Operations Research
14 open positions in this category
Operations research analysts in the 1515 series build mathematical and statistical models to support decisions: how to schedule aircraft and crews, where to hold inventory, what a weapon system will cost over its life, how a staffing change affects throughput. In government the work concentrates in the Defense Department, where cost analysis and force modeling are long-standing specialties, and at the Federal Aviation Administration, which models air traffic and safety. Listings here have come from the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Transportation, the Department of Defense, the Treasury, the Commerce Department and the Judicial Branch.
Recent listings have included operations research analysts and a senior operations research analyst, a position posted under direct hire authority, a cost analysis branch chief, a director of operations analysis, a data analyst, an export control manager and a graduate student research assistant.
Applying tip: 1515 carries a positive education requirement, a degree in operations research or one with substantial coursework in mathematics, statistics and related subjects including calculus, so list the relevant courses on your resume and attach transcripts, and name the modeling tools and languages you use. The federal resume guide explains how to document coursework.
The Operations Research category has 14 open listings in our inventory right now: 1 fully remote and 13 telework eligible. 12 were posted in the last 30 days, the newest on Oct 5, 2026. Advertised pay runs $44,578 to $228,000 a year, typically about $126,925. GS grades range from 13 to 14. Employers with the most listings: Federal Aviation Administration (5), United States Space Force Forces (2), Air Force Materiel Command (1). Figures as of Oct 6, 2026, refreshed daily.