operations research phd salary

Salary for an Operations Research Ph.D. Graduate

• ')" data-event="social share" data-info="Pinterest" aria-label="Share on Pinterest">
• ')" data-event="social share" data-info="Reddit" aria-label="Share on Reddit">
• ')" data-event="social share" data-info="Flipboard" aria-label="Share on Flipboard">

Job Description of an Operations Coordinator

List of economics jobs with a bachelor's degree, mathematical statistician job description.

• Careers That Make a Lot of Money With Math
• The Best College Degree to Become a Mortgage Banker

Operations research involves the flow and allocation of people, inventory, equipment and information. The solutions to logistical issues impact the organizations ability and costs of providing goods and services, what consumers and institutions pay for them and the provision of public safety and security. If you pursue a Ph.D. in operations research, you explore cutting-edge theories in logistics that you can share with students, government officials and leaders of industry and finance.

Teaching in Business Schools

A Ph.D. is often a path to a faculty position at a business school. According to a survey of The Association to Advance Collegiate Business Schools, business school professors earned on average $140,600 in 2011. Assistant professors made an average salary $117,400. For assistant professors, the mean salary in 2011 was $116,900, according to the survey.

Defending a Nation

Operations research helps the military plan battles, flights, rescues and other missions and activities. Analysts study troop levels; the flow of vehicles, tanks, aircraft and ships and the cost and effectiveness of weapons systems. Mathematical and statistical models are your tools. With your Ph.D. and work experience, you can earn as much as $116,901 as an operations research analyst in the Navy and $147,857 as an operations research analyst in the Air Force.

Flow of Information

With a Ph.D. in operations research, you can land jobs with computer, software and information technology companies or in government information technology departments, often in management. Computer and information system managers assess their firm's technology needs and set policies for meeting them; they may also and may test or oversee testing and analysis of their company's risk for computer or network failures. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2012 median salary for these professionals was $120,950. Computer and information system managers made an average of $137,390 in computer design and related services firms and $133,460 for management, scientific and technical consulting companies.

Innovative Ways to Trade

With its emphasis on complex mathematics and statistics, operations research influences the financial industry. Models and algorithms run by computers lead to unique investment trading strategies, such as arbitraging -- the buying of a security in one market and selling it in another to take advantage of different market conditions. As a holder of a Ph.D. in operations research, you can work with investment and brokerage houses and credit card companies. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average salary for an operations research analyst in the securities and commodity contracts intermediation and brokerage industry was $117,880 in 2012.

• Columbia University: The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science: Industrial Engineering and Operations Research -- PhD Careers
• Rutgers Business School: PhD in Operations Research
• Georgia Tech: Scheller School of Business: PhD -- Operations Management
• Stanford University: Management Science and Engineering:
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages -- 11-3021 Computer and Information Systems Managers
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook: Computer and Information Systems Managers -- Summary
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook: Operations Research Analysts -- Summary
• Naval Postgraduate School: Operations Research Department
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment Statistics:
• New York University: Stern Business School: Arbitrage

Christopher Raines enjoys sharing his knowledge of business, financial matters and the law. He earned his business administration and law degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. As a lawyer since August 1996, Raines has handled cases involving business, consumer and other areas of the law.

Related Articles

Jobs for masters of mathematics, careers as a research analyst, careers with a liberal studies degree & a minor in math, types of jobs with a meteorology degree, jobs for former math teachers, how long does it takes to become a computer it professional, how much does a computer scientist get paid, how much does a language analyst make, most popular.

• 1 Jobs for Masters of Mathematics
• 2 Careers As a Research Analyst
• 3 MIS Salary
• 4 Careers with a Liberal Studies Degree & a Minor in Math

H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering

College of engineering, ph.d. in operations research.

The core strength comprising the discipline of Operations Research (OR) at Georgia Tech resides in the Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISyE). One of the largest programs in the country, approximately half of the entire ISyE faculty is directly responsible for the OR program through teaching and research activities that span virtually every topic and sub-discipline related to the field's basic methodologies of optimization, stochastics/applied probability and simulation. Most important, the OR faculty in the School currently counts among its members some of the most important figures in their respective concentrations, also making the program one of the strongest anywhere.

Students pursuing a degree in Operations Research (OR) are exposed to a host of research activities in the School. As one would expect from a program as large as ours, the range and depth of these activities are substantial. Depending upon your taste, your background, or your career intentions, you can engage in research that spans from the most fundamental/theoretical to work that places greater emphasis on applications. No matter your inclination, as an OR student, you can generally find several faculty doing work in your chosen concentration.

Students are attracted to our OR degree from a variety of academic disciplines and specializations. Most prominent are applicants from mathematics/mathematical sciences, theoretical computer science, and various engineering majors such as electrical and industrial engineering. However, it is not uncommon to also find qualified students from fields such as physics, economics, and statistics.

New Ph.D. students are admitted for each Fall semester only, and the admissions process is coordinated by the Associate Chair for Graduate Studies. Decisions on applicants to our various Ph.D. programs are determined jointly by a committee of faculty members, potential faculty research advisors, and the Associate Chair. All applicants must select and apply to a specific degree program, although it is possible in some cases to switch programs after enrollment.

A prior Master's degree is not a requirement for admission into our Ph.D. programs, and students can earn an M.S. degree typically within the first two years of Ph.D. study. For those unsure about applying to a Master's program versus a Ph.D. program, please note that students in our Master's programs are not guaranteed admission into a Ph.D. program here; we do offer a simplified application scheme. If you are interested in research and a Ph.D. degree, you should apply to a Ph.D. program directly.

Application Requirements

• Transcripts : Transcripts of prior academic work are required, as is evidence of an earned Bachelor's degree. Applicant transcripts should demonstrate strong academic preparation and capability, especially in advanced mathematics and computing coursework. Those with less preparation in mathematics and engineering are expected to use coursework at Georgia Tech to quickly establish proficiency. 
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) : Scores from the general test are required, and strong performance on the quantitative section is expected. Scores from the Mathematics Subject Test are not required, but can help a student demonstrate proficiency in advanced mathematics.  **The GRE is optional for the 2024 admissions cycle for Ph.D. applicants.**   However, if you decide not to submit GRE scores, the rest of your academic record should make up for the lack of the test score. If you have GRE test scores and wish to submit them for Fall 2023, they will be accepted and considered.  
• Statement of Purpose : The written statement of purpose should describe clearly why the applicant wishes to pursue the Ph.D., including research and career goals. While the statement should describe past experiences, it should also identify clearly the research area of interest to the applicant and the members of our faculty that might serve as research advisor(s).
• Resume: A resume outlining academic experience, research experience and accomplishments, industry experience, specific skills, and outside interests of the applicant is required.
• Letters of Reference:   Three (3) credible letters of reference are required that attest to the preparation of the applicant and the likelihood for success in a Ph.D. program. At least two (2) letters should be from faculty members.  

Each year, we receive many more applications from qualified students than we have the capacity to admit into our programs. To help admitted students learn more about our programs and meet potential research advisors, we hold an invitation-only Ph.D. Applicant Visit Day annually in early March.  

• Requirements
• Check Status

Career Paths

ISyE produces well-rounded graduates who go on to make an extraordinary mark on the world through their leadership in engineering and technology. With broad skill sets and innovative minds molded by the number one school of industrial engineering in the country, our graduates are out changing the world and paving the way for future generations..

A sample of companies our Ph.D. graduates launched their careers with

• BHP Billiton
• Norfolk Southern
• Descartes Associates
• GE Global Research
• JP Morgan Chase
• Suntrust Bank
• Delta Technologies
• Capital One
• United Airlines

A sample of academic institutions our Ph.D. graduates launched their careers with

• MIT (Sloan/ORC)
• Carnegie Mellon (Business, Statistics)
• Purdue (Industrial Engineering)
• Harvard (Statistics)
• Iowa (Business)
• Arkansas (Industrial Engineering)
• Texas-Austin (Operations Research)
• Northwestern (IEMS, Business)
• Lehigh (Industrial Engineering)
• Florida (Industrial Engineering)
• North Carolina-Chapel Hill (Operations Research, Business)
• Middle East Technical University [Turkey] (Industrial Engineering)
• Duke (Business)
• Chicago (Business)
• Minnesota (Industrial Engineering)
• University of Chile (Industrial Engineering)
• Texas A&M (Industrial Engineering)
• Virginia Tech (Industrial Engineering)

Prospective Student Resources

New student checklist, graduate orientation resources, graduate handbook, financial aid.

Yes, the IELTS exam is accepted. See here for score requirements:  https://www.grad.gatech.edu/english-proficiency  

Transfer credit is accepted only in rare cases, and must be approved by the Associate Chair of Graduate Studies, ISyE. The review and approval process typically takes place during a student’s first semester in the program. A maximum of six total credit hours are transferrable. 

You may begin your application here: http://www.grad.gatech.edu/apply-now

Applicants should track their status through the CollegeNet online status check found here: https://www.grad.gatech.edu/status-checking

All ISyE Ph.D. students receive some type of funding and this is typically via a graduate assistantship (GRA or GTA). Sometimes students are supported by external fellowships. Please see here for more information on support: https://www.isye.gatech.edu/academics/doctoral/current-students/financial-support  

It is common for Ph.D. students to earn a Master’s degree as they progress through their Ph.D. program of study. That is, appropriate courses taken as part of their Ph.D. program are often applied to satisfy relevant degree requirements for a single Master’s degree. The review and approval process must go through the Associate chair for Graduate Studies.  Ph.D. students will not however be granted multiple Master’s degrees from ISyE. 

No. All Ph.D. students studying in ISyE receive financial support in the form of a graduate assistantship. There is no separate application required.  https://www.isye.gatech.edu/academics/doctoral/prospective-students/financial-support

Yes. ISyE Ph.D. students must be enrolled in the Atlanta campus.

Exceptions are given to applicants from countries where English is the SOLE OFFICIAL language of instruction. An applicant is also exempt if they have studied for at least one academic year at a U.S. college or university. Please visit https://grad.gatech.edu/english-proficiency for further information on the English Proficiency requirements for international students.

Applicants are required to submit a Statement of Purpose describing his or her motivation for pursuing the Ph.D. in ISyE, including a description of current research interests. Additionally, all applicants are required to submit transcripts of prior academic coursework, official GRE exam scores, and three recommendation letters.  

Please review the Georgia Tech English Proficiency Requirements here: https://grad.gatech.edu/english-proficiency .

The best preparation for a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering or Operations Research at Georgia Tech is a technical program in mathematics, industrial engineering, operations research, statistics, or computer science. Students are expected to have strong understanding of calculus, applied probability, statistics, linear algebra, and computing. Also desirable are proof-based mathematics courses.  

Please see our admissions page here for additional information:  https://www.isye.gatech.edu/academics/doctoral/phd-industrial-engineering/admissions

The application deadline for our Ph.D. program is December 15. We offer fall admission only and classes begin in August.

Copies of your transcripts should be uploaded with your online application. If you are admitted to the program and decide to enroll, you will be required to have official transcripts sent to the Office of Graduate Studies.

Graduate Studies Georgia Institute of Technology 631 Cherry St., Room 318 Atlanta, GA 30332-0321

Our goal is to have all Ph.D. applications reviewed and official admissions decisions out by the end of February. 

Please refer to our ISyE Graduate Handbook .

Please visit our website for information related to: Admissions, Curriculum, Specializations, Financial Support, Research Faculty, Placement, etc.  https://www.isye.gatech.edu/academics/doctoral/industrial-engineering

Academic recommendations are strongly preferred. We require a total of three and they should be very strong. 

Academic recommendation letters are strongly preferred.  We ask for three letters of recommendations and they should be very strong.    

• Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering >
• PhD Program >
• PhD in Industrial Engineering >

Operations Research

Degree concentration for phd, industrial engineering.

Operations Research (OR) is the application of scientific and especially mathematical methods to the study and analysis of problems involving complex systems. 

PhD students interested in OR apply methods such as mathematical programming, stochastic modeling, and discrete-event simulation to the solution of problems in complex systems such as logistics, supply chain optimization, long-range planning, energy and environmental systems, urban and health systems, and manufacturing.

We have an active student body - in fact, UB hosts one of the founding chapters of Omega Rho, the National Operations Research Honor Society. Students are also active participants in the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS).

Our faculty and students conduct OR research funded by such agencies as the National Science Foundation, the Office of Naval Research, the Air Force Office of Scientific Research, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Transportation and the National Institute of Justice, as well as national and local corporations and foundations such as United Airlines, Praxair, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and the Fire Protection Research Foundation. We often work in teams with faculty and students with research interests in manufacturing, production systems and human factors to solve problems beyond the expertise of any single discipline.

Graduating students take positions in national and international corporations, academic institutions and research laboratories. 

