Operations Research Analysts Go Back to List Formulate and apply mathematical modeling and other optimizing methods to develop and interpret information that assists management with decision making, policy formulation, or other managerial functions. May collect and analyze data and develop decision support software, service, or products. May develop and supply optimal time, cost, or logistics networks for program evaluation, review, or implementation.

Technology used in this occupation:
	Analytical or scientific software

Tasks
	Formulate mathematical or simulation models of problems, relating constants and variables, restrictions, alternatives, conflicting objectives, and their numerical parameters.
	Collaborate with others in the organization to ensure successful implementation of chosen problem solutions.
	Analyze information obtained from management to conceptualize and define operational problems.
	Perform validation and testing of models to ensure adequacy and reformulate models as necessary.
	Collaborate with senior managers and decision makers to identify and solve a variety of problems and to clarify management objectives.
	Define data requirements and gather and validate information, applying judgment and statistical tests.
	Study and analyze information about alternative courses of action to determine which plan will offer the best outcomes.
	Prepare management reports defining and evaluating problems and recommending solutions.
	Break systems into their components, assign numerical values to each component, and examine the mathematical relationships between them.
	Specify manipulative or computational methods to be applied to models.

Skills
	Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems.
	Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
	Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
	Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
	Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
	Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
	Systems Evaluation - Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
	Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
	Systems Analysis - Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
	Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Knowledge
	Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
	English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
	Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
	Engineering and Technology - Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
	Administration and Management - Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
	Economics and Accounting - Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
	Production and Processing - Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
	Transportation - Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
	Education and Training - Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
	Design - Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

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Education & Training   Education:   Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).   Related Experience:   Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.

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Wage Information
	Region Average Entry Level  Mid-Range  Annual  Hourly  Statewide $98,374.00 $47.30  $31.95  $37.26 - $56.66  Bridgeport/Stamford $103,258.00 $49.65  $31.56  $38.14 - $60.86  Hartford $94,727.00 $45.55  $31.53  $35.52 - $55.06  New Haven $114,363.00 $54.98  $38.90  $44.37 - $59.71  New London/Norwich $96,139.00 $46.23  $32.45  $39.26 - $52.86

Occupation Outlook ( 2016 - 2026 ) Average Annual Job Openings:   75   Employment in this occupation is expected to grow more slowly than average, and the number of annual openings will offer limited job opportunities.

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	Some of the occupational information on this page is formulated from O*NETTM v17.0 data. O*NETTM is a trademark of the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.