to draw insights from data. A business analytics degree program teaches these methods.

Bachelor’s in Mathematics

A math program may cover what’s called pure math. That means subjects like algebra, geometry, and analysis. The program could also cover applied math. That includes areas like CS and physics. You may find paths like:

    • BA in Mathematics: This program may offer more flexibility for electives. This could leave you room for courses like CS and statistics.
    • BS in Mathematics: The BS could help you prepare for grad math programs. It could lay the ground work for advanced study, like how to solve proofs. Since it’s more focused, there are fewer chances to take electives.

Bachelor’s in Engineering

This program covers how to design and develop solutions. That could be things from highways and bridges to software programs. It depends on your engineering specialty. In any case, you’ll take many math and science courses. These topics are useful for operations research analysts.

Some employers look for analysts with a Master’s degree. Again, your degree could be in any number of areas. You could study math, CS, business intelligence, or something else. But, some schools offer grad programs in operations research.

A Master’s in Operations Research program covers the skills to solve problems using data. You’ll study areas like math how to program, stochastic models, and simulation. Some programs offer fields of study. These could be in areas like health care, logistics, and finance. So, you could study topics that deal with your industry.

5 Key Skills for Operations Research Analyst

Operations research analysts may learn skills in school. While degree paths vary, future pros in this field take a lot of math courses. Some are veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. So, they may learn certain skills while in the military.

  1. Data analysis: This is the process of how to find useful info in data sets. Many tools and methods make this possible. Some are data mining and modeling.
  2. Research analysis: Analyzing info is a key part of research. This skill draws on the same tools and methods as data analysis. You could use these methods when doing research in your field.
  3. Microsoft Excel: Microsoft Excel is a program for making spread sheets. The program stores and sorts data. Tools in Excel help you work with and visualize info.
  4. Data Modeling: Data modeling is a way of planning or showing how to use data. By making a model, you can see how data is stored and used.
  5. Simulation: A simulation imitates a process or system. You could create a computer simulation that shows how something works. This is one way to plan before making or doing something.

How Do I Become an Operations Research Analyst?

You must earn at least a Bachelor’s degree. But, some employers want you to earn a Master’s degree.

Since there are few Bachelor’s degree programs in the field, most analysts study something else. This should be in a close field. Common programs include engineering, computer science (CS), business, and math.

No matter which program you choose, you’ll need to take a lot of math courses. Classes in calculus, algebra, and CS should help. Also keep in mind that many fields rely on operations research. Courses in areas like economics could help you in the field you’d like to work in.

Finally, military experience may be useful. This field of study is important to the gov’t and armed forces. So, veterans sometimes pursue this career path. For some roles, you may need a back ground check and security clearance.

Working as an Operations Research Analyst

California employs the most operations research analysts, with over 11,300 roles. It’s followed closely by Texas, Virginia, New York, and Illinois.

These and other states are home to companies in many fields that need analysts. These include gov’t and defense contractors. Northrop Grumman is a major employer in this arena. As an aerospace and defense tech company, they often hire these pros. American Systems is another gov’t services contractor that employs analysts. They offer IT solutions. Companies like these directly serve the gov’t and military. So, you may need security clearance to work for them.

Internet companies also need analysts. Facebook is no exception. This company hires experts who can use data to improve processes. The e commerce market place Amazon may hire one of these analysts for other reasons. These could include routing delivery trucks to help optimize efficiency.

The finance and insurance industry is also one to watch. For instance, companies like Invesco often hire analysts. This investment management company needs experts to interpret financial data. This informs risk management and investment strategy. The same is true for banks like JPMorgan Chase. Not to mention, financial services companies like American Express.

Someone in this field could even work in the research industry. Yes, some companies build around the work of research analysts! This is true of Forrester Research, a market research company. Forrester needs analysts to help turn data into insights.

Many other companies hire operations research analysts. But, these employers could be a good starting point as you explore some career paths.

Top Industries for Operations Research Analysts

These pros could work in any industry that needs to turn data into solutions. That said, some places are more likely to need them. These are:

IndustryAnnual Mean Wage
Federal gov’t$130,670
Manufacturing$108,410
Professional, scientific, and technical services$101,270
Management of companies$91,670
Finance and insurance$83,240

Professional Certifications for Operations Research Analysts

Operations research analysts may have their pick of skill based certs to earn. These could help prove your knowledge in anything from analytics to modeling. Here are some to check out:

Certified Analytics Professional

Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) tests and proves your analytics skills. It covers areas like data, model building, and business problem framing. Some employers may look for pros who have earned CAP cert. To get started, you should:

  • You could take a CAP prep course. Or, you can study on your own, using CAP guides and materials.
  • You must create a MYCAP account and apply. You’ll need to meet certain requirements.
  • Pass the exam. You must take a computer based exam that tests your knowledge of key subjects.
  • CAP must renew every three years. You will need to complete professional development units.

IWLA Certification Programs

Pros who work in logistics should consider these cert programs. IWLA offers them at many career levels. These include:

  • Qualified Ware house Logistics Professional (QWLP): This credential is for entry level logistics pros. You must attend two IWLA courses in ware housing.
  • Certified Ware house Logistics Professional (CWLP): This is the next step after QWLP. You must complete many IWLA courses and events, among others. And, you must have two years of experience in ware housing or logistics.
  • Executive Warehouse Logistics Professional (EWLP): This is the most advanced cert. You must have at least an officer level role with your employer. And, you must serve in many roles, like chair or co chair of an IWLA committee. Other requirements apply.