Required Core Courses

ISE PhD students who concentrate in OR complete at a minimum:

• IE 572 Linear Programming
• IE 573 Discrete Optimization
• IE 575 Stochastic Methods
• IE 576 Applied Stochastic Processes
• IE 5xx/6xx Operations Research/IE Elective
• IE 555 Programming for Analytics (Must be completed within the first two years of the program) 

Operations Research Analyst Salary

Overall Score 6.0 / 10

• # 6 in Best Business Jobs
• # 10 in Best STEM Jobs
• # 15 in 100 Best Jobs

How Much Does an Operations Research Analyst Make?

Salary outlook, best-paying cities for operations research analysts, the 5 best-paying cities for operations research analysts.

Best-Paying States for Operations Research Analysts

The states and districts that pay Operations Research Analysts the highest mean salary are Virginia ($121,460), Alabama ($109,160), New York ($108,260), Hawaii ($107,920), and Maryland ($107,260).

Average Operations Research Analyst Pay vs. Other Best Jobs

Financial Analyst

Management Analyst

Operations Research Analyst

Logistician

Market Research Analyst

Operations Research Analyst I Salary in the United States

Operations research analyst i salary.

How much does an Operations Research Analyst I make in the United States? The average Operations Research Analyst I salary in the United States is $67,564 as of April 24, 2024, but the range typically falls between $60,190 and $78,755 . Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education , certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target. 

• Paid Annually
• Paid Monthly
• Paid Semimonthly
• Paid Biweekly
• Paid Weekly
• Paid Hourly

Systems Analyst EPIC Operations/Full-Time

Disability Solutions - La Cienga, NM

Security Analyst II (Operations Support)

WALGREENS - Deerfield, IL

AML Operations Analyst

GTT, LLC - Mount Laurel, NJ

Operations Analyst

quantum-health - Dublin, OH

• View Hourly Wages
• Select State
• Select City
• Choose Similar Job
• Pick Related Category
• View Cost of Living in Major Cities

What skills does an Operations Research Analyst I need?

Each competency has five to ten behavioral assertions that can be observed, each with a corresponding performance level (from one to five) that is required for a particular job.

Analysis: Analysis is the process of considering something carefully or using statistical methods in order to understand it or explain it.

PowerPoint: A computer software created by Microsoft which allows the user to create slides with recordings, narrations, transitions and other features in order to present information.

Supply Chain: A supply chain encompasses everything from the delivery of source materials from the supplier to the manufacturer through to its eventual delivery to the end user.

Analyze the market and your qualifications to negotiate your salary with confidence.

Search thousands of open positions to find your next opportunity.

Individualize employee pay based on unique job requirements and personal qualifications.

Get the latest market price for benchmark jobs and jobs in your industry.

Job Description for Operations Research Analyst I

Operations Research Analyst I collects and analyzes data to evaluate operations and processes and to facilitate complex decision-making. Follows established modeling and evaluation methodologies to determine the effectiveness of current operational activities, isolate problem areas and develop solutions. Being an Operations Research Analyst I tests and validates models and results. Prepares reports that outline and rank proposed solutions and present a range of possible alternatives. Additionally, Operations Research Analyst I requires a bachelor's degree of mathematics or related field. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Operations Research Analyst I works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Work is closely managed. To be an Operations Research Analyst I typically requires 0-2 years of related experience. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)... View full job description

Employers: Job Description Management Tool

See user submitted job responsibilities for Operations Research Analyst I.

Our job description management tool- JobArchitect streamlines your job description process. Say goodbye to the hassle of crafting job descriptions.

Does your employee feel unfair treatment? See our CompAnalyst ® Pay Equity Suite can help you achieve and sustain pay equity with the true end-to-end solution.

Search Job Openings

Salary.com job board provides millions of Operations Research Analyst I information for you to search for. Click on search button below to see Operations Research Analyst I job openings or enter a new job title here.

• Security Analyst II (Operations Support) WALGREENS - Deerfield, IL Job Summary. This role provides operational and product support for Walgreens Security Technology and Identity & Access Management tools. Support duties in... - Just Posted
• AML Operations Analyst GTT, LLC - Mount Laurel, NJ AML Operations Analyst. Contract Duration 12+ Months. Pay Range: $30 - $45 an hour. Job Summary. AML Operations establishes processes to identify unusual a... - 2 Months Ago
• Operations Analyst quantum-health - Dublin, OH Description. Location. This position is. located. at our Dublin, OH campus with hybrid flexibility. Who we are. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Centra... - 2 Days Ago
• Research Operations Manager Houston Methodist Academic Institute - Houston, TX At Houston Methodist, the Manager Research Operations position is responsible for impacting the management, planning, development, budget, and other admini... - 1 Day Ago

Career Path for Operations Research Analyst I

A career path is a sequence of jobs that leads to your short- and long-term career goals. Some follow a linear career path within one field, while others change fields periodically to achieve career or personal goals.

For Operations Research Analyst I, the upper level is Operations Research Analyst II and then progresses to Operations Research Analyst IV.

What does an Operations Research Analyst I do?

Are you an hr manager or compensation specialist.

Salary.com's CompAnalyst platform offers:

• Detailed skills and competency reports for specific positions
• Job and employee pricing reports
• Compensation data tools, salary structures, surveys and benchmarks.

Operations Research Analyst I Pay Difference by Location

Operations Research Analyst I salary varies from city to city. Compared with national average salary of Operations Research Analyst I, the highest Operations Research Analyst I salary is in San Francisco, CA, where the Operations Research Analyst I salary is 25.0% above. The lowest Operations Research Analyst I salary is in Miami, FL, where the Operations Research Analyst I salary is 3.5% lower than national average salary.

Similar Jobs to Operations Research Analyst I

Level of education for operations research analyst i.

Jobs with different levels of education may pay very differently. Check the Operations Research Analyst I salary of your education level.

• Operations Research Analyst I Salaries with a Bachelor's Degree
• Operations Research Analyst I Salaries with a Master's Degree or MBA
• Operations Research Analyst I Salaries with a JD, MD, PhD or Equivalent

Operations Research Analyst I Salary by State

Geographic variations impact Operations Research Analyst I salary levels, due to various factors, such as cost of living, industries, market demand and company budgets. Click below to see pay differences between states.

Browse All Logistics Jobs by Salary Level

Browse related job categories with operations research analyst i.

A job category is a classification or grouping of job positions that share similar characteristics, functions, or industries. Operations Research Analyst I salary varies from category to category. Click below to see Operations Research Analyst I salary in different categories.

Take just three simple steps below to generate your own personalized salary report

Understand the total compensation opportunity for an Operations Research Analyst I, base salary plus other pay elements

Average base salary.

Core compensation

Average Total Cash Compensation

Includes base and annual incentives

Discover how your pay is adjusted for skills, experience, and other factors

How much should you be paid.

For a real-time salary target, tell us more about your role in the four categories below.

Your estimated salary based on up-to-date market data and the factors you selected below

View the Cost of Living in Major Cities

Skills associated with Operations Research Analyst I: Statistical Software , Business Intelligence , Complex Event Processing/Event Correlation , Information Gathering ... More

Recently searched companies with related titles : Home Depot Inc. Business Operations Analyst

Recently searched related titles: Junior Research Analyst , Operation Research Analyst , Operational Research Analyst

Jobs with a similar salary range to Operations Research Analyst I : Decision Science Analyst , Ops Analyst , Survey Research Analyst , Operations Analyst I , Operations Analyst Junior , Operations Engineer, Analyst

Salary estimation for Operations Research Analyst I at companies like : Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University , Healing School , Paramus Health Center New Bridge Medical Center

Jobs with a similar salary range to Operations Research Analyst I : Operational Analyst

• Job Search Advice
• Interviewing
• Login/Register
• Career Profiles and Employment Projections
• Operations Research Analysts: Jobs, Career, Salary and Education Information

Operations Research Analysts

Career, salary and education information.

What They Do : Operations research analysts use advanced mathematical and analytical methods to help solve complex issues.

Work Environment : Operations research analysts spend most of their time in offices, although some travel may be necessary to meet with clients. Almost all operations research analysts work full time.

How to Become One : Although the typical educational requirement for entry-level positions is a bachelor’s degree, some employers may prefer to hire applicants with a master’s degree. Analysts typically have a degree in business, operations research, management science, analytics, mathematics, engineering, computer science, or another technical or quantitative field.

Salary : The median annual wage for operations research analysts is $82,360.

Job Outlook : Employment of operations research analysts is projected to grow 23 percent over the next ten years, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Related Careers : Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of operations research analysts with similar occupations.

