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Operations research analyst skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

6 min read

Quoted experts

Dr. Jackie Gallagher,

Pooyan Kazemian Ph.D.

Operations research analyst example skills

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical operations research analyst skills. We ranked the top skills for operations research analysts based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 19.5% of operations research analyst resumes contained operations research as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills an operations research analyst needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 operations research analyst skills for your resume and career

1. Operations Research

Operations research is an act of developing and applying advanced analytical methods to improve decision-making. It is a part of mathematical sciences. Common examples of operations research include Linear Programming, Network Analysis, Inventory Control Systems etc. Operations research is mainly conducted to improve an existing decision-making system.

Here's how operations research analysts use operations research:

Provided economic risk and operations research analyses supporting decision-making on major new initiatives, strategic planning and investment and spending priorities.
Provide operations research and systems simulation analysis on the operational performance and effectiveness utilizing government approved simulation models.

2. DOD

Definition of Done (DoD) is a set of deliverables that are needed to devise software. These deliverables are valuable to the system and can be exemplified by writing code, coding comments, unit testing, integration testing, design documents, release notes, and so on.

Here's how operations research analysts use dod:

Project lead of DoD sponsored completed computer simulation projects.
Tracked federal budget cycle and analyzed annual DOD POM, for impacts to programs of interest to US Strategic Command.

3. Python

Python is a widely-known programming language. It is an object-oriented and all-purpose, coding language that can be used for software development as well as web development.

Here's how operations research analysts use python:

Developed an online user profiling system in Python
Created Python scripts to analyze data collected from testing log files and to verify instrument settings.

4. Statistical Analysis

Here's how operations research analysts use statistical analysis:

Completed statistical analysis of the initial design verification process to further the development of an advanced energy surgical product.
Traveled to various company locations to train users in newly developed programs for tracking financial consolidations and statistical analysis.

5. C++

C++ is a general-purpose programming language that is used to create high-performing applications. It was invented as an extension to the C language. C++ lets the programmer have a high level of domination over memory and system resources. C++ is an object-oriented language that helps you implement real-time issues based on different data functions

Here's how operations research analysts use c++:

Developed software using Visual Studio Net in Visual Basic, C#, and C++.
Developed and implemented real-time systems to schedule paper machines in C++.

6. Data Analysis

Here's how operations research analysts use data analysis:

Design and implement the data analysis processors for all simulation-based studies in air & missile and chemical-biological defense analyses.
Performed data analysis and developed predictive models based on historical data in support of program and management objectives.

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7. Data Collection

Data collection means to analyze and collect all the necessary information. It helps in carrying out research and in storing important and necessary information. The most important goal of data collection is to gather the information that is rich and accurate for statistical analysis.

Here's how operations research analysts use data collection:

Worked cross-functionally to improve the quality of internal reporting by systematically integrating data collection into the case management system.
Entered configuration file/instruction data into C4I operating systems and test platforms directing data reporting and data collection processes.

8. Visualization

Here's how operations research analysts use visualization:

Designed visualization components to show correlation intensities with Crystal Reports.
Used different business intelligence and data visualization tools such as Spitfire and Excel to create dashboards and reports.

9. MATLAB

Here's how operations research analysts use matlab:

Constructed Matlab scripts to output requested charts and data for client specific basis.
Utilized enhanced firm-specific software in conjunction with MATLAB to simulate industry-standard figures.

10. Statistical Methods

Here's how operations research analysts use statistical methods:

Develop and evaluate alternative solutions to problems using statistical methods/software and present to Program managers using power point.
Apply scientific and statistical methods to analyze processes, identify improvement areas, and develop solutions.

11. Math

Here's how operations research analysts use math:

Utilized advanced financial math skills to mathematically model annuity policies for regression testing of annuity administration system.
Experienced in the use of basic math in preparing team tool box daily audits and weekly spread sheets.

