OIM Career Pathing

Industry Areas, Concentrations, and Salaries

Supply Chain Management/Operations & Logistics

Supply chain management involves the coordination and integration of activities to ensure the efficient flow of goods, services, and information. It encompasses planning, sourcing, production, delivery, and returns, aiming to optimize operations and meet customer demands. Operations and logistics involve the management and coordination of activities related to the production, distribution, and delivery of goods and services. It encompasses the efficient planning, execution, and control of processes to optimize resources, reduce costs, and ensure timely and accurate delivery to customers.

Salary Ranges

Entry Level: $50,000-$70,000

Mid-Career: $70,000-$100,000

Information Management & Systems

Information management involves the effective organization, retrieval, and utilization of data and knowledge within an organization, ensuring its availability and accessibility for decision-making and operational purposes. Information systems, on the other hand, refer to the technology and tools used to collect, process, store, and disseminate information, facilitating the management and analysis of data to support business operations and decision-making processes. 

Salary Ranges

Entry Level: $50,000-$75,000

Mid-Career: $75,000-$110,000

Business/Data Analytics

Business analysis involves identifying, analyzing, and evaluating business needs and problems to develop practical solutions and improve organizational processes. It utilizes various techniques, such as requirements gathering, process modeling, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement, to bridge the gap between business objectives and IT solutions. 

Salary Ranges

Entry Level: $55,000-$80,000

Mid-Career: $80,000-$110,000

Project Management

Project management is the practice of planning, organizing, and overseeing the execution of a project to achieve specific goals within defined constraints such as time, budget, and resources. It involves coordinating tasks, managing teams, and monitoring progress to ensure successful project completion and the attainment of desired outcomes. 

Salary Ranges

Entry Level: $55,000-$75,000

Mid-Career: $75,000-$100,000

Consulting

Consulting involves providing expert advice, guidance, and solutions to organizations or individuals seeking assistance with specific business challenges or opportunities. Consultants leverage their expertise, industry knowledge, and analytical skills to assess situations, recommend strategies, and drive positive change within client organizations. 

Salary Ranges

Entry Level: $60,000-$80,000

Mid-Career: $80,000-$120,000

Concentrations at Isenberg

  • Integrated Operations and Information Management
  • Information Systems
  • Supply Chain Management 

Top Employers & Job Titles

Isenberg Employers

  • EY
  • Dell
  • KPMG
  • PWC
  • Epsilon
  • RSM
  • Raytheon Technologies
  • TJX
  • Oracle
  • Fidelity
  • Liberty Mutual
  • Pratt & Whitney
  • Wayfair
  • Wellington Management
  • ALKU, Amazon
  • Analog Devices
  • Anheuser-Busch
  • Atlantic Beverage Distributors
  • BJ’s Wholesale Club
  • Massaro

National Employers

  • IBM
  • General Electric
  • Johnson & Johnson
  • Walmart
  • Accenture
  • Google
  • Microsoft
  • Apple
  • Intel
    AT&T
  • Cisco Systems
  • Coca-Cola Company
  • ExxonMobil
  • Proctor & Gamble

Top Job Titles

  • Data Analyst
  • Risk Assurance Specialist
  • Demand Planner
  • Operations Analyst
  • Project Manager
  • Marketing Analyst
  • Project Manager
  • Risk Assurance Specialist
  • Project Coordinator
  • Risk Manager
  • Quality Assurance Manager
  • Financial Analyst
  • Allocation Analyst
  • Merchandise Planner
  • Supply Chain Analyst
  • Management Consultant
  • Material Planner
  • Purchasing Manager
  • Allocation Specialist
  • IT Analyst
  • Risk Advisory Specialist
  • Continuous Improvement Manager
  • Capacity Planner
  • Operations Analyst
  • Procurement Manager
  • Pricing Analyst
  • Systems Developer
  • Logistics Specialist
  • Data Operations Associate 

Clubs/Organizations & Professional Organizations

Isenberg & UMass Clubs

  • Isenberg Operations & Information Management Club
  • Isenberg Undergraduate Consulting Group
  • 180 Degrees Consulting
  • BUILD UMass
  • OIM Peer Mentorship Program
  • Business Analytics Club
  • Advancement of Diversity in Business
  • Delta Sigma Pi
  • Isenberg Women in Business

Professional Orgs

  • American Purchasing Society
  • APICS, Association for Computing Machinery
  • Association for Information Systems
  • Association for Manufacturing Excellence
  • Association for Supply Chain Management
  • Association for Operations Management
  • Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply
  • Council of Supply Chain
  • Management Professionals
  • Inbound Logistics
  • Information Management Forum
  • INFORMS
  • Institute for Supply Chain Management
  • Int’l. Federation of Purchasing & Supply Mgmt.
  • Project Management Institute
  • SAP University Alliances
  • Society for Information Management
  • Women In Supply Chain

