O*NET-SOC 15-2031.00

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.

Preparation

ItemValue
Preparation zoneZone 5 – Extensive preparation needed
What O*NET says the zone requiresExtensive skill, knowledge, or experience is needed
Broad occupation in O*NETTrue (Yes)
Skills listed for this occupation6
Abilities listed for this occupation6
Tasks listed for this occupation5
Interest scores given for this occupation6

Skills

The 6 skills with the highest importance values in this occupation's records.

SkillO*NET elementImportanceDate
Mathematics2.A.1.e4.508/2024
Complex Problem Solving2.B.2.i4.1208/2024
Active Listening2.A.1.b4.008/2024
Critical Thinking2.A.2.a4.008/2024
Reading Comprehension2.A.1.a4.008/2024
Speaking2.A.1.d4.008/2024

The importance value is what each record itself carries on O*NET's importance scale; the date is the date in each record.

Abilities

The 6 abilities with the highest importance values in this occupation's records.

AbilityO*NET elementImportanceDate
Mathematical Reasoning1.A.1.c.14.508/2024
Deductive Reasoning1.A.1.b.44.1208/2024
Inductive Reasoning1.A.1.b.54.1208/2024
Number Facility1.A.1.c.24.008/2024
Oral Comprehension1.A.1.a.14.008/2024
Oral Expression1.A.1.a.34.008/2024

The importance value is what each record itself carries on O*NET's importance scale; the date is the date in each record.

Tasks

The tasks O*NET records for this occupation, with the type, respondent count and date each record carries.

TaskTypeIncumbents respondingDate
Present the results of mathematical modeling and data analysis to management or other end users.Core2108/2024
Define data requirements, and gather and validate information, applying judgment and statistical tests.Core2108/2024
Perform validation and testing of models to ensure adequacy, and reformulate models, as necessary.Core2108/2024
Prepare management reports defining and evaluating problems and recommending solutions.Core2108/2024
Collaborate with others in the organization to ensure successful implementation of chosen problem solutions.Core2108/2024

Work interests

The interest scores O*NET gives this occupation, on the six interest types.

InterestScoreDate
Investigative6.2611/2023
Conventional5.7711/2023
Enterprising3.1211/2023
Artistic2.1411/2023
Social2.0411/2023
Realistic1.9211/2023

More occupations in preparation zone 5

Source: O*NET 29.1 Database (Occupation Data, Job Zones, Skills, Abilities, Task Statements, Interests), U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. Data fetched 2026-10-31. See about and sources.