Operations Research Analysts
Description OES Code: 25302
Operations research analysts help determine better ways to coordinate the elements of effective operation of a company by applying analytical methods from mathematics, science, and engineering. They solve problems in different ways and propose alternative solutions to management, which then chooses the course of action that best meets the organization's goals. In general, operations research analysts may be concerned with diverse issues such as top-level strategy, planning, forecasting, resource allocation, performance measurement, scheduling, design of production facilities and systems, supply chain management, pricing, transportation and distribution, and analysis of data in large databases.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $22.51
25th Percentile $25.65
50th Percentile $32.09
75th Percentile $40.80

Wages, San Joaquin
Entry-Level Hourly Wage
$22.78
25th Percentile $25.68
50th Percentile $29.89
75th Percentile $32.72

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Operations research analysts generally work regular hours in an office environment. Because they work on projects that are of immediate interest to top management, operations research analysts often are under pressure to meet deadlines and work more than a 40-hour week.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 8,400
Projected Employment 2008 8,800
Percent Change 1998-2008 4.8%
Separations 1998-2008 2,700

Employment Trends by California County

Advancement
Beginning analysts usually perform routine work under the supervision of more experienced analysts. As they gain knowledge and experience, they are assigned more complex tasks and given greater autonomy to design models and solve problems. Operations research analysts advance by assuming positions as technical specialists or supervisors. The skills acquired by operations research analysts are useful for higher level management jobs, so experienced analysts may leave the field to assume nontechnical managerial or administrative positions. Operations research analysts with significant experience might become consultants and some may even open their own consulting practice.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Opportunities for operations research analysts exist in almost every industry because of the diversity of applications for their work. However, opportunities should be especially good in highly competitive industries, such as manufacturing, transportation, and telecommunications, and finance. As businesses and government agencies continue to contract out jobs to cut costs, many operations research analysts also will find opportunities as consultants, either working for a consulting firm or setting up their own practice. Opportunities in the military also exist.

For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
Employers generally prefer applicants with at least a master's degree in operations research, engineering, business, mathematics, information systems, or management science, coupled with a bachelor's degree in computer science or a quantitative discipline such as economics, mathematics, or statistics. Dual graduate degrees in operations research and computer science are especially attractive to employers. In addition to formal education, employers often sponsor training for experienced workers, helping them keep up with new developments in operations research techniques and computer science. Some analysts attend advanced university classes on these subjects at their employer's expense.

Skills & Other Requirements
Operations research analysts also must be able to think logically and work well with people, and employers prefer workers with good oral and written communication skills. Because computers are the most important tools for in-depth analysis, training and experience in programming are required. Operations research analysts typically need to be proficient in database collection and management, programming, and in the development and use of sophisticated software programs.

References
US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook

Related Occupations: Information Systems Managers, Management Analysts

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)