Operations research analysts
SOC Code: 15-2031
Operations research analysts carries a 48% AI exposure score (High automation risk), with a median annual wage of $91,290 and +21.5% projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034 (BLS), affecting approximately 112,100 workers. Full task breakdown, skills, and employer data are below.
Proportion of tasks susceptible to AI automation (O*NET analysis)
AI Exposure vs Industry Growth
Total occupations tracked
832
Covering all SOC major groups
Data currency
2024
BLS Employment Projections
AI exposure avg
40%
Fleet-wide median across all roles
Composite score weighing O*NET task data completeness, BLS projection methodology, and cross-validation with employer risk grades.
Employment Projections
Occupation Insight
Operations research analysts (SOC 15-2031) carries an AI exposure score of 48%, placing it in the High automation-risk tier. This score is computed from O*NET Database 30.0 task-level analysis, where each task an occupation performs is evaluated against current generative AI, robotic process automation, and machine-learning capabilities. A score in the 40–70% range indicates meaningful automation pressure on specific task categories, but the role as a whole still requires human judgment for coordination, exception handling, or client interaction.
The economic context matters alongside the risk score. BLS counted approximately 112,100 workers in this occupation in 2024, and projects a +21.5% change through 2034 — a strong growth outlook that compensates meaningfully for automation risk. Median annual compensation stands at $91,290, reflecting both skill scarcity and the value employers place on the tasks that remain difficult to automate. Entry typically requires Bachelor's degree, plus None of related experience.
For career planners, this profile should be read alongside the task, skill, and knowledge breakdowns below and the list of employers whose workforce composition includes Operations research analysts. Adjacent occupations shown further down offer lateral moves that preserve industry knowledge while potentially reducing exposure. Pair the AI exposure score with the BLS employment projection and wage percentiles above for a complete career assessment.
Education & Entry Requirements
Top Tasks (O*NET)
- 1. Present the results of mathematical modeling and data analysis to management or other end users.
- 2. Define data requirements, and gather and validate information, applying judgment and statistical tests.
- 3. Perform validation and testing of models to ensure adequacy, and reformulate models, as necessary.
- 4. Prepare management reports defining and evaluating problems and recommending solutions.
- 5. Collaborate with others in the organization to ensure successful implementation of chosen problem solutions.
- 6. Formulate mathematical or simulation models of problems, relating constants and variables, restrictions, alternatives, conflicting objectives, and their numerical parameters.
- 7. Observe the current system in operation, and gather and analyze information about each of the component problems, using a variety of sources.
- 8. Analyze information obtained from management to conceptualize and define operational problems.
- 9. Study and analyze information about alternative courses of action to determine which plan will offer the best outcomes.
- 10. Collaborate with senior managers and decision makers to identify and solve a variety of problems and to clarify management objectives.
Key Skills Required
- Mathematics
- Complex Problem Solving
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Writing
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Active Learning
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Systems Analysis
Knowledge Areas
- Mathematics
- Computers and Electronics
- Engineering and Technology
- Production and Processing
- English Language
- Design
- Education and Training
- Administration and Management
- Economics and Accounting
- Customer and Personal Service
Frequently Asked Questions
Will AI replace Operations research analysts?
Operations research analysts has an AI exposure score of 48%, indicating a high level of automation risk. Some tasks in this role can be augmented or partially automated by AI, but core responsibilities require human judgment.
What is the job outlook for Operations research analysts?
According to BLS Employment Projections 2024-2034, Operations research analysts is projected to grow by 21.5% over the decade. Current employment stands at approximately 112,100 workers.
What skills are needed for Operations research analysts?
Key skills for Operations research analysts include Mathematics, Complex Problem Solving, Reading Comprehension, and others. Typical entry-level education is Bachelor's degree.
How much do Operations research analysts earn?
The median annual wage for Operations research analysts is $91,290, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Actual earnings vary by location, experience, industry, and employer. The BLS publishes detailed wage percentiles by region in its Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program.
What education is required for Operations research analysts?
The typical entry-level education for Operations research analysts is Bachelor's degree. Employers generally expect None of related work experience. On-the-job training typically involves None. Requirements can vary by employer and specialization.
Which companies employ Operations research analysts?
Operations research analysts roles exist across many industries and employers. Workforce composition is estimated from BLS industry-occupation employment distributions matched to SEC-registered public companies.
AI Exposure Rating
High automation risk based on 10 analyzed tasks. A moderate share of tasks may be augmented by AI tools.
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Data sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections 2024–2034 and O*NET Database 30.0. Employment figures are rounded. Wage data from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (OES).