Tell me about it
Operational researchers look at an organisation's operations and use mathematical or computer models, or other analytical approaches, to find better ways of doing them.

The aim of operational research (OR) is to give those who make decisions a scientific basis to make their judgements. By using techniques such as mathematical modelling to analyse complex situations, OR gives executives the power to make more effective decisions and build more productive systems based on more complete data, consideration of all available options, careful predictions of outcomes and estimates of risk, and the latest decision tools and techniques.

To achieve these results, OR professionals draw upon analytical technologies such as:
· Simulation - trying out approaches and testing ideas for improvement
· Optimisation - narrowing down choices to the very best when there are virtually innumerable feasible options and comparing them is difficult
· Probability and Statistics - measuring risk, mining data to find valuable connections and insights, testing conclusions, and making reliable forecasts

The work involves a great deal of statistical analysis. Operational researchers also need to write reports and present recommendations to senior management.

Entry level
You would normally need a good honours degree (2:1 or higher) in a numerate subject, for example maths, computer science, economics, statistics, management science, business studies, physics, chemistry, engineering, or life and medical sciences. In some cases, other degree subjects (or a 2:2) may be acceptable, provided you have a good maths or statistics background to at least A level/H grade.
Some employers, particularly management consultancies, prefer applicants with postgraduate qualifications, such as a Masters in operational research or management science. A PhD may be required for university posts and for some senior management posts in government and industry.

For entry to a suitable degree course, you would usually need three A levels/four H grades in appropriate subjects, and five GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3), or the equivalent.

The Operational Research Society organises open days for undergraduates interested in OR as a career.

Making the grade
Graduates starting work in OR are likely to receive in-house training, and your employer may support part-time study for a science-based Masters degree. The Operational Research Society organises a wide range of training courses, seminars and conferences.

Recruitment to the Government Operational Research Service (GORS) takes place at regular intervals throughout the year. Knowledge of the analytical methods used in operational research and statistics is an advantage. Recruitment to the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) requires similar qualifications and experience.

As your career develops, you may decide to stay as an operational researcher and specialise in a particular business area, or you might move on to lead a team in an operational research department. This job is an excellent way to progress towards a career in general management. Many of today's senior managers started out in OR.

Personal qualities
As an operational researcher, you would need a high level of numeracy and the ability to absorb complex information, an analytical mind with excellent reasoning skills, an inventive approach to problem solving, and excellent written and presentation skills

You must be able to explain technical issues clearly and concisely to non-experts.

Looking ahead
The number of operational researchers and the use of OR techniques have increased in recent years and there are currently more vacancies than applicants. There are 3,000 members of the Operational Research Society, and many more who use OR techniques, even if their job titles do not reflect this.

The GORS employs about 300 staff in 15 departments. The DSTL, the research body of the Ministry of Defence, employs about 500. Other employers include the financial services industry, the NHS, manufacturing industries, retailers, the oil industry, the transport industries, management consultancies, and universities and research institutions.

Alternative suggestions
Other possibilities might include actuary, economist, market researcher, software engineer, statistician or systems analyst.

Take-home pay
Typical starting salaries range from around £18,000 for a recent first-degree graduate to around £32,000 for an MSc/PhD holder in London. These figures should rise with experience to £40,000 to £60,000. In management consultancies, operational research specialists tend to start at around £25,000, progressing to a mid-career salary of between £50,000 and £70,000 and possibly going up to £100,000.

Effects
Operational researchers usually work 37 hours a week, although longer hours and weekend working may be required, for example when a project deadline is approaching. It is possible to work part time or to work from home. Some operational researchers are self-employed, working as consultants on short- or long-term contracts.

Sources of information
Government Operational Research Service: www.operational-research.gov.uk
Operational Research Society: www.orsoc.org.uk and www.scienceofbetter.co.uk
Defence Science and Technology Laboratory: www.dstl.gov.uk

CRCI: TC