Operational researcher

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• a government graduate training scheme

University

You'll usually need a degree in maths and operational research, or a related subject that contains a high proportion of maths, for example:

• statistics
• computing
• economics
• management science
• physics

Some employers may prefer you to have a postgraduate qualification in operational research or management science.

Entry requirements:

• 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You could apply to do an Operational Research Specialist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship.

This apprenticeship typically takes 2 years to complete.

Most trainee operational researchers are graduates with strong maths and analytical skills.

Entry requirements:

• a degree in a relevant subject

OtherRoutes

You could apply for a place on the Government Operational Research Service Fast Stream scheme .

To be eligible, you'll need a degree in maths, or a combined degree or degree apprenticeship that has a high maths content. A postgraduate award in a maths related subject may also be acceptable.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Skills:

• 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
• persistence and determination
• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
• customer service skills
• knowledge of human resources and employment law
• thinking and reasoning skills
• knowledge of English language
• the ability to read English
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
• excellent written communication skills
• concentration skills
• a good memory

What you'll do:

Operational researchers analyse problems and find ways to help organisations make better decisions and improve the way they work.

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

Location : You could work in an office or from home.

Salary:

Starter : £26,000
Experienced : £60,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 39 hours a week

Working Pattern is between 8am and 6pm

Career Path:

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.