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Federal operations research analyst position performing mathematical modeling, systems analysis, simulation, and quantitative methods for decision support at defense and federal agencies.
2025 Base Pay (before locality adjustment)
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
| GS-11 | $63,163 | $65,268 | $67,373 | $69,478 | $71,583 | $73,688 | $75,793 | $77,898 | $80,003 | $82,108 |
| GS-12 | $75,706 | $78,229 | $80,752 | $83,275 | $85,798 | $88,321 | $90,844 | $93,367 | $95,890 | $98,422 |
| GS-13 | $90,025 | $93,026 | $96,027 | $99,028 | $102,029 | $105,030 | $108,031 | $111,032 | $114,033 | $117,034 |
| GS-14 | $106,382 | $109,928 | $113,474 | $117,020 | $120,566 | $124,112 | $127,658 | $131,204 | $134,750 | $138,296 |
| GS-15 | $125,133 | $129,304 | $133,475 | $137,646 | $141,817 | $145,988 | $150,159 | $154,330 | $158,501 | $162,672 |
Note: These are 2025 base pay rates. Most federal employees receive locality pay adjustments of 15-40%+ depending on location.
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-1515
Degree: in operations research; or at least 24 semester hours in a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or subject-matter courses requiring substantial competence in college-level mathematics or statistics. At least 3 of the 24 semester hours must have been in calculus.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal operations research position
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
Match your years of experience and education to the appropriate GS grade. Generally: GS-5 (entry), GS-7/9 (junior), GS-11/12 (journey), GS-13+ (senior).
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
Military jobs that transition to GS-1515
This role involves similar tasks such as developing optimization models and conducting systems analysis, making it a strong fit for GS-1515.
Operations research pathway. Analytical methods.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Ability to develop mathematical models for complex problems.
Knowledge of optimization techniques and algorithms.
Skill in developing and using simulation models.
Ability to analyze large datasets and extract insights.
Proficiency in analytical programming languages.
Strong foundation in statistical methods.
Ability to present analytical findings to decision makers.
Skill in applying analytical methods to real-world problems.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
A GS-1515 Operations Research Analyst applies mathematical modeling, simulation, and quantitative analysis to complex decision-making problems. These analysts develop optimization models, simulate operational scenarios, conduct cost-benefit analyses, and support strategic decisions for DOD, DHS, DOE, and other agencies facing complex resource allocation, logistics, or operational challenges.
Federal Operations Research Analysts earn between $34,454 (GS-5 Step 1) and $162,672 (GS-15 Step 10) on the 2025 GS scale. Most positions are at GS-12 through GS-14. A GS-13 OR Analyst earns $90,025-$117,034. DOD (largest employer), DHS, and analytical agencies offer positions. Senior analysts and team leads reach GS-14/15 with total compensation exceeding $175,000 in high-cost areas.
GS-1515 requires a degree in operations research OR at least 24 semester hours in operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or quantitative courses requiring substantial college-level math or statistics. At least 3 of those 24 hours must be in calculus. Strong programming and analytical skills are essential.
The required coursework cannot be fully substituted with experience alone. However, military OR analysts are among the best-prepared candidates—their operational experience combined with quantitative training is ideal. Veterans from Army ORSA program, Navy operations analysis, or Air Force analytical roles have exceptional backgrounds. Military combat modeling and wargaming experience is highly valued.
OR Analysts follow the GS-5/7/9/11/12 progression with journey level at GS-12 or GS-13. Senior analysts and division chiefs reach GS-14/15. Career paths include specializing in specific domains (logistics, manpower, cost analysis), transitioning to leadership of analytical organizations, or moving into defense policy positions requiring quantitative expertise.
Search USAJOBS.gov for "Operations Research Analyst" or "ORSA" under series 1515. DOD components (Army, Navy, Air Force, OSD), DHS, DOE, and analytical agencies are primary employers. Highlight mathematical modeling skills, simulation experience, programming proficiency (Python, R, MATLAB), and specific analytical projects. Include clearance status—many positions require Secret or TS/SCI.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.