Ph.D Intern - Optimization (Fall 2026)

United States Georgia Atlanta Operations Anlys & Performance 24-Mar-2026 Ref 31700

How youll help us Keep Climbing: Overview & Key Responsibilities

The Operations Decision Science team at Delta Air Lines is seeking a graduate operations research intern to develop data-driven solutions aimed at continually providing decision support while improving airline efficiency and performance.

An ideal candidate has foundational technical knowledge of operations research, optimization models, simulation models, and core data science/data engineering concepts. The candidate should have excellent organizational and communication skills and feel comfortable in a fast-paced environment. This role will support the delivery of decision support applications by leveraging combinatorics algorithms and optimization.

Primary Functions:

• Build complex data sets from multiple data sources, both internally and externally.
• Leverage emerging technologies and identify efficient and meaningful ways to disseminate and synthesize data to satisfy business needs.
• Design, develop, implement, and calibrate optimization products.
• Interface with business unit leaders to develop and maintain internal customer relationships.
• Practice a safety-conscious environment resulting in employee safety and well-being.

What you need to succeed: Minimum Qualifications

• Working as an intern does not guarantee a full-time opportunity upon graduation. This position is intended to provide you with educational and professional work experience to prepare you for the workforce.
• This position requires you to work from August 2026 - December 2026. You cannot actively take any courses, inclusive of online or in-person, and work as an intern at the same time.
• BABS in Industrial Engineering, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or related field.
• Minimum of one year of doctorate level coursework completed (PhD).
• Proven success in solving complex quantitative problems.
• Working knowledge in one or more optimization techniques: LP, MILP, QCP, MIQP, CP, and/or heuristics.
• Proficiency in Python, C, or other programming languages (Python preferred).
• Strong written, oral communication and interpersonal skills.
• Consistently prioritizes safety and security of self, others, and personal data.
• Embraces diverse people, thinking, and styles.
• Possesses a high school diploma, GED, or high school equivalency.
• Is at least 18 years of age and has authorization to work in the United States.

What will give you a competitive edge: Preferred Qualifications

• Working knowledge in commercial optimization solvers (Gurobi, Cplex, GLPK, etc.).
• Working knowledge in model tuning/calibration.
• Proficiency in working with relational databases and query authoring (SQL).
• Fundamental Machine Learning techniques, including reinforcement learning.
• Working knowledge of AWS.

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