Operations Research Analysts
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.
Sample of reported job titles:
Advanced Analytics Associate, Analytical Strategist, Decision Analyst, Operations Research Analyst, Optimization Analyst
Occupation-Specific Information
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.
Technology Skills
- Access software:Citrix cloud computing software
- Accounting software:Fund accounting software
- Analytical or scientific software:A mathematical programming language AMPL,Claritas PRIZM NE,General algebraic modeling system GAMS,Hyperion Solutions Hyperion Intelligence,IBM SPSS Statistics,ILOG OPL-CPLEX Development System,Imagine That Extend OR,Insightful S-PLUS,LINDO Systems LINGO,MathWorks Simulink,Mesquite Software CSIM,Minitab,Mixed integer optimizer MINTO,Rockwell Automation Arena,SAS statistical software,Stanford Business Software MINOS,Stanford Business Software SNOPT,StataCorp Stata,Telelogic System Architect,The MathWorks MATLAB,Wolfram Research Mathematica
- Application server software:GitHub
- Backup or archival software:Veritas NetBackup
Occupational Requirements
Work Activities
- Working with Computers:Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Analyzing Data or Information:Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems:Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Getting Information:Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Processing Information:Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Detailed Work Activities
- Analyze data to identify or resolve operational problems.
- Analyze data to identify trends or relationships among variables.
- Analyze project data to determine specifications or requirements.
- Apply information technology to solve business or other applied problems.
- Apply mathematical principles or statistical approaches to solve problems in scientific or applied fields.
Work Context
- Electronic Mail:100% responded"Every day"
- Indoors, Environmentally Controlled:100% responded"Every day"
- Freedom to Make Decisions:75% responded"A lot of freedom"
- Face-to-Face Discussions:65% responded"Every day"
- Spend Time Sitting:63% responded"Continually or almost continually"
Worker Requirements
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.
- 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.
- Judgment and Decision Making:Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
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.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation? Respondents said:
- 70%Master's Degree
- 30%Bachelor's Degree
Worker Characteristics
Abilities
- Mathematical Reasoning:The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
- Inductive Reasoning:The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
- Number Facility:The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
- Written Comprehension:The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
- Deductive Reasoning:The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Interests
- Investigative:Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
- Conventional:Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
- Enterprising:Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.
Work Values
- Achievement:Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
- Independence:Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
- Working Conditions:Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
Work Styles
- Analytical Thinking:Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
- Integrity:Job requires being honest and ethical.
- Attention to Detail:Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
- Dependability:Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
- Innovation:Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
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