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Combinatorial Optimization Jobs in Washington, DC

TheIncLab

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Mclean, VA

$105K - $145K/yr

Combinatorial and constraint-based optimization Heuristic and learning-based optimization approaches * Own data pipelines for ML systems * Data validation and quality checks * Feature engineering and ...

TheIncLab

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

Combinatorial and constraint-based optimization Heuristic and learning-based optimization approaches * Own data pipelines for ML systems * Data validation and quality checks * Feature engineering and ...

TheIncLab

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

Combinatorial and constraint-based optimization Heuristic and learning-based optimization approaches * Own data pipelines for ML systems * Data validation and quality checks * Feature engineering and ...

All JobsCombinatorial Optimization JobsCombinatorial Optimization Jobs in Washington, DC

Combinatorial Optimization information

See Washington, DC salary details

$47K

$161.3K

$227.7K

How much do combinatorial optimization jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for combinatorial optimization in Washington, DC is $161,350.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,200.00 and $188,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is combinatorial optimization?

Combinatorial optimization is a field in mathematics and computer science focused on finding the best solution from a finite set of possible solutions. It involves problems where you need to arrange, select, or group discrete objects according to certain rules to achieve an optimal outcome. Examples include scheduling, routing, and assignment problems. Techniques such as linear programming, branch and bound, and heuristics are often used to solve these problems. Combinatorial optimization is widely applied in logistics, operations research, computer science, and engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a combinatorial optimization specialist?

To thrive as a Combinatorial Optimization Specialist, you need a solid background in mathematics, computer science, and operations research, often supported by an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with programming languages (such as Python, C++, or Java), optimization libraries, and mathematical modeling tools like CPLEX or Gurobi is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help you devise and explain complex solutions to stakeholders. These skills are crucial for developing efficient algorithms and models that address challenging optimization problems in various industries.

How does a combinatorial optimization specialist typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

Combinatorial Optimization specialists frequently work cross-functionally, partnering with data scientists, software engineers, and business analysts to translate complex business problems into mathematical models. They help teams identify optimal solutions for scheduling, routing, resource allocation, and other operational challenges. Effective communication is crucial, as specialists must explain complex algorithms to non-technical stakeholders and integrate their solutions into broader business processes. Collaborative teamwork and iterative problem-solving are common in this role.

What is the difference between Combinatorial Optimization vs Data Analyst?

AspectCombinatorial OptimizationData Analyst
Required CredentialsMathematics, Operations Research, Computer Science degreesStatistics, Data Science, Business Analytics degrees
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, consulting firms, tech companiesCorporate offices, finance, marketing departments
Industry UsageLogistics, manufacturing, AI, supply chainFinance, marketing, healthcare, retail

While both roles involve analytical skills, Combinatorial Optimization focuses on solving complex mathematical problems to find optimal solutions, often in logistics and operations. Data Analysts interpret data to inform business decisions, working across various industries. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations.

What are popular job titles related to Combinatorial Optimization jobs in Washington, DC?

For Combinatorial Optimization jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Combinatorial Optimization jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Combinatorial Optimization jobs in Washington, DC are:

Combinatorial Optimization jobs near you

Quantum Algorithms Scientist - Optimization

Washington, DC • On-site

Jobtailor
See more jobs at Jobtailorexternal

$110 - $160/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities
  • Undertake theoretical and/or applied research and/or software development for near-term quantum computing applications, with an initial focus on quantum algorithms and software for combinatorial optimization and/or constraint satisfaction problems.
  • Help to author publications, presentations, patent applications and similar resulting from the research.
  • Work collaboratively in a small team made up of full-time staff and affiliated PhD students.
  • Work with stakeholders on collaborations applying quantum computing to optimization problems.
  • Other activities as required to support the growth and success of Phasecraft.
Requirements
  • Expertise in one or more of:
    • Quantum information and/or computation theory
    • Theory and implementation of classical algorithms for optimization or constraint satisfaction
    • Quantum algorithm design and implementation
    • Mathematical analysis of algorithms
  • Proven track record of working independently on research projects.
  • Deep expertise and an excellent publication track‑record in relevant discipline.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to disseminate research results to technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Flexibility to work across different aspects of quantum algorithms, and to work on other tasks required to support the growth and success of the company.
  • An interest in near‑term quantum computing.
Desirable Qualifications
  • PhD (or soon to receive one) in quantum information, quantum computation theory, theoretical computer science, or closely related field.
  • Coding in quantum software development environments (e.g. Cirq, QuEST, Qiskit).
  • Experience of implementing algorithms on quantum hardware.
  • Strong publication track‑record in relevant discipline.
  • Software development skills.
  • Enthusiasm for learning and novel research.
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