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Operations Research Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Minneapolis, MN

$20 - $27.75/hr

The Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute's (HHRI) Restorative Neurotrauma Lab has a current ... trial operations in a timely manner to meet strict deadlines. Skilled in basic computer and ...

New

We are a community of researchers, engineers, and operations people dedicated to creating trustworthiness in critical systems in every functional area of the organization. Our unique organizational ...

We are a community of researchers, engineers, and operations people dedicated to creating trustworthiness in critical systems in every functional area of the organization. Our unique organizational ...

This role partners closely with commercial operations, research teams, and affiliated companies to support animal wellbeing, biosecurity, productivity, and continuous improvement. Animal Health ...

Veterinarian

Willmar, MN · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

This role partners closely with commercial operations, research teams, and affiliated companies to support animal wellbeing, biosecurity, productivity, and continuous improvement. Animal Health ...

Ensure operational excellence by managing internal teams and maintaining smooth project flow from start to finish. * Recommend appropriate methodologies and research approaches; prepare estimates for ...

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Showing results 1-20

Operations Research information

See Minnesota salary details

$37.7K

$91.9K

$147.9K

How much do operations research jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for operations research in Minnesota is $91,873.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,100.00 and $113,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operations Research Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operations Research Analyst, you need strong quantitative analysis, mathematical modeling, and problem-solving skills, typically supported by a degree in mathematics, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages (such as Python or R), advanced Excel, and optimization software like CPLEX or Gurobi is often required. Outstanding communication, critical thinking, and teamwork abilities help translate complex data insights into actionable recommendations for stakeholders. These skills ensure effective analysis, informed decision-making, and successful implementation of solutions in complex organizational environments.

What does an operational researcher do?

An operations researcher analyzes complex systems and processes to improve efficiency and decision-making using mathematical models, statistics, and optimization techniques. They often work with data analysis tools and may develop algorithms to solve logistical, scheduling, or resource allocation problems in various industries.

Will AI replace research analysts?

Operations research analysts use advanced analytical methods and tools, including AI and machine learning, to solve complex problems and optimize decision-making. While AI can automate routine tasks and enhance data analysis, human expertise remains essential for interpreting results, developing models, and making strategic recommendations. AI is more likely to augment rather than fully replace research analysts in the foreseeable future.

What can I do with an operations research degree?

An operations research degree prepares individuals for roles such as operations analyst, supply chain manager, or data analyst, focusing on optimizing processes and decision-making using mathematical modeling and analytical tools. Graduates often work in industries like manufacturing, logistics, finance, and consulting, utilizing skills in statistics, programming, and problem-solving. Certifications in project management or data analysis can enhance career prospects.

What is operations research?

Operations research is a discipline that uses advanced analytical methods, such as mathematical modeling, statistics, and algorithms, to help organizations solve complex problems and make better decisions. Professionals in this field analyze data and systems to optimize processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. Operations research is applied in various industries, including logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, and finance, to support strategic planning and operational improvements.

What is the difference between Operations Research vs Data Analyst?

AspectOperations ResearchData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in operations research, industrial engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in statistics, mathematics, or data science
Work EnvironmentAnalytical teams, consulting firms, manufacturing, logisticsBusiness, finance, marketing, technology sectors
Employer & Industry UsageSupply chain, transportation, manufacturing, governmentRetail, finance, healthcare, tech companies
Common Search & ComparisonOperations Research vs Data Analyst

Operations Research and Data Analysts both analyze data to improve decision-making, but Operations Research focuses on complex optimization and modeling for large systems, while Data Analysts interpret data trends for business insights. Their roles often overlap but serve different strategic purposes in organizations.

What is the work of operations research?

Operations research involves applying analytical methods and mathematical models to help organizations make better decisions, optimize processes, and improve efficiency. Professionals in this field use tools like linear programming, simulation, and data analysis to solve complex problems across industries such as logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Job in Operations Research?

The qualifications to get a job in operations research typically include a bachelor’s degree and strong technical and mathematical skills. Data science, statistics, applied math, and engineering are all good subjects to study in college. It is also useful to have a working knowledge of the specific industry in which you work, such as logistics and delivery, healthcare, or business. More complex positions often require advanced degrees. In addition to these formal qualifications, programming experience with R or other statistical software and strong analytical skills are essential.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in Operations Research, and how can they be addressed?

Operations Research professionals often encounter challenges such as working with incomplete or imperfect data, translating complex mathematical models into actionable business solutions, and communicating technical findings to non-technical stakeholders. Successfully addressing these challenges involves collaborating closely with subject matter experts, utilizing robust data validation techniques, and developing strong communication skills to clearly convey results and recommendations. Additionally, staying updated on the latest optimization tools and methodologies can help streamline problem-solving processes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operations Research jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Operations Research jobs in Minnesota are:
What job categories do people searching Operations Research jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Operations Research jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Operations Research jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Operations Research job openings:
Infographic showing various Operations Research job openings in Minnesota as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,873 per year, or $44.2 per hour.
Sr Operations Research Scientist - Supply Chain Network Optimization (Python, ML, Simulation)

Sr Operations Research Scientist - Supply Chain Network Optimization (Python, ML, Simulation)

Target

Minneapolis, MN

$98K - $176K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Target rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 6,826 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

The pay range is $98,000.00 - $176,000.00

Pay is based on several factors which vary based on position.These include labor markets and in some instancesmay include education, work experience and certifications. In addition to your pay, Target cares about and invests in you as a team member, so that you can take care of yourself and your family. Target offers eligible team members and their dependents comprehensive health benefits and programs, which may include medical, vision, dental, life insurance and more, to help you and your family take care of your whole selves.Other benefits for eligible team members include 401(k), employee discount, short term disability, long term disability, paid sick leave, paid national holidays, and paid vacation.Find competitive benefits from financial and education to well-being and beyond at https://corporate.target.com/careers/benefits.

JOIN US AS A SR OPERATION RESEARCH SCIENTIST - SUPPLY CHAIN NETWORK OPTIMIZATION

About Us:

Working at Target means helping all families discover the joy of everyday life. We bring that vision to life through our values and culture. Learn more about Target here.

About this opportunity:

Do you want to shape the future Supply Chain and Logistics strategy for a fortune 50 company and one of America's leading Retailer? Do you want to optimize Target's Global Supply Chain end to end, from sourcing to delivery of packages to guest? Are you excited at the prospect of analyzing large data sets and developing complex algorithms, simulation and optimization models to solve real world problems? Then this may be the ideal career opportunity for you!

The Supply Chain Network Optimization (SCNO) team is a global team integrated in the Operations Planning and Network steering within Global Supply Chain and Logistics. We are at the forefront of defining and enabling an efficient, reliable and best in class supply chain. This team uses a wide variety of engineering and advanced applied mathematical techniques (ML, AI, OR, MILP, DES,) techniques to study and solve niche problems in supply chain across the entire value chain (Purchasing, Transportation, Multi Echelon Inventory, Last-Mile and Process Optimization) to enable the best guest experience and profitable growth for Target.

As a Sr Operation Research Scientist in SCNO, you will be studying the complex problems in supply chain, understanding the business well and develop cutting-edge solutions. The role requires you to have strong working experience with large data sets, strong programming skills (Python/R) and foundational understanding of probability theory, machine learning and Monte Carlo simulations. Extensive knowledge of statistics, operations research and discrete event simulation is ideal as well.

As a Senior Operations Research Scientist you will:

  • Know your business and understand supply chain operational metrics and cost of end to end operations of supply chain.
  • Analyze large amounts of supply chain data at the most granular level and develop key metrics to evaluate the performance and optimization opportunities for supply chain across sales, transportation, operations and inventory.
  • Perform root cause analysis to understand key drivers related to operational performance and variance in the projected outcomes.
  • Utilize operations research methodologies (linear programming, stochastic processes, simulation) to solve complex business problems.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including software engineers, applied data scientists and business stakeholders to gather inputs assumptions and understand business process along the way.
  • Interpret results from the models and provide insights to the leadership team.
  • Develop a clear inferences with data to influence decision making with Sr leaders.

Core responsibilities of this job are described within this job description. Job duties may change at any time due to business needs.

About You:

  • PhD or MS in Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Applied Mathematics, Physics or equivalent work experience
  • 3+ years of industry experience in supply chain optimization, simulation and probability statistics or equivalent domain experience
  • Demonstrated programming experience using Python or R as well as advanced SQL querying skillset
  • Proven experience in data pipeline building in the Hadoop ecosystem (PySpark)
  • Extensive knowledge of supply chain concepts such as forecasting, inventory planning, optimization and logistics
  • Knowledge of statistics and data mining techniques/tools to analyze and derive insights from historical sales data and simulation or experiment results
  • Deep passion for problem solving, empirical research and continuous improvement
  • Excellent communication skill with the ability to clearly tell data driven stories through appropriate visualizations, graphs, and narratives
  • Self-driven and results oriented - able to meet tight timelines
  • Motivated, team player with ability to collaborate effectively across global team

This position will operate as a Hybrid/Flex for Your Day work arrangement based on Target's needs. A Hybrid/Flex for Your Day work arrangement means the team member's core role will need to be performed both onsite at the Target HQ MN location the role is assigned to and virtually, depending upon what your role, team and tasks require for that day. Work duties cannot be performed outside of the country of the primary work location, unless otherwise prescribed by Target. Click here if you are curious to learn more about Minnesota.

Benefits Eligibility

Please paste this url into your preferred browser to learn about benefits eligibility for this role: https://tgt.biz/BenefitsForYou_D

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

In compliance with state and federal laws, Target will make reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please reach out to candidate.accommodations@HRHelp.Target.com. Non-accommodation-related requests, such as application follow-ups or technical issues, will not be addressed through this channel.


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About Target

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We're here to help all families discover the joy of everyday life. Target is a general merchandise retailer with stores in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. 75% of the U.S. population lives within 10 miles of a Target store. We employ 400,000+ Our tagline is "Expect More. Pay Less." We've been using it since 1994! The Target Corporation also owns Shipt and Roundel. More to love! Target is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, its hometown since the first Target store opened in 1962 under The Dayton Company.

Industry

Retail and scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US