Publications

  • Supply Chain Dive
  • Logistics Management
  • Inbound Logistics
  • Supply Chain Quarterly
  • CIO
  • InformationWeek
  • Computerworld
  • Data Science Weekly
  • Analytics Insight
  • KDnuggets
  • Journal of Big Data
  • California Management Review
  • Entrepreneur
  • Fast Company
  • Logistics Management  

Skills & Certifications

Technical Software & Tools

  • Advanced MS Excel
  • MS Access
  • PowerPoint
  • MS Project
  • SQL
  • Tableau
  • SAP
  • ERP
  • SAP
  • MS Project
  • AMPL
  • ARENA
  • Python
  • R
  • VBA
  • AMPL
  • Java

Hard Skills

  • Data Analysis
  • Data Modeling
  • Database Management
  • Process Improvement
  • Enterprise Resource Planning Systems
  • Project Management
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Quality Management
  • IT Systems & Technologies

Soft Skills

  • Written Communication
  • Problem-solving
  • Leadership
  • Organization
  • Critical Thinking
  • Adaptability
  • Time Management
  • Collaboration
  • Adaptability
  • Attention to Detail

Certifications

  • Business Data Analytics
  • Certified Supply Chain Professiona
  • Certified Associate in Project Management
  • Certified in Production & Inventory Management
  • Certified Information Systems Auditor
  • Certified Information Security Manager
  • Certified Professional in Supply Chain
  • Project Management Professional
  • AP
  • Tableau Desktop
  • Microsoft Specialist
  • Six Sigma Certifications

Four Year Success Habits for Isenberg Students

Year 1

Explore Vault Guides and Lightcast Research tool on the IConnect’s OIM Major page for an overview of jobs and careers by industry related to Operations & Information Management.

Read business publications including The Wall Street Journal (some publications are free through the UMass Library!). Employers will surely ask you about your industry knowledge – so, start learning now.

Follow companies of interest on LinkedIn and other social media outlets!

Tour companies each semester sponsored by the OIM department to gain a deeper understanding of the field. 

Consider selecting an OIM concentration, obtaining an IT minor, getting APICS or PMI certified, completing the SAP Business Suite program, or choosing a double major or minor outside of Isenberg.

Discover and get involved in Isenberg and UMass clubs and organizations related to your major, affinity group, and interests. Join student government, residential life, or volunteer with community service opportunities.

Set your preferences in IConnect to receive tailored and relevant information including jobs, blogs, resources, emails, and event blasts based on your major, affinity group, and more!

Join the OIM Peer Mentorship Program! This new program’s mission is to create closer connections between OIM students. You can expect to receive support and guidance from peer mentors as you navigate academic and professional decisions.

Get to know the Business Librarian, Allison Messier in 1:1 appointments at Isenberg or via online chats. Learn how these resources can support your future internship and job search activities. 

Begin to “professionalize” your experience profile!  Gain skills and work experience through a micro-internship/externship (i.e. Paragon One or Parker Dewey), or simulated work experience (i.e. Forage or Bright Networks).  

Get started on writing your Isenberg Resume, developing a LinkedIn Profile and building your Competency Inventory. 

Familiarize yourself with relevant software tools and technologies used in OIM, such as spreadsheet analysis, database management, data visualization, project management, and process modeling. Take advantage of online tutorials, workshops, or certifications to build proficiency in these tools.

Learn from others. Ask an upper classman to have coffee with you, get to know your Transitions peers and TAs, or chat with a Career Peer! Practice networking in a casual and relaxed atmosphere. This success habit continues as you move through your professional development process!

Leverage the search terms “freshman” freshmen and “rising sophomore” in job boards (UMass Handshake, LinkedIn, Indeed.com) if seeking summer internships.

Check out events such as employer series, meet & greet opportunities like tabling in the Hub, and virtual information sessions posted on the calendar through IConnect! Event type varies between virtual and in-person.

Learn how your town’s Chamber of Commerce = Internships (Career Coaches can show you how!)

Get your recruiting feet wet by engaging with employers and recruiters tabling in the Learning Commons (in the Hub)!  

Year 2

Check out how credits work for internships at Isenberg.

Learn the difference between externship, internship and co-op. Discover how a Co-op = Resume Booster! (Ask a Career Peer or Career Coach!).

Thinking of Going Abroad? PLAN NOW and meet with a Career Coach to understand how being abroad may impact internship recruiting timelines.

The Undergraduate Business Analytics Certificate program helps prepare students to analyze data and make data-driven recommendations to improve business performance. Consider pursuing this option if you have an interest in analytics and boosting your resume!

Identify SOPHOMORE and Affinity Group focused “Summit”, “Leadership” and other early professional development engagements hosted by numerous employers.

Seek and step into committees and/or leadership positions in your Isenberg and UMass clubs and organizations to allow you to gain skills in project/event/team management.

