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Discrete Optimization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Design, implement, and optimize algorithms to solve large-scale discrete optimization problems, including scheduling, logistics, resource allocation, object placement, bin packing and inversion.

Investigate preconditioning and formulate quantization as non-convex, discrete, constrained, or second-order optimization and develop practical solutions. * Contribute to refining Neurophos ...

$150 - $200/hr

Investigate preconditioning and formulate quantization as non-convex, discrete, constrained, or second-order optimization and develop practical solutions. * Contribute to refining Neurophos ...

The core technology areas of the group are physical and data-driven (ML) modeling for optimization, large-scale continuous and discrete optimization, variability analysis, data analytics, machine ...

Investigate preconditioning and formulate quantization as non-convex, discrete, constrained, or second-order optimization and develop practical solutions. * Contribute to refining Neurophos ...

Investigate preconditioning and formulate quantization as non‑convex, discrete, constrained, or second‑order optimization and develop practical solutions. * Contribute to refining Neurophos ...

Discrete optimization (with applications in architecture search and automated prompting) Our work is both intellectually stimulating and practically in high demand. Your work will result in net-new ...

Software Engineer Intern

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Discrete optimization (with applications in architecture search and automated prompting) Our work is both intellectually stimulating and practically useful. Your work will result in net-new ...

Senior Research Scientist

Broomfield, CO

$99K - $126K/yr

Applied Mathematics: differential equations, linear algebra, numerical analysis, and continuous or discrete optimization; * Engineering: controls, estimation theory, digital signal processing, and ...

Applied Mathematics: differential equations, linear algebra, numerical analysis, and continuous or discrete optimization; * Engineering: controls, estimation theory, digital signal processing, and ...

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Discrete Optimization information

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

To thrive as a Discrete Optimization Specialist, you need a strong background in mathematics, algorithm design, and computer science, typically supported by an advanced degree in a quantitative field. Familiarity with optimization software (such as CPLEX, Gurobi, or COIN-OR), programming languages like Python or C++, and relevant certifications are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication make candidates stand out in this role. These skills enable specialists to devise efficient solutions to complex combinatorial problems, deliver actionable insights, and collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in discrete optimization roles, and how can these be addressed?

Professionals in discrete optimization often encounter challenges such as handling complex problem formulations, computational limitations, and ensuring solution scalability. These roles require balancing solution accuracy with practical time constraints, especially when dealing with large-scale datasets. Collaboration with software engineers, data scientists, and domain experts is common to translate theoretical models into actionable solutions. Staying current with the latest algorithms and software tools can help address these challenges and improve problem-solving efficiency.

What is the difference between Discrete Optimization vs Operations Research Analyst?

AspectDiscrete OptimizationOperations Research Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mathematics, Computer Science, or related fields; knowledge of algorithmsBachelor's or Master's in Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, or related fields; analytical skills
Work EnvironmentResearch, algorithm development, software modelingData analysis, process improvement, decision support
Industry UsageSupply chain, logistics, manufacturing, AILogistics, healthcare, government, manufacturing
Common Search/ComparisonFocuses on solving discrete problems using algorithmsBroader decision-making and optimization in operations

Discrete Optimization specializes in solving problems with discrete variables, often through algorithms and mathematical models. Operations Research Analysts apply a broader range of analytical methods to improve organizational processes. While they share overlapping skills, Discrete Optimization is more focused on algorithmic problem-solving, whereas Operations Research Analysts work on diverse operational challenges.

What other helpful pages are available for Discrete Optimization?

Other pages related to Discrete Optimization:

Infographic showing various Discrete Optimization job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution.

Principal Engineer, Optimization

East Hartford, CT • On-site

Prattwhitney
Engineering Professional Services • 10K+ employees

$150 - $200/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Pratt & Whitney rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 162 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted: 2026-07-14

Location: Hartford, CT (US-CT-EAST HARTFORD-RTRC L ~ 411 Silver Ln)

Role Type: Hybrid (Employees will work regularly both onsite and offsite. Ratio of time onsite will be determined in partnership with your leader. Candidates may have to attend interview steps in person.)

Citizenship/Immigration: Must be a U.S. Person (lawful permanent resident, or protected individual, etc.). For a complete definition, go here: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-22/chapter-I/subchapter-M/part-120/subpart-C/section-120.62

Security Clearance: None / Not Required

What You Will Do

Provide technical expertise in discrete optimization, deep learning for computer vision, large language models (LLMs), vision‑language models (VLMs), and state‑of‑the‑art methods for operations planning and scheduling, especially for industrial problems. Design and develop advanced optimization and machine‑learning solutions to complex decision‑making problems in aerospace and defense applications. Develop and deploy deep‑learning models to solve challenging computer‑vision problems. Explore and integrate LLMs and VLMs for multimodal tasks. Lead and support externally and internally sponsored programs, writing research proposals. Build relationships to support business relationships with industry, academia, and government agencies. Disseminate research results through reports, conference proceedings, peer‑reviewed articles, and develop intellectual property.

Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Operations Research, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.
  • Minimum 5 years of industrial experience.
  • Expertise in one or more of the following areas:
    • Strong background in mathematical programming such as discrete optimization and mixed‑integer programming.
    • Designing and training deep neural networks for vision‑related tasks.
    • Familiarity with large language models and their integration into vision‑language applications.
  • Experience with Python, MATLAB, C++, or other programming languages and collaborative software development tools (e.g., Git).
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience with practical applications in indicated fields with 10+ years of experience.
  • Record of innovation as evidenced by high‑quality journal and conference publications.
  • Ability to look at open‑ended tough problems as an opportunity to innovate and develop novel solutions.
  • Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and interpersonal skills with a track record of teamwork, adaptability, innovation, and initiative.
  • Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to focus on results in a fast‑paced, dynamic team environment.
  • Ability to work independently with limited direction in multidisciplinary environments to accomplish project goals.
Compensation & Benefits

Salary range: 107,500 USD – 204,500 USD.

Benefits include, but are not limited to:

  • Medical, dental, vision, life insurance
  • Short‑term and long‑term disability
  • 401(k) match
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Flexible work schedules
  • Employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program
  • Parental leave, paid time off, holidays
Equal Opportunity Employer

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified individuals with a disability and protected veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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About Pratt & Whitney

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Pratt & Whitney has a long history of leadership and innovation in the field of aviation propulsion. Our story begins in the 1920s and has flourished throughout the decades. We have continuously transformed and reinvented our businesses to offer superior products and services to our customers. In 1925, the Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Company was founded by Frederick B. Rentschler, pioneer of the air-cooled radial engine design which enabled unprecedented power-to-weight ratio. Its first engine, the R-1340 Wasp engine, transformed military and commercial aviation and is still in use today. In 1928, the Canadian division of the Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Company was established. In 1944, Pratt & Whitney began its gas turbine and jet propulsion initiative. The company constructed a wind tunnel, laboratory and engineering center to support our allies’ efforts in World War II. In 1945, wartime production included more than 300,000 Pratt & Whitney engines, touted by service members as extremely dependable – a legacy that continues today. From there, Pratt & Whitney continued to design and innovate more powerful, agile, and reliable engines becoming a leader in the aerospace industry. Today, Pratt & Whitney has more than 85,000 engines in service and more than 16,000 customers worldwide.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

East Hartford, CT, US