Following is everything you need to know about a career as an operations research analyst with lots of details. As a first step, take a look at some of the following jobs, which are real jobs with real employers. You will be able to see the very real job career requirements for employers who are actively hiring. The link will open in a new tab so that you can come back to this page to continue reading about the career:

Top 3 Operations Research Analyst Jobs

As an Operations Research Analyst supporting our Federal government client, you will play a critical role in providing analytical and strategic insights to manage the operations of its customer ...

Operations Research Analyst III KMS Solutions, LLC is a technical management/solutions company that specializes in engineering, analysis , and cyber security. Founded in 2005, KMS is a certified small ...

Operations Research and Systems Analyst NAS Fallon, Fallon, NV - Full-time - Not a remote position Global C2 Integration Technologies is looking for a talented and enthusiastic Operations Research ...

See all Operations Research Analyst jobs

What Operations Research Analysts Do [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Operations research analysts use advanced mathematical and analytical methods to help organizations solve problems and make better decisions.

Duties of Operations Research Analysts

Operations research analysts typically do the following:

• Identify and solve problems in areas such as business, logistics, healthcare, or other fields
• Collect and organize information from a variety of sources, such as computer databases, sales histories, and customer feedback
• Gather input from workers involved in all aspects of a problem or from others who have specialized knowledge, so that they can help solve the problem
• Examine information to figure out what is relevant to a problem and what methods might be used to analyze it
• Use statistical analysis, simulations, predictive modeling, or other methods to analyze information and develop practical solutions to business problems
• Advise managers and other decisionmakers on the effects of various courses of action to take in order to address a problem
• Write memos, reports, and other documents explaining their findings and recommendations for managers, executives, and other officials

Operations research analysts are involved in all aspects of an organization. They help managers decide how to allocate resources, develop production schedules, manage the supply chain, and set prices. For example, they may help decide how to organize products in supermarkets or help companies figure out the most effective way to ship and distribute products.

Analysts must first identify and understand the problem to be solved or the processes to be improved. Analysts typically collect relevant data from the field and interview clients or managers involved in the business processes being examined. Analysts show the implications of pursuing different actions and may assist in achieving a consensus on how to proceed.

Operations research analysts use sophisticated computer software, such as databases and statistical packages, to analyze and solve problems. Analysts use statistical software to simulate current and future events and evaluate alternative courses of action. Analysts break down problems into their various parts and analyze the effect that different changes and circumstances would have on each of these parts. For example, to help an airline schedule flights and decide what to charge for tickets, analysts may take into account the cities that have to be connected, the amount of fuel required to fly those routes, the expected number of passengers, pilots' schedules, maintenance costs, and fuel prices.

There is no one way to solve a problem, and analysts must weigh the costs and benefits of alternative solutions or approaches in their recommendations to managers.

Because problems are complex and often require expertise from many disciplines, most analysts work on teams. Once a manager reaches a final decision, these teams may work with others in the organization to ensure that the plan is successful.

Work Environment for Operations Research Analysts [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Operations research analysts hold about 104,200 jobs. The largest employers of operations research analysts are as follows:

Some operations research analysts in the federal government work for the Department of Defense, which also employs analysts through private consulting firms.

Operations research analysts spend much of their time in office settings. They may travel to gather information, observe business processes, work with clients, or attend conferences.

Operations Research Analyst Work Schedules

Most operations research analysts work full time.

How to Become an Operations Research Analyst [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Get the education you need: Find schools for Operations Research Analysts near you!

Although the typical educational requirement for entry-level positions is a bachelor's degree, some employers may prefer to hire applicants with a master's degree. Because few schools offer bachelor's and advanced degree programs in operations research, analysts typically have degrees in other related fields.

Education for Operations Research Analysts

Many entry-level positions are available for those with a bachelor's degree. However, some employers may prefer to hire applicants with a master's degree.

Although some schools offer bachelor's and advanced degree programs in operations research, some analysts have degrees in other technical or quantitative fields, such as engineering, computer science, analytics, or mathematics.

Because operations research is based on quantitative analysis, students need extensive coursework in mathematics. Courses include statistics, calculus, and linear algebra. Coursework in computer science is important because analysts rely on advanced statistical and database software to analyze and model data. Courses in other areas, such as engineering, economics, and political science, are useful because operations research is a multidisciplinary field with a wide variety of applications.

Continuing education is important for operations research analysts. Keeping up with advances in technology, software tools, and improved analytical methods is vital.

