Operational Researcher

Also known as
Management scientist

Become a “hero of science"

Help organisations make better decisions and improve the way they work. This job needs business savvy plus top analytical, IT, and maths skills to make processes run better.

At a glance

What can you expect from this role?
Average salary per year
£26000
Starter
Experienced
£26000
£60000
Typical hours
37 to 39 a week
You could work between 8am and 6pm
Flexible working hours?
Need a lab coat?
Not usually!

What to expect

Day-to-day tasks

As an operational researcher, you'll:

  • speak to staff and managers to learn about what they do and how they work
  • collect and analyse data, using mathematical and statistical methods
  • create computer models to test solutions to problems
  • identify areas for improvement and recommend changes
  • present findings to senior management teams
  • monitor changes to make sure they are working

Working environment

You could work in an office or from home.

More Information

Professional and industry bodies

You could join The Operational Research Society for professional development opportunities.

Further information

You can find out more about careers in operational research from The Operational Research Society.

Explore the different ways to get into this role

People in these types of job started their career paths after studying courses like the ones below.

University

You'll usually need a degree in maths and operational research, or a related subject that contains a high proportion of…
Learn more

Apprenticeship

You could apply to do an Operational Research Specialist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship. This apprenticeship typically takes 2 years to…
Learn more

Other Routes

You could apply for a place on the Government Operational Research Service Fast Stream scheme. To be eligible, you'll need a…
Learn more

Discover the skills you need for this role

People in these types of job possess skills like the ones below.

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • maths skills
  • analytical thinking skills
  • business management skills
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • the ability to use your initiative
  • active listening skills
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • the ability to work well with others
  • to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Career progression

Career progression opportunities include

With experience you could become a research team leader or project manager, then move on to managing an operational research department within a large organisation.

You can find work and career development opportunities in the public and private sector, including:

  • the health service
  • government departments
  • the defence industry
  • retail, financial services and higher education

You could also become self-employed and work as a business or management consultant.

Related Careers

Those who are typically interested in this role may also like to consider these other opportunities
View all job roles
crosschevron-downchevron-rightarrow-leftarrow-right linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram