Operations Research Analysts
Analytical Strategist, Operations Research Analyst (Ops Research Analyst), Operations Research Scientist (Ops Research Scientist), Researcher
What they do:
Formulate and apply mathematical modeling and other optimizing methods to develop and interpret information that assists management with decisionmaking, policy formulation, or other managerial functions. May collect and analyze data and develop decision support software, services, or products. May develop and supply optimal time, cost, or logistics networks for program evaluation, review, or implementation.
On the job, you would:
- Present the results of mathematical modeling and data analysis to management or other end users.
- Define data requirements, and gather and validate information, applying judgment and statistical tests.
- Perform validation and testing of models to ensure adequacy, and reformulate models, as necessary.
Knowledge
Math and Science
- arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Engineering and Technology
- computers and electronics
- product and service development
Manufactured or Agricultural Goods
- manufacture and distribution of products
Arts and Humanities
- English language
Skills
Basic Skills
- using math to solve problems
- listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
Problem Solving
- noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
People and Technology Systems
- figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
- measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it
Abilities
Math
- choose the right type of math to solve a problem
- add, subtract, multiply, or divide
Verbal
- communicate by speaking
- communicate by writing
Ideas and Logic
- make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
- use rules to solve problems
Personality
People interested in this work like activities that include ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.
They do well at jobs that need:
- Analytical Thinking
- Attention to Detail
- Integrity
- Initiative
- Innovation
- Persistence
Technology
You might use software like this on the job:
Analytical or scientific software
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- The MathWorks MATLAB
Word processing software
- Google Docs
- Microsoft Word
Operating system software
- Bash
- UNIX Shell
Education
Education: (rated 5 of 5)
master's degree or
bachelor's degree
usually needed
bachelor's degree
usually needed
Job Outlook
Bright
New job opportunities are very likely in the future.
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See more details at O*NET OnLine about operations research analysts.