Other Experience for Operations Research Analysts

Some operations research analysts are veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. Certain positions may require applicants to undergo a background check in order to obtain a security clearance.

Important Qualities for Operations Research Analysts

Analytical skills. Operations research analysts use a wide range of methods, such as forecasting, data mining, and statistical analysis, to examine and interpret data. They must determine the appropriate software packages and understand computer programming languages to design and develop new techniques and models.

Communication skills. Operations research analysts often present their data and conclusions to managers and other executives. They also need to communicate technical information to people without a technical background.

Critical-thinking skills. Operations research analysts must be able to figure out what information is relevant to their work. They also must be able to evaluate the costs and benefits of alternative solutions before making a recommendation.

Interpersonal skills. Operations research analysts typically work on teams. They also need to be able to convince managers and top executives to accept their recommendations.

Math skills. The models and methods used by operations research analysts are rooted in statistics, calculus, linear algebra, and other advanced mathematical disciplines.

Problem-solving skills. Operations research analysts need to be able to diagnose problems on the basis of information given to them by others. They then analyze relevant information to solve the problems.

Writing skills. Operations research analysts write memos, reports, and other documents explaining their findings and recommendations.

Operations Research Analyst Salaries [ About this section ] [ More salary/earnings info ] [ To Top ]

The median annual wage for operations research analysts is $82,360. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $48,690, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $160,850.

The median annual wages for operations research analysts in the top industries in which they work are as follows:

Job Outlook for Operations Research Analysts [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Employment of operations research analysts is projected to grow 23 percent over the next ten years, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 10,300 openings for operations research analysts are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Employment of Operations Research Analysts

As technology advances and companies and government agencies seek efficiency and cost savings, demand for operations research analysis should continue to grow. In addition, increasing demand should occur for these workers in the field of analytics to improve business planning and decision making.

Technological advances have made it faster and easier for organizations to get data. Operations research analysts manage and evaluate data to improve business operations, supply chains, pricing models, and marketing. In addition, improvements in analytical software have made operations research more affordable and applicable to a wider range of areas. More companies are expected to employ operations research analysts to help them turn data into information that managers use to make decisions about all aspects of their business.

Careers Related to Operations Research Analysts [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Data scientists.

Data scientists use analytical tools and techniques to extract meaningful insights from data.

Economists study the production and distribution of resources, goods, and services by collecting and analyzing data, researching trends, and evaluating economic issues.

Industrial Engineers

Industrial engineers find ways to eliminate wastefulness in production processes. They devise efficient systems that integrate workers, machines, materials, information, and energy to make a product or provide a service.

Logisticians

Logisticians analyze and coordinate an organization's supply chain—the system that moves a product from supplier to consumer. They manage the entire life cycle of a product, which includes how a product is acquired, allocated, and delivered.

Management Analysts

Management analysts, often called management consultants, propose ways to improve an organization's efficiency. They advise managers on how to make organizations more profitable through reduced costs and increased revenues.

Market Research Analysts

Market research analysts study market conditions to examine potential sales of a product or service. They help companies understand what products people want, who will buy them, and at what price.

Mathematicians and Statisticians

Mathematicians and statisticians analyze data and apply mathematical and statistical techniques to help solve real-world problems in business, engineering, healthcare, or other fields.

Software Developers

Software developers are the creative minds behind computer programs. Some develop the applications that allow people to do specific tasks on a computer or another device. Others develop the underlying systems that run the devices or that control networks.

More Operations Research Analyst Information [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

For more information about operations research analysts, visit

Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences

Military Operations Research Society

A portion of the information on this page is used by permission of the U.S. Department of Labor.

Explore more careers: View all Careers or the Top 30 Career Profiles

Search for jobs:.

• Twitter Facebook Pinterest
• Highest Paid
• Popular Online
• Non-Traditional

2024 Best Operations Research Schools

For its 2024 ranking, College Factual looked at 20 schools in the United States to determine which ones were the best for operations research students pursuing a degree. When you put them all together, these colleges and universities awarded 1,698 degrees in operations research during the 2020-2021 academic year.

What's on this page: * Degree-Level Rankings

• Best Overall Operations Research Schools List

Choosing a Great Operations Research School

In order to find the schools that are the best fit for you, you may want to filter to one of the degree levels below.

