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Optimization Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

They are seeking an experienced AI Optimization Engineer to apply advanced optimization and AI techniques to improve decision systems within their Applied AI Center of Excellence. Responsibilities ...

We are looking for an experienced and innovative leader to fill the position of AI Optimization Engineer within our Applied AI Center of Excellence group based in Houston, TX. Essential Job ...

We are looking for an experienced and innovative leaderto fill the position of AI Optimization Engineer within ourApplied AI Center of Excellence group based in Houston, TX. Essential Job ...

Conduct ongoing engineering and optimization of all market center service routes to improve efficiency and labor trends. This role will provide baseline performance data as well as projected outcome ...

Services Principal Consultant

Houston, TX · On-site

$124.20 - $207/hr

Principal Consultant - Process Simulation and Optimization Engineer Location: Houston, Employment Type: full-time Salary Range: $124,200.00 - $207,000.00 This role seeks a highly motivated Process ...

Houston Employment Type: full-time The job Seeking a highly motivated Process Simulation and Optimization Engineer to execute and deliver advanced modeling and optimization solutions for refining ...

Services Principal Consultant

Houston, TX · On-site

$124K - $207K/yr

Houston Employment Type: full-time The job Seeking a highly motivated Process Simulation and Optimization Engineer to execute and deliver advanced modeling and optimization solutions for refining ...

Strong programming skills in Python or similar languages, with experience using solvers like Gurobi/CPLEX. * Understanding of cloud-based architecture solutions for large-scale optimization. * Strong ...

Strong programming skills in Python or similar languages, with experience using solvers like Gurobi/CPLEX. * Understanding of cloud-based architecture solutions for large-scale optimization. * Strong ...

Leak Detection Engineer

The Woodlands, TX

$77K - $98K/yr

WES is seeking a Leak Detection Engineer to join the Process Optimization Team. The Leak Detection Engineer will be responsible for the management, implementation, and continuous improvement of the ...

Leak Detection Engineer

The Woodlands, TX · On-site

$77K - $98K/yr

WES is seeking a Leak Detection Engineer to join the Process Optimization Team. The Leak Detection Engineer will be responsible for the management, implementation, and continuous improvement of the ...

Principal Data Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$106K - $127K/yr

Collaborate closely with business analysts, data scientists, machine learning engineers, and optimization engineers, providing the data infrastructure and tools needed for complex analytical models ...

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Optimization Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$38

$56

$78

How much do optimization engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for optimization engineer in Houston, TX is $56.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.30 and $70.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Optimization Engineer vs Data Analyst?

AspectOptimization EngineerData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Mathematics, or related field; often certifications in optimization or data analysisBachelor's in Statistics, Mathematics, or related field; certifications in data analysis tools
Work EnvironmentEngineering teams, manufacturing, logistics, or software developmentBusiness, finance, marketing, or healthcare sectors
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, tech, logistics, supply chainFinance, marketing, healthcare, consulting

Optimization Engineers focus on improving processes and systems through mathematical modeling and algorithms, often working in technical environments. Data Analysts interpret data to support business decisions, typically working with data visualization and reporting tools. While both roles analyze data, Optimization Engineers emphasize process optimization, whereas Data Analysts focus on insights and reporting.

What are Optimization Engineers?

Optimization Engineers are professionals who analyze, design, and implement solutions to improve the efficiency, performance, and cost-effectiveness of systems, processes, or products. They use mathematical models, data analysis, and simulation tools to identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to achieve optimal results. These engineers work across various industries, including manufacturing, technology, energy, and logistics, to help organizations maximize output while minimizing resources and waste.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optimization Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optimization Engineer, you need a solid background in mathematics, data analysis, and engineering principles, often supported by a degree in engineering, mathematics, or a related field. Familiarity with optimization software (such as Gurobi, CPLEX, or MATLAB), programming languages like Python, and data modeling tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing efficient solutions, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and driving continuous improvement in complex systems.

What does an optimization engineer do?

