Employment of operations research analysts is expected to grow by 15 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations. As technology advances and companies further emphasize efficiency and cost savings, demand for operations research analysis should continue to grow. Operations research analysts will continue to be needed to provide support for our nation’s military and to assist in the development and implementation of policies and programs in other areas of government.
Technological advances have made it faster and easier for organizations to get data. In addition, improvements in analytical software have made operations research more applicable to a wider range of areas and more affordable to the people who work in them. More companies are expected to use operations research analysts to help them turn data into valuable information that managers can use to make better decisions in all aspects of their business. For example, operations research analysts will be needed to help businesses improve their manufacturing operations and logistics.
Analysts who are able to communicate their recommendations to managers and to workers outside of operations research should have the best job prospects.
Opportunities should be better for those who have a master’s or Ph.D. degree in operations research, management science, or a related field.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition