Shigoto Zukan
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How to become operations research analystseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter

United States Engineering & Science Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$88,940
25th–75th pct. $68,360–$125,990
Top pay (est.)
$207,900
Top 10% $159,910
Pay in 5 years
$101,800est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$116,500est.
$100,200–$135,200
Outlook score
59/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
72%
High
Job growth (10 yr)
+11.9%
7,500 openings / yr

How to become operations research analysts

Typical education
Bachelor's degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
None

A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.

Skills, education and requirements for Operations Research Analysts

Key skills

Mathematics
4.9
Complex Problem Solving
4.5
Judgment and Decision Making
4.4
Reading Comprehension
4.2
Systems Evaluation
4.2
Operations Analysis
4.2
Active Learning
4.1
Critical Thinking
4.1

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

Mathematics
6.4
Computers and Electronics
5.3
Engineering and Technology
5.1
Production and Processing
4.5
Education and Training
4.4
English Language
4.0
Administration and Management
3.8
Design
3.6

What the work involves

Analyzing Data or InformationProcessing InformationMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsThinking CreativelyUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeGetting InformationProviding Consultation and Advice to OthersInterpreting the Meaning of Information for Others

Important abilities

Oral ComprehensionWritten ComprehensionMathematical ReasoningInductive ReasoningOral ExpressionDeductive Reasoning

Education of workers

Master's degree
43%
Bachelor's degree
33%
Doctoral degree
14%
Post-bachelor's certificate
10%

Training before entry

Up to 1 month
29%
None / short demo
24%
3–6 months
24%
1–3 months
14%
6–12 months
10%

Related work experience

1–2 years
30%
None
25%
2–4 years
25%
6–12 months
10%
Over 10 years
5%
3–6 months
5%

Job Zone 5 — extensive preparation needed (O*NET)

Difficulty of entry: ★★★☆☆ Moderate (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)

Career path and how to earn more as operations research analysts

Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.

Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.