IBM Certification Programs

IBM offers many credentials related to its products. A lot of them could be useful for an analyst in this field. Some to think about are:

Professional Organizations for Operations Research Analysts

Joining a group may offer benefits for you. These include chances to learn, grow your career, and meet others in your field. Here are a few orgs to consider:

  • INFORMS. This is the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences. To join comes with many resources, like education programs and chances to network. INFORMS also offers the CAP cert. A regular membership costs $160 per year. Students can join for $39.
  • MORS. This is the Military Operations Research Society. It serves a range of experts, like defense analysts and researchers. If that’s your field of operations research, consider MORS. Member benefits include discounts, the chance to network, and resume posting. Regular membership is $100 for one year, $35 for students.
  • ACSM. This is the Association for Supply Chain Management. The group supports pros in this field. That may include operations research analysts who specialize in supply chains. Member benefits include learning, career resources, and the chance to network. CORE membership is $180.
  • Academy of Management. This global group is all about how to manage and organize research. It brings together many resources for learning and building a career. Members can also join more specialized sub groups. There’s one on operations and supply chains. Academics and execs pay $182 in dues. Students pay $91.

Top Salaries by State for Operations Research Analysts

StateEmploymentAnnual Mean Wage
Virginia7,720$121,120
District of Columbia2,230$116,320
Maryland3,730$112,450
New York5,980$111,860
Alabama570$112,400

Types of Careers in Operation Research Analytics

Market Research Analyst

Market research analysts examine market conditions to discern consumer preferences and pricing expectations for products. This involves scrutinizing sales patterns and consumer trends, alongside other market factors. Analysts utilize statistical software to analyze data and strategize future actions.

According to 2023 BLS data:

Median Salary: $74,680 per year

Job Growth Through 2033: 8% (Faster than avg)

Entry level Education: Bachelor’s degree

Logistician

These professionals play a critical role in managing a company’s supply chains. They analyze and oversee the movement of products from suppliers to buyers, ensuring a smooth process throughout the product’s life cycle. Their responsibilities encompass various phases, ranging from product design to disposal.

According to 2023 BLS data:

Median Salary: $99,410 per year

Job Growth Through 2033: 19% (Much faster than average)

Entry level Education: Bachelor’s degree

Management Analyst

Management analysts help improve how a business run. They gather info on how a company works, and what issues it has. That means they look at factors from efficiency to profit. They also look at data such as financial records and even personnel interviews. Then, they suggest solutions to managers. Management analysts may specialize in a certain industry, like health care.

According to 2023 BLS data:

Median Salary: $99,410 per year

Job Growth Through 2033: 11% (Much faster than avg)

Entry level Education: Bachelor’s degree

Statistician

Statisticians use math and statistics to solve problems. These could be in areas like business, engineering, and healthcare. First of all, these pros figure out what data they need to solve a given problem. They design ways to collect data, like surveys. Then, they use mathematical or statistical models to gain insights. They apply these insights to real world challenges.

According to 2023 BLS data:

Median Salary: $104,860 per year

Job Growth Through 2032: 11% (Much faster than average)

Entry level Education: Master’s degree

Economist

Economists study, research, and try to solve economic issues. These include challenges related to making and distributing resources, goods, and services. Economists tackle these problems by gathering and analyzing data. They use this data to draw conclusions and make predictions about the market. These insights can help inform businesses and governments.

According to 2023 BLS data:

Median Salary: $115,730 per year

Job Growth Through 2033: 5% (Faster than avg)

Entry level Education: Master’s degree

get matched now!

© Education Connection 2024. All Rights Reserved.

*https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d20/tables/dt20_311.15.asp

Sources for school statistics is the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics.

Disclosure: EducationDynamics receives compensation for the featured schools on our websites (see “Sponsored Schools” or “Sponsored Listings” or “Sponsored Results”).  So what does this mean for you? Compensation may impact where the Sponsored Schools appear on our websites, including whether they appear as a match through our education matching services tool, the order in which they appear in a listing, and/or their ranking.  Our websites do not provide, nor are they intended to provide, a comprehensive list of all schools (a) in the United States (b) located in a specific geographic area or (c) that offer a particular program of study.  By providing information or agreeing to be contacted by a Sponsored School, you are in no way obligated to apply to or enroll with the school.

This is an offer for educational opportunities, not an offer for nor a guarantee of employment. Students should consult with a representative from the school they select to learn more about career opportunities in that field. Program outcomes vary according to each institution’s specific program curriculum. Financial aid may be available to those who qualify. The financial aid information on this site is for informational and research purposes only and is not an assurance of financial aid.

1 You must apply for a new loan each school year. This approval percentage is based on students with a Sallie Mae undergraduate loan in the 2018/19 school year who were approved when they returned in 2019/20. It does not include the denied applications of students who were ultimately approved in 2019/20.

2 This promotional benefit is provided at no cost to borrowers with new loans that disburse between May 1, 2021 and April 30, 2022. Borrowers are not eligible to activate the benefit until July 1, 2021. Borrowers who reside in, attend school in, or borrow for a student attending school in Maine are not eligible for this benefit. Chegg Study® offers expert Q&A where students can submit up to 20 questions per month. No cash value. Terms and Conditions apply. Please visit http://www.chegg.com/legal/smtermsandconditions for complete details. This offer expires one year after issuance.

×

Sponsored Meaning Explained