Decision Scientist | Operations Research, Optimization

Decision Scientist | Operations Research, Optimization

Join to apply for the Decision Scientist | Operations Research, Optimization role at Delta Air Lines

At Delta Air Lines, connection is at the heart of everything we do—and behind the scenes, our Operations Research Optimization team powers the decisions that keep the world’s most reliable airline running. We transform complex operational challenges into decision-support tools that move 180 million customers and 90 000 employees every year. Our team is looking to hire decision scientists and senior decision scientists as we evolve and innovate.

This is not back-office analytics—it’s front-line impact. The algorithms you design will determine how crews are assigned, how aircraft are routed, and how Delta recovers from disruptions. You’ll see your models go live in production environments that save millions annually and define the future of airline operations. Your solutions and ideas will come to life across the enterprise, with huge impact on our customers and employees.

We strive to welcome and care for all our customers during their travels with us and aim to deliver an elevated experience—you can help us do that. We’re committed to fostering innovation, and we’re excited to invite you to be part of our journey as we shape the future of technology at the world’s best airline!

• Formulate and implement mathematical models that optimize Delta’s network, fleet, and crew decisions.
• Design algorithms and decision-support applications that improve efficiency, reliability, and customer experience.
• Partner with operations, technology, and data engineering teams to move models from prototype to production.
• Analyze large-scale, real-time data to drive measurable cost savings and operational resilience.
• Communicate model insights and trade-offs clearly to senior stakeholders and cross-functional partners.

• Work on high-visibility projects that impact global operations within weeks of deployment.
• Collaborate across Tech Ops, Network Planning, and Flight Ops to solve industry-first optimization problems.
• Join a team that invests in professional growth and values innovators who turn math into motion.

• Education:
  
  M.S. in Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, Industrial Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• Technical Depth:
  Strong foundation in optimization modeling, algorithms, and simulation.
• Programming:
  Proficiency in Python and/or C++ with experience using optimization solvers (Gurobi, CPLEX, Xpress).
• Problem Solving:
  Ability to translate business problems into quantitative models and explain results to non-technical audiences.
• Collaboration:
  
  Thrives in a team environment and comfortable partnering with business and technical leaders.
• Communication:
  Strong verbal and written skills for presenting complex ideas clearly and persuasively.

• PhD or advanced degree.
• 1+ year of experience in airline, transportation, or logistics optimization.
• Experience with algebraic modeling languages.
• Knowledge of simulation modeling and data visualization techniques.
• Experience deploying optimization models into cloud or distributed environments (e.g., AWS).
• Mixed Integer (MIP) and Linear Programming experience.

• Competitive salary, industry-leading profit sharing program, and performance incentives.
• 401(k) with generous company contributions up to 9%.
• New hires eligible for up to 56 hours of paid personal time within a 12-month period.
• 10 paid holidays per calendar year.
• Parents eligible for 12-weeks of paid maternity/parental leave and 2-weeks for non-birthing parents.
• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, vision, short/long term disability, and life insurance.
• Family care assistance through fertility support, surrogacy and adoption assistance, lactation support, subsidized backup care, and programs that help with loved ones in all stages.
• Holistic Wellbeing programs supporting physical, emotional, social, and financial health.
• Domestic and international flight privileges for employees and eligible family members.
• Career development programs to achieve long-term career goals.
• Worldwide partnerships focusing on sustainability and reducing carbon footprint.
• Business Resource Groups promoting inclusion and perspective.
• Recognition rewards through the Unstoppable Together platform.
• Access to over 500 discounts and voluntary benefits through Deltaperks.

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