Operations Research Analysts vs. Computer User Support Specialists: Who Earns More?
Operations Research Analysts out-earn Computer User Support Specialists by $27K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Operations Research Analysts land at $88,940 and Computer User Support Specialists at $61,860. The education gap is real: operations research analyst programs typically require bachelor's degree, while computer user support specialist programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Operations Research Analysts is Colorado ($129,880); for Computer User Support Specialists it's District of Columbia ($80,950).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Operations Research Analysts median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Operations Research Analysts or Computer User Support Specialists?
Operations Research Analysts earn more nationally. The median is $88,940 for Operations Research Analysts versus $61,860 for Computer User Support Specialists, a difference of $27K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Operations Research Analysts or Computer User Support Specialists?
Operations Research Analysts has the better 10-year outlook at 21.5% projected growth, compared to -3.7% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Operations Research Analysts or Computer User Support Specialists?
Operations Research Analysts typically requires bachelor's degree. Computer User Support Specialists requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Operations Research Analysts get paid the most?
Colorado is the top-paying state for Operations Research Analysts at $129,880/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Operations Research Analysts vs. Computer User Support Specialists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Colorado, Operations Research Analysts earn $129,880 vs. $71,900 for Computer User Support Specialists. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.