Operations Research Rankings by Degree Level

The operations research school you choose to invest your time and money in matters. To help you make the decision that is right for you, we've developed a number of major-specific rankings , including this list of the Best Operations Research Schools. You can also filter this list by location to find schools closer to you.

In addition to College Factual's rankings, you may want to take a look at College Combat , our unique tool that lets you pit your favorite schools head-to-head and compare how they rate on factors that most interest you. When you have some time, check it out - you may want to bookmark the link so you don't forget it.

More information on how we come up with our rankings can be found here: College Factual's Data Methodology .

Best Schools for Operations Research in the United States

The schools below may not offer all types of operations research degrees so you may want to filter by degree level first. However, they are great for the degree levels they do offer.

10 Top Schools in Operations Research

Massachusetts Institute of Technology is one of the best schools in the country for getting a degree in operations research. MIT is a large private not-for-profit school located in the city of Cambridge. A Best Colleges rank of #1 out of 2,217 colleges nationwide means MIT is a great school overall.

There were approximately 23 operations research students who graduated with this degree at MIT in the most recent year we have data available.

Columbia University in the City of New York is one of the finest schools in the United States for getting a degree in operations research. Columbia is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of New York. A Best Colleges rank of #14 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means Columbia is a great university overall.

There were about 399 operations research students who graduated with this degree at Columbia in the most recent data year. Those operations research students who get their degree from Columbia University in the City of New York earn $14,532 more than the standard operations research student.

It's hard to beat Princeton University if you want to pursue a degree in operations research. Located in the small city of Princeton, Princeton is a private not-for-profit university with a medium-sized student population. A Best Colleges rank of #10 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means Princeton is a great university overall.

There were about 79 operations research students who graduated with this degree at Princeton in the most recent data year.

University of California - Berkeley is one of the best schools in the country for getting a degree in operations research. Located in the city of Berkeley, UC Berkeley is a public university with a fairly large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #18 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means UC Berkeley is a great university overall.

There were approximately 192 operations research students who graduated with this degree at UC Berkeley in the most recent data year.

Located in the city of Evanston, Northwestern is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #5 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means Northwestern is a great university overall. More information about a degree in operations research from Northwestern University

Carnegie Mellon is a large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of Pittsburgh. A Best Colleges rank of #9 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means Carnegie Mellon is a great university overall.

There were roughly 8 operations research students who graduated with this degree at Carnegie Mellon in the most recent data year.

Located in the small city of Ithaca, Cornell is a private not-for-profit university with a very large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #22 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means Cornell is a great university overall.

There were approximately 231 operations research students who graduated with this degree at Cornell in the most recent year we have data available. Degree recipients from the operations research program at Cornell University earn $4,868 above the standard college grad in this field shortly after graduation.

Located in the large city of Houston, Rice is a private not-for-profit university with a medium-sized student population. A Best Colleges rank of #16 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means Rice is a great university overall.

There were about 12 operations research students who graduated with this degree at Rice in the most recent year we have data available.

Georgia Tech is a very large public school located in the city of Atlanta. A Best Colleges rank of #24 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means Georgia Tech is a great school overall.

There were about 50 operations research students who graduated with this degree at Georgia Tech in the most recent year we have data available.

SMU is a large private not-for-profit university located in the large suburb of Dallas. This university ranks 4th out of 115 schools for overall quality in the state of Texas.

There were roughly 43 operations research students who graduated with this degree at SMU in the most recent year we have data available.

Operations Research by Region

View the Best Operations Research Schools for a specific region near you.

Other Rankings

Bachelor's degrees in operations research, doctor's degrees in operations research, highest paid grads in operations research, best for veterans in operations research, most popular in operations research, most focused in operations research, master's degrees in operations research, best value in operations research, best for non-traditional students in operations research, best online in operations research, most popular online in operations research.

View All Rankings >

Operations Research Related Rankings by Major

Operations Research is one of 41 different types of Engineering programs to choose from.

Operations Research Focus Areas

View All Operations Research Concentrations >

Most Popular Majors Related to Operations Research

View All Operations Research Related Majors >

Notes and References

• The bars on the spread charts above show the distribution of the schools on this list +/- one standard deviation from the mean.
• The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ( IPEDS ) from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), a branch of the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) serves as the core of the rest of our data about colleges.
• Some other college data, including much of the graduate earnings data, comes from the U.S. Department of Education’s ( College Scorecard ).

More about our data sources and methodologies .

Popular Reports

Compare your school options.