Senior​/Principal Computer Scientist - Optimization & Operations Researcher, Hybrid

Senior/Principal Computer Scientist – Optimization & Operations Researcher, Hybrid

Sandia National Laboratories is the nation’s premier science and engineering lab for national security and technology innovation, with teams of specialists focused on cutting‑edge work in a broad array of areas.

Some of the main reasons we love our jobs:

• Challenging work with amazing impact that contributes to security, peace, and freedom worldwide
• Extraordinary co‑workers
• Some of the best tools, equipment, and research facilities in the world
• Career advancement and enrichment opportunities
• Flexible work arrangements—including 9/80, 4/10 compressed workweeks, part‑time work, and telecommuting (a mix of onsite work and working from home)
• Generous vacation, strong medical and other benefits, competitive 401(k), learning opportunities, relocation assistance and amenities aimed at creating a solid work/life balance*
• World‑changing technologies. Life‑changing careers. Learn more about Sandia at: http://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..gov

* These benefits vary by job classification.

The Discrete Math and Optimization Department advances mathematical and computational capabilities to address Sandia’s critical mission challenges. We are seeking an innovative Computer Science‑Optimization and Operations Researcher to lead R&D efforts within our diverse team.

• Designing and implementing novel optimization algorithms and advanced operations research methods.
• Applying mathematical modeling to critical domains, including power grid modeling and analysis, cybersecurity, process systems engineering, and national security logistics.
• Developing robust, scalable software tools that empower mission partners and advance the capabilities of the global scientific community.
• Collaborating across disciplines to bridge the gap between theoretical mathematics and practical, real‑world applications and solutions.
• Sharing results via high‑impact publications and presentations to funding agencies, stakeholders, and the broader research community.

Hybrid Work:
The selected applicant can work a combination of onsite and offsite work as appropriate. The selected applicant must live within a reasonable distance for commuting to the assigned work location.

$117,500 – $235,700

* Salary range is estimated, and actual salary will be determined after consideration of the selected candidate’s experience and qualifications, and application of any approved geographic salary differential.

A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline and five (5) years of directly relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of directly relevant education and engineering or scientific experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform independent research and development.

Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q clearance.

The ideal R&D S&E Computer Science candidate for Sandia National Laboratories will also possess the following:

• Graduate degree in Computer Science or a highly related field where an independent research project was a graduation requirement (e.g., thesis or dissertation).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams, and a passion to improve and expand technical skills.
• PhD in Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, Operations Research, or a closely related quantitative field, along with a Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline.
• Demonstrated experience with major optimization paradigms—Linear Programming (LP), Mixed‑Integer Programming (MIP), Stochastic Programming, and/or Nonlinear Programming (NLP), or advanced Constraint Programming.
• Proficiency in Python and experience with modern software development and engineering practices, including version control (e.g., Git Lab), testing, and collaborative coding workflows.
• A record of peer‑reviewed publications and presentations at major scientific conferences demonstrating research leadership, combined with a history of successful project delivery, implementation, and/or technology transfer.
• Proven experience as a constructive and inclusive team lead…