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Operations Research Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Danaher

Senior Director Quality Operations

Chaska, MN · On-site

... and research laboratories, and physician offices around the world. Every hour around the world ... The Senior Director, Quality Operations - Clinical Chemistry Immunoassay (CCIA) North America ...

Danaher

Senior Director Quality Operations

Chaska, MN · On-site

... and research laboratories, and physician offices around the world. Every hour around the world ... The Senior Director, Quality Operations - Clinical Chemistry Immunoassay (CCIA) North America ...

Galois, Inc.

Research Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

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 ...

Galois, Inc.

Research Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

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 ...

Three Point Solutions

R&D Technician

Elk River, MN · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Job Title: R&D Technician Client: Food Manufacturing Company Location: Elk River, MN 55330 Duration ... operations, or laboratory environments preferred #ZR

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All JobsOperations Research JobsOperations Research Jobs in Minnesota

Operations Research information

See Minnesota salary details

$37.7K

$91.9K

$147.9K

How much do operations research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 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 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 does an operations 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 develop algorithms to solve problems in logistics, supply chain, manufacturing, and other operational areas.

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 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.

Does operations research pay well?

Operations research analysts typically earn competitive salaries, with median wages above the national average for many industries. Salaries vary based on experience, education, and location, and professionals often work with data analysis, optimization tools, and statistical software. Advanced skills and certifications can lead to higher compensation.

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.
More about Operations Research jobs
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 are popular job titles related to Operations Research jobs in Minnesota? For Operations Research jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles 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:
Operations Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operations Research job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,873 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Director Operations Research - Last Mile Demand Forecasting and Capacity Management

Target Brands, Inc.

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$168K - $303K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Target rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 6,970 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 39 rated national retailers

Job description

The pay range is $168,000.00 - $303,000.00
Pay is based on several factors which vary based on position. These include labor markets and in some instances may 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 TARGET AS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS RESEARCH - LAST MILE DEMAND FORECASTING AND CAPACITY MANAGEMENT
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.
As the Director of Operations Research you'll develop optimization models and algorithms that change the game in our last mile delivery operations. Our team oversees the development of state-of-the-art mathematical techniques to help solve strategic initiatives for Target's Supply Chain! For example, we're identifying opportunities to reduce variable costs by improving the routing optimization, network configuration and scheduling. This contributes to the development, implementation and maintenance of the machine learning components as it relates to forecasting, scheduling and other initiatives that drive service, community experience and costs. This also helps create the metrics to quantify improvements to the network costs resulting from the application of these optimization models.
Working and leading the Last Mile Data ML systems that create meaningful business value across the enterprise. These systems may be powered by LLMs, classical machine learning, or deep learning models and are designed as scalable, reliable, production-grade applications where they add clear value.
As a Director of Operations Research you will:
  • Oversee the creation and development of the demand forecasting and capacity management by building the key components which allow us to evaluate the demand and manage the last mile capacity for speed and cost. We aim to develop these tools to be more efficient and precise, while also making them directly available to our business team users, allowing us to quickly respond to guest needs on the largest scale with more accuracy
  • Design, develop, deploy and maintain machine learning algorithms for our last mile business. You'll work closely with applied data scientists, operational research scientist, Product, engineering and last mile operations to continuously learn more about our business needs
  • Collaborate with Product and business partners to define product roadmaps that fit in our ecosystem and solve last mile challenges at scale
  • Build consensus and communicate with senior level leadership
  • Drive best practices with a focus on emerging technologies and author various project related documents, vision statements and roadmap
  • Develop a world-class team providing development, coaching, motivation and feedback to team members
  • Create an atmosphere of teamwork and collaboration communicating day-to-day decisions, priorities and relevant project information
  • Manage resource allocation as well as define and communicate overall vision and goals for the team
  • Enhance the way demand forecasting and capacity is conducted at Target
  • Impact our business by improving our ability to serve our Guests and by directly reducing compute cost through more efficient algorithms
  • Coordinate the analysis, troubleshooting and resolution of issues in our software

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, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics or relevant industry experience
  • 7 plus years of experience leading, developing and mentoring teams of applied data scientists and operations research scientists
  • 5 plus years of experience in building optimization models and algorithms at scale
  • Highly proficient in Python, Scala or Java programming
  • Deep understanding of data structures, design principals and algorithms
  • Ability to test and measure algorithms and models
  • Significant demonstrated expertise in optimization theory (deterministic/stochastic), dynamic programming, linear algebra, probability and statistics
  • Experience in statistical inference, machine learning and deploying machine learning models with large-scale business impact in commercial setting
  • Experience working with large event-driven distributed systems and multi-threaded applications
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to clearly tell data
    driven stories through appropriate visualizations, graphs and narratives
  • Constant learner mentality that stays on the leading edge of supply chain optimization, network planning, operations research, AI, ML, etc.

This position may be considered for a Remote or Hybrid (known internally at Target as "Flex for Your Day") work arrangement based on Target's needs. A Remote work arrangement means the team member works full-time from home or an alternate location that's not a Target location, does not have a desk at a Target location and may travel to HQ up to 4 times a year. A Hybrid/Flex for Your Day work arrangement means the team member's core role may be performed either remote or onsite at a Target location 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.
Benefits Eligibility
Please paste this url into your preferred browser to learn about benefits eligibility for this role: https://tgt.biz/BenefitsForYou_F
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.
Application deadline is : 08/20/2026

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About Target

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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

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