Employment in the business industry is on the rise, in spite of – or, in some cases, because of – the recent economic struggles. Many business degree-holders are relieved to find increased opportunities available in many different sectors, from high-level corporate positions to administrative positions handling the day-to-day aspects of the business world. The industry is experiencing high rates of job creation, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates more than 22% growth through 2020.

Increasing Demand for Business Operations Specialists

Business operations specialists are trained in a variety of fields, depending on specific concentrations available in business school. Many are employed in administrative capacities, working to ensure efficiency and order within a business’s office environment. Employment positions include administrative assistant, executive assistant, receptionist, stenographer, and executive secretary. For any business to reach its full potential, professionals like these are necessary to promote organization in a professional office. Business operations specialists are responsible for communications within and outside of the office, data organization and record keeping, maintenance of office tools and machinery, and other duties like these. As businesses battle their competitors for consumers and clients, business operations specialists are especially valuable as they support upper-level employees and contribute to the efficient and productive workplace.

Business operations specialists must have a high school diploma or equivalent, though many entry-level positions call for applicants to hold bachelor’s degrees; a graduate degree makes a candidate even more desirable. As of 2010 BLS reports, these professionals earned a median annual salary of $62,450.

Job Outlook for Business Operations Specialists

As businesses grow and emerge into new markets, so increases their need for business operations specialists. 2010 BLS reports indicate that in 2010, over 1 million of these professionals were employed, and the projected growth through the next several years is 11.6%. It is expected that 123,100 new business operations specialist positions will become available to job-seekers.