Interested in Consulting? Apply to the Isenberg Undergraduate Consulting Group as a junior analyst or join UMass consulting groups, 180 Degree Consulting or UMass BUILD!

Apply for opportunities as a Career Peer in the Office of Career Success!

Update your Competency Inventory with new skills and accomplishments. Bring to Career Coach appointments to help further progress!

Investigate Early Talent and Diversity and Inclusion programs offered by employers and other organizations.

If interested in consulting or technical opportunities, begin practicing and preparing for case and technical interviews. Start by reviewing the Interview Prep Guide on IConnect!

Sharpen focus on interests through attending industry focused sessions, speaker series via clubs and conference events at Isenberg and on-campus.

Build relationships with advisors, faculty, and staff. They can provide you with insights and understanding that could influence your choice of a major or pursuit of a career. They may also become a key part of your professional network.


Network with UMass Alumni in various OIM careers through LinkedIn or Connect UMass. Consider setting up an informational interview with them to ask questions and gain valuable advice!

Realize the efficiency of using Handshake filters! You can refine your job/internship search and find opportunities that align with your preferences and qualifications. Remember to adjust the filters as needed to tailor your search to your specific needs and career goals.


Use “Sophomore” as keyword in job board searches (Handshake, LinkedIn, Indeed).

Participate in on-campus recruiting! Explore internship and co-op options early. For major employers and many internships in OIM, application deadlines can vary but may be as early as September. Check out postings on Handshake, LinkedIn, Indeed, and industry-specific job boards, and company web sites to learn about required skills and qualifications. 

Year 3

Explore internships and co-op options early to prepare for early fall deadlines. Find postings on Handshake, LinkedIn, industry specific job boards, and direct company sites.

Make time in your weekly schedule for Career and Professional Development Activity! Another success habit to grow!

Stay Informed about OIM Industry Trends: Stay updated on latest innovations and technologies shaping the OIM field. Subscribe to industry newsletters, follow relevant blogs or social media accounts, and engage in discussions with peers and faculty members.

Study Abroad or Experience a Domestic Exchange. Remember, you can still meet with a Career Coach virtually for any career questions and concerns!

Stay positive. Maintain a positive attitude and be flexible and realistic. The internship/co-op search can take time – Have at least one focus area, but pursue alternatives.

Identify and participate in Case and Pitch Competitions, and on campus conference events to expand your resume and skills!

Develop your professionalism – enhance communication and time management skills, practice business etiquette, seek mentorship, join a professional organization, maintain a professional online presence, and more!

Utilize your Competency Inventory and experiences to draft “STAR” examples for interview questions. Practice interviewing on Big Interview and make time to mock interview with Chase Career Coaches.

Update and refine resume and LinkedIn to amp up keywords with specific coursework and projects

Attend Isenberg Career Days (September) and Career Blast (February) in addition to other OCS events for career development in your specific area of interest.

Identify and request information from alumni in target fields/companies on LinkedIn and Connect UMass. Prioritize time for building connections, networking, and maintaining relationships. Continue to collect all information in your Networking/Job Search tracking document.

Expand your network with Isenberg seniors and recent graduates to learn about possible internships/co-ops and contacts.

Pay attention to IConnect blasts in your Isenberg email to stay on top of career-related activities, events, and job postings.

Expecting an internship or early full-time offer? Learn how to manage multiple offers and offer response deadlines. A Career Coach can show you how to manage these situations.

Year 4

Don’t panic if you’re still not sure what you want to do! Meet with a Career Coach for guidance!

Stay open to new possible career or employer options, continue to learn about career paths in different areas of your industries.

Considering an advanced degree after graduation? Meet with a Career Coach to discuss how this fits into your future career goals!

Seek a research project with professors to add interesting content to resume.

Celebrate and highlight leadership accomplishments in interviews and while networking such as club leadership, significant work or academic role!

Tailor resume with industry specific keywords and make sure it speaks to the job you are applying for by analyzing the job description; add major coursework and projects for depth.

Highlight Commonwealth College Thesis on resume, if relevant.

Practice problem-solving by tackling complex real-world issues and finding effective solutions. 

Engage with corporate representatives at Business Innovation Hub events.

Expand network in specific areas of interest. Update Networking and Job Search Tracking Sheet.

Complete the Isenberg Senior Survey in the Spring semester and contribute your placement information to Isenberg’s data!

Update LinkedIn profile with accomplishments and employment news. Commit to maintaining an updated profile beyond graduation.

Regularly assess Sunday emails full of opportunities from the Office of Career Success!

Gain insight into job offer evaluation and the protocol around accepting and declining opportunities.

Add new employers to your Networking and Job Search Tracking document. Leverage your research to find the best opportunity!

Go beyond on campus postings and employers to discover additional opportunities.