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Job outlook for operations associates in the United States
Operations associate job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected operations associate job growth rate is -8% from 2018-2028.
About -286,900 new jobs for operations associates are projected over the next decade.
Operations associate salaries have increased 9% for operations associates in the last 5 years.
There are over 148,402 operations associates currently employed in the United States.
There are 70,275 active operations associate job openings in the US.
The average operations associate salary is $52,703.
Are operations associate jobs in demand?
Operations associate job and salary trends over time
Operations associate jobs over time
Operations associate job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 148,402 | 0.04% |
| 2020 | 57,606 | 0.02% |
| 2019 | 58,118 | 0.02% |
| 2018 | 152,759 | 0.05% |
| 2017 | 144,238 | 0.04% |
Average operations associate salary over time
Operations associate salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $52,703 | $25.34 | +4.0% |
| 2025 | $50,697 | $24.37 | +2.4% |
| 2024 | $49,509 | $23.80 | +0.7% |
| 2023 | $49,144 | $23.63 | +1.4% |
| 2022 | $48,463 | $23.30 | +1.3% |
Operations associate jobs by state
Most common states for operations associates
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 188 | 27% |
| 2 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 176 | 23% |
| 3 | Vermont | 623,657 | 139 | 22% |
| 4 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 121 | 21% |
| 5 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 207 | 20% |
| 6 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 575 | 19% |
| 7 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 953 | 17% |
| 8 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 687 | 17% |
| 9 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 317 | 17% |
| 10 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 180 | 17% |
| 11 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 148 | 17% |
| 12 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 1,636 | 16% |
| 13 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 1,465 | 16% |
| 14 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 1,196 | 16% |
| 15 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 208 | 16% |
| 16 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 1,549 | 15% |
| 17 | Indiana | 6,666,818 | 1,017 | 15% |
| 18 | Alaska | 739,795 | 109 | 15% |
| 19 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 1,805 | 14% |
| 20 | Delaware | 961,939 | 134 | 14% |
Most common cities for operations associates
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Novi | 9 | 15% | $47,396 |
| 2 | Cambridge | 8 | 7% | $69,642 |
| 3 | Santa Clarita | 9 | 5% | $63,403 |
| 4 | Denver | 20 | 3% | $40,200 |
| 5 | Boston | 17 | 3% | $69,714 |
| 6 | Atlanta | 13 | 3% | $41,053 |
| 7 | Orlando | 9 | 3% | $40,316 |
| 8 | Indianapolis | 13 | 2% | $43,712 |
| 9 | Baltimore | 12 | 2% | $59,386 |
| 10 | Washington | 12 | 2% | $54,210 |
| 11 | Miami | 11 | 2% | $39,982 |
| 12 | Sacramento | 9 | 2% | $64,896 |
| 13 | New York | 60 | 1% | $73,362 |
| 14 | Los Angeles | 22 | 1% | $63,172 |
| 15 | Chicago | 14 | 1% | $59,522 |
| 16 | Austin | 13 | 1% | $43,024 |
| 17 | San Francisco | 13 | 1% | $66,486 |
| 18 | Phoenix | 11 | 1% | $44,806 |
| 19 | Jacksonville | 10 | 1% | $40,159 |
| 20 | Philadelphia | 8 | 1% | $56,828 |
Operations Associate job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of operations associate experts
University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg
San Diego Mesa College
Fashion Institute of Technology
What will help Operations Associates increase their earning potential?
Dorothy Zilic: Experience continues to be an important factor when entering the workforce in numerous fields. The majority of employers want to see some kind of related experience, such as an internship, part-time employment, volunteer/service and course-related experiences relevant to their major. There are many employers offering internships, both in-person and virtual. There are also numerous volunteer opportunities to explore that are virtual in nature. This can be a time to be creative! Some students and graduates start their own businesses for example.