An optimization engineer analyzes and improves processes, systems, or algorithms to increase efficiency, reduce costs, or enhance performance. They often use mathematical modeling, data analysis, and tools like MATLAB or Python to develop solutions and may work in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, or software development.

What engineers make 200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, petroleum, aerospace, and data engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and relevant certifications. Compensation can vary based on industry, location, and company size, with roles involving specialized expertise, leadership, or management responsibilities typically commanding higher salaries.

How does an Optimization Engineer typically collaborate with other departments to implement solutions?

Optimization Engineers often work closely with cross-functional teams such as production, operations, and data analysis. They collaborate by gathering input on current processes, identifying bottlenecks, and proposing data-driven improvements. Regular meetings and clear communication are crucial to ensure that proposed optimizations are practical and align with business goals. By involving stakeholders from various departments, Optimization Engineers help facilitate smoother implementation and ensure that solutions are sustainable and well-integrated.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, or systems architecture can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in senior or executive roles at large technology companies. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience, and compensation may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options.

What Is Optimization Engineering?

The job duties of an optimization engineer focus on taking an existing design and improving making it stronger, fast, more efficient, or more durable. Career qualifications for an optimization engineer include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering and years of field experience through internships or similar positions. Strong analytical and research skills are important for this job, as well as a strong background in advanced mathematics.

How much do optimization engineers make?

Optimization engineers typically earn a median salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in data analysis, programming, and modeling can earn higher compensation, often exceeding $150,000.
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Optimization Engineer jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Optimization Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Optimization Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,480 per year, or $57 per hour.
AI Optimization Engineer

AI Optimization Engineer

Oxy

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Oxy is a company that produces, markets, and transports oil and natural gas, focusing on lower-carbon technologies. They are seeking an experienced AI Optimization Engineer to apply advanced optimization and AI techniques to improve decision systems within their Applied AI Center of Excellence.
Responsibilities:
• Apply advanced continuous and combinatorial optimization, control, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and algorithmic techniques to build, maintain, and improve on decision systems/processes.
• Collaborate with subject matter experts to select the relevant sources of information and formulate the right questions and problems.
• Identify what data is available and relevant, leveraging and creating data input and output pipelines and application programming interfaces (APIs).
• Provide feasible and real-life practical solutions, and demonstrate the scientific qualities: clarity, accuracy, precision, relevance, depth, breadth, logic, significance, and fairness.
• Present and depict the rationale of findings in easy-to-understand terms for the business.
• Present back results that contradict common belief, if needed.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Master’s degree in Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of optimization methods, including dynamic, parametric, and non-parametric approaches
• Experience in dynamic and/or static system modeling.
• Experience designing and implementing advanced control techniques such as Model Predictive Control (MPC), and adaptive control.
• Knowledgeable in system identification and state estimation methods such as Kalman filtering and Moving Horizon Estimation (MHE)
• Knowledgeable in machine learning concepts and their application to modeling, optimization, or control problems
• Proficient in Python
• Experience with Git version control
• Possession of excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Effective team player who takes an active role in team responsibilities.
• Strong time management skills.
• Ability to work with minimum of supervision.
Preferred:
• Knowledge of the oil and gas industry.
• Familiarity with AWS or similar cloud platforms.
• Familiarity with Docker for containerization and Kubernetes for orchestration.
Company:
Oxy is an international energy company that produces, markets and transports oil and natural gas to maximize value and provide resources fundamental to life. Founded in 1920, the company is headquartered in Houston, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

Oxy logo

About Oxy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

For 100 years, Oxy has developed extensive assets, infrastructure, expertise and technology to fuel progress and improve lives around the world. Now we’re leveraging these resources to help solve the planet’s most pressing environmental challenges. We want to be part of the solution, so we're taking bold steps to innovate new technologies for a low-carbon future. Oxy produces energy and essential products to sustain and improve life on our planet. Our experienced teams, located in the United States, Middle East, Africa and Latin America, are committed to safe and efficient operations and products, and to reducing our carbon footprint and helping others do the same.

Industry

Oil and gas extraction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US