Operations Research Analyst Salary in Ames

Uses mathematical and analytical methods to help organizations solve complex operational problems.

Ranks #205 of 530 metros·Iowa·$94,661 avg

Ames ranks #205 of 530 U.S. metro areas for operations research analyst pay. Entry-level salaries here are $9,315 below the national average.

Level I
$49,982
vs national avg: -16%
Level II
$72,218
vs national avg: -3%
Level III
$94,432
vs national avg: +6%
Level IV
$116,667
vs national avg: +12%

Ames vs National Average

LevelThis MetroNational AvgDifference% Change
Level I (Entry)$49,982$59,297$-9,315-15.7%
Level II$72,218$74,381$-2,163-2.9%
Level III (Mid)$94,432$89,466+$4,966+5.6%
Level IV (Senior)$116,667$104,550+$12,117+11.6%

Other metros in Iowa

Metro AreaLevel ILevel IVAverage
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$85,571$148,013$127,400
Southeast Iowa$63,544$135,595$111,821
Omaha$59,072$118,373$98,800
Southwest Iowa$55,266$118,581$97,698
Des Moines-West Des Moines$52,416$118,810$96,907

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average operations research analyst salary in Ames?

The average operations research analyst salary in Ames is $94,661 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Ames at rank #205 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.

What do entry-level operations research analysts earn in Ames?

Entry-level operations research analysts (Level I) in Ames earn $49,982 per year. Level II (early career) earns $72,218, reflecting growing independence and experience.

How does Ames compare to the national average for operations research analyst salaries?

Ames ranks #205 of 530 U.S. metro areas for operations research analyst pay. Entry-level salaries here are $9,315 below the national average. The national average operations research analyst salary is $89,616, while Ames workers average $94,661 — a difference of +6% overall.

Data source: Salary data sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, which surveys employers nationwide to collect wage data by occupation and geography. The four experience levels reflect DOL standardized tiers. Data reflects the most recently published survey cycle. SOC code: 15-2031.