It is important to look at the requirements of entry-level jobs within the industry to know what experience one should strive for throughout his/her college career. There are several fields, such as Accounting and Public Relations/Marketing, where more than one internship may be advisable. Including a "Related Experience" section on a resume allows the students/candidates to display their most relevant work quickly to an employer.
Skills are also noteworthy and may help someone to be a competitive applicant when applying. Are there skills the employer is seeking, such as needing proficiency with Excel for an Accounting position? In addition to highlighting examples of related experience on a resume, skills are essential to include on a resume, cover letter, and/or in an interview. There may be skills specific to the position and also transferable skills.
Transferrable skills are beneficial to showcase because they transcend the position. These skills may be applicable to any position and often when employers interview, they use behavioral interviewing to determine how someone has reacted/acted in the past to help them to predict how the person will behave in the future. These skills and also one's attitude can show he/she is a capable and enthusiastic candidate.
While in college, students may work in different areas other than their chosen field of study. They may have had part-time positions that are more related to their major, but they might not be as directly related. It is important to think about each position/experience one has had, what has been learned, and what strengths have been brought out or enhanced. When talking to students about their strengths, I often ask the question, "What was the worst day you had on the job?" Thinking about one's most difficult day and how he/she handled it can demonstrate where a person's strengths lie and this is important to remember when talking about skills, abilities, and values. Connecting with the institution's career centers and all the wonderful resources at one's disposal (e.g., faculty, advisors, staff, peers, personal network) can help students not only navigate the job search process, but also to learn how to effectively discuss their experience, skills, and how to market/brand themselves. Each person has so much to give and bring to a position. I encourage students to think about their experiences (e.g., course-related, employment, internship, volunteer, club/organization, public service) and the valuable things they take away from them.
Meegan Feori Ph.D.
Associate ProfessorSan Diego Mesa College
Department is Business Department
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Operations Associate job market given the pandemic?
Meegan Feori Ph.D.: According to Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company (2020), the pandemic is accelerating the pre-existing trends of digital shopping and consumer support of social justice. This will impact the skills necessary to complete existing jobs; it may also introduce new job functions within the fashion industry. People will need to "learn, unlearn, and relearn" skills (Toffler; 1970, p. 414). At a foundational skill level, problem-solving, statistics, emotional intelligence, and collaboration are paramount. The fashion industry has a track record of adopting emerging technologies and anticipating cultural shifts. Therefore, I recommend making an effort to involve yourself with artificial intelligence, virtual reality, 3D prototyping, or other emerging technology. Also, being knowledgeable of sustainability, inclusivity, and ethical business practices will serve you well.
What Operations Associate skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Meegan Feori Ph.D.: My recommendation is to combine your interests and career goals. For example, if you are an avid rock climber, you could apply for an internship with the North Face or start a retail position at an REI near Red Rock, Nevada, a place known for excellent rock climbing. If relocating for your gap year is not possible, then seek out a local option such as working at the nearby climbing gym. Customers are crucial to the fashion industry, enhancing your customer service skills during your gap year will benefit you. You could apply to be a Stitch Fix stylist, a boutique, or a non-profit resale salesperson. Even customer service jobs outside of the fashion industry will build experiences that will enhance your abilities to design, produce, or sell amazing products. Another option is to pursue an entrepreneurial venture. Dedicating yourself to creating an influential Instagram account, podcast, or YouTube channel could showcase your skills and build your network. Opening a Poshmark, Depop, Teespring, Etsy, or another digital retail store could let you apply your skills. Finally, keep investing in yourself through learning. There are many massive open online courses and community college offerings that could further your career.
What soft skills should all Operations Associates possess?
Alexander Nagel Ph.D.: Soft skills needed are flexibilities to adapt quickly to new opportunities, to be open to non-traditional career paths. Being organized and responsive to email correspondence, being friendly and kind, having empathy are values that will never be out of fashion. FIT is known for being home to "unconventional minds," and our students are super creative, engaged, and ready to take on challenges.