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Operations Research Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Operations Research Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$37.1K

$87.6K

$139.1K

How much do operations research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for operations research engineer in Chicago, IL is $87,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,600.00 and $96,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an operations research engineer do?

An Operations Research Engineer applies mathematical modeling, statistical analysis, and optimization techniques to solve complex business and engineering problems. They use data-driven decision-making to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance system performance in industries such as logistics, manufacturing, finance, and transportation. By leveraging algorithms, simulations, and predictive analytics, they help organizations make informed decisions. Their work often involves programming, data analysis, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to implement practical solutions.

What does a typical day look like for an operations research engineer?

A typical day for an Operations Research Engineer involves identifying operational challenges, gathering and analyzing data, developing mathematical models, and simulating scenarios to propose improvements. You will often collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—including data scientists, engineers, and business managers—to understand requirements and implement optimal solutions. Expect to spend time both independently conducting research and attending meetings to present your findings and receive feedback. The role provides a good balance of technical work, problem-solving, and teamwork, making each day dynamic and intellectually engaging.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operations research engineer?

To excel as an Operations Research Engineer, you need a solid grounding in mathematics, statistics, optimization, and analytical problem-solving, typically supported by a relevant engineering or quantitative degree. Proficiency with tools such as MATLAB, Python, R, CPLEX, or simulation software, as well as familiarity with data analysis platforms, is commonly required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability are vital soft skills for presenting findings and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams. Mastery of these abilities is crucial to developing effective solutions that improve operational efficiency in complex business environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operations Research Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Operations Research Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Operations Research Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Operations Research Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Operations Research Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,592 per year, or $42.1 per hour.

Senior Data Scientist - Operations Research

United Airlines

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


United Airlines rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 342 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 26 rated airlines


Job description

Job Summary:
United Airlines is a leading airline company focused on providing exceptional travel experiences. The Senior Data Scientist in Operations Research will provide mathematical modeling and analysis to support strategic planning decisions and drive improvements in business operations through data-driven solutions.
Responsibilities:
• Provides mathematical modeling and analysis services to support critical financial, operational, and/or strategic planning decisions and engages in supporting project teams in value added activities that generate practical solutions to complex business problems, explores new business alternatives, and drives improvement in business decisions
• Develops the approach and methods to define and solve management problems through quantitative analysis and analytical models using operations research, machine learning, and structured programming languages
• Identifies, researches, or solves large complex problems using big data and operations research and machine learning principles
• Leverages understanding of the business process to identify and implement operations research solutions that will result in significant bottom-line contributions
• Builds and develops operations research/optimization mathematical model applications, and provides client support leveraging operations research knowledge
• Participates in model design, prototype, and model development for several efforts that occur simultaneously, and interfaces with product delivery groups
• Raises concerns when scope of analysis may not align with time available and can choose an appropriate scope of analysis to conduct balancing ROI to time available
• Designs analytic plan/develop hypotheses to test; understands limitations of analysis (what it can and cannot be used for)
• Anticipates working team questions to data and approach
• Identifies solution quality risks and on-time risks
• Understands the business value, process, and expectations before focusing on choice of a technical solution
• Understands the intuition behind the numbers (i.e. does it make sense?)
• Provides on-going analytical services to client organizations
• Communicates results to management and clients
• Contributes deck content and builds the story for the deck with guidance to summarize findings
• Develops and delivers presentations aligned with Ai standards
• Speaks in a manner appropriate for working team and their level +1
• Keeps informed about the latest analytical methods and research in the operations research and analytics fields
Qualifications:
Required:
• Advanced degree (PhD or ABD) in Operations Research or other related quantitative discipline involving quantitative analysis and application of advanced operations research principles
• Coursework or work experience with mathematical programming techniques
• Coursework or work experience in model prototyping through use of optimization toolkit(s) including CPLEX, AMPL, or OPL
• Coursework or work experience with C, C++, Java, R, Python, or other structured programming language
• Good business, technical, verbal/written communication, presentation and sales skills. Adaptability to changing business environment
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to interact with clients
• Proficient with MS Office
• Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualification
• Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position
Preferred:
• Minor in computer science and/or formal advanced computer science coursework preferred
• 2+ years of professional experience in analytical field
• 1+ years of airline business experience
• 1+ years designing and programming/coding data structures for large-scale computer models
• Experience with Julia programming language
• Knowledge of United/industry data sources
• Structured programming for large-scale computer models
• Demonstrated ability to create business value
Company:
United Airlines is an aviation company that provides information on reservations, bookings, and travel services online. Founded in 1926, the company is headquartered in Chicago, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

What United Airlines employees say

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About United Airlines

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

United Airlines is embarking on an exciting journey to become the best airline in aviation history. Our purpose, "Connecting People, Uniting the World," extends beyond transportation, emphasizing our commitment to uplift and create opportunities in the places we serve. With a global presence and diverse workforce, we value inclusivity and are dedicated to hiring tens of thousands of individuals across various roles. Our comprehensive benefits package, including perks like space available travel, parental leave, and 401k, aims to support your well-being and growth.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1926

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