12. Emerging Technologies

Here's how operations research analysts use emerging technologies:

Evaluated the application of emerging technologies and concepts to enhance warfighter capabilities against WMD.
Serve as subject matter expert to provide direction and oversight in issues, emerging technologies, and coordination for action items.

13. Mathematical Models

Here's how operations research analysts use mathematical models:

Performed analysis for major phases of varied systems using mathematical models, instrumentation, modeling, and simulation.
Applied quantitative analysis and Six Sigma practices to mathematical model the daily operations and formulated min-cost algorithms.

14. SQL

Here's how operations research analysts use sql:

Developed SQL code to query the Bureau of Transportation Statistics historical airline database and prepare the data for the optimization model.
Developed Extract Transform Load (ETL) procedures to integrate many data sources with SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS).

15. PowerPoint

Here's how operations research analysts use powerpoint:

Prepared clear and concise PowerPoint project updates and presentations for high level executives.
Documented the implementation of IGS (PowerPoint).

5 Operations Research Analyst resume examples

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What skills help Operations Research Analysts find jobs?

Tell us what job you are looking for, we’ll show you what skills employers want.

What skills stand out on operations research analyst resumes?

Dr. Jackie Gallagher

Associate Professor, Chair, University of Mary Washington

Students need to be able to communicate well, in writing and by speaking - I think these are the most important skills for anyone. It can be hard to demonstrate on a resume, so a portfolio or web page is incredibly useful! Beyond that, the ability to find good, reliable, information, to be able to do research, to think critically, and to assess information critically. Again, these are hard to demonstrate on a resume, but individual research, internships, presentations at a conference, these are the ways that a student might really stand out.
GIS skills are incredibly valuable for geography majors, but are not absolutely essential. One or two classes in GIS are useful; our undergraduate certificate, especially if it includes Python programming language, is very valuable.
Hard skills like word processing, use of spreadsheets, production of slide shows and posters, and creation of web pages round out my list!

What soft skills should all operations research analysts possess?

Pooyan Kazemian Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Operations, Case Western Reserve University

The most important soft skills, in my opinion, are communication skills and teamwork. OR Analysts often work as part of a team to solve real-world problems. Hence, working as part of a large team and communicating effectively with other team members is critical to the individual's and the team's success.

What hard/technical skills are most important for operations research analysts?

Pooyan Kazemian Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Operations, Case Western Reserve University

It can vary based on the specific position/industry, but a working knowledge of mathematical modeling, optimization, statistical analysis, machine learning, and programming languages such as R and Python are fundamental technical skills needed for most OR Analyst positions.

What operations research analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?

Cheryl Dorsey

Lecturer, Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology

Regarding a gap year, I think if a graduate needs to, take a gap year. It would be beneficial to join professional organizations (many provide student discounts) and to participate in online trainings and webinars of interest to enhance skills.

What technical skills for an operations research analyst stand out to employers?

Carolyn Cousin Ph.D.

Professor, University of the District of Columbia

In biology, you must have skills in molecular biology or biotechnology. You must be able to analyze data and relate it to the known literature which is obtained mainly from refereed journal articles in the field. You must have exceptional writing skills. No one has the time to teach you how to write.

Do you want to know more?

List of operations research analyst skills to add to your resume

The most important skills for an operations research analyst resume and required skills for an operations research analyst to have include:

Operations Research
DOD
Python
Statistical Analysis
C++
Data Analysis
Data Collection
Visualization
MATLAB
Statistical Methods
Math
Emerging Technologies
Mathematical Models
SQL
PowerPoint
Co-Op
Linear Programming

Logistics
SAS
Scientific Methods
Java
Project Management
ORSA
Analytical Support
Analyze Data
Cost Analysis
Analytical Methods
Program Management
Technical Reports
VBA
Risk Analysis
SharePoint
Systems Analysis
Regression

Technical Expertise
DHS
Software Development
National Security
SME
SPSS
R
Combat
Prototyping
Process Improvement
Cost Estimates
Operational Test
Simulation Models
Test Methods
Test Results

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Updated January 8, 2025

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