Graduate Intern - Optimization (Summer 2026)

<strong>How You'll Help Us Keep Climbing (Overview & Key Responsibilities)<br><br></strong>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.<br><br>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.<br><br><strong>Primary Functions<br><br></strong><ul><li>Build complex data sets from multiple data sources, both internally and externally</li><li>Leverage emerging technologies and identify efficient and meaningful ways to disseminate and synthesize data to satisfy business’ needs</li><li>Design, develop, implement, and calibrate optimization products</li><li>Interface with business unit leaders to develop and maintain internal customer relationships</li><li>Practice safety-conscious environment resulting in employee safety and well-being<br><br></li></ul><strong>What You Need To Succeed (Minimum Qualifications)<br><br></strong><ul><li>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.</li><li>This position requires you to work from May 2026 - August 2026. You cannot actively take any courses (inclusive of online or in-person) and work as an intern at the same time.</li><li>BA/BS in Industrial Engineering, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or related field</li><li>Minimum of one year of graduate coursework completed MA/MS/PhD</li><li>Proven success in solving complex quantitative problems</li><li>Working knowledge in one or more optimization techniques (LP, MILP, QCP, MIQP, CP, and/or heuristics)</li><li>Proficiency in Python, C++ or other programming languages (Python preferred)</li><li>Strong written, oral communication, and interpersonal skills</li><li>Consistently prioritizes safety and security of self, others, and personal data. </li><li>Embraces diverse people, thinking, and styles. </li><li>Possesses a high school diploma, GED, or high school equivalency. </li><li>Is at least 18 years of age and has authorization to work in the United States.<br><br></li></ul><strong>What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)<br><br></strong><ul><li>Working knowledge in commercial optimization solvers (Gurobi, Cplex, GLPK, etc.)</li><li>Working knowledge in model tuning/calibration</li><li>Proficiency in working with relational databases and query authoring (SQL)</li><li>Fundamental Machine Learning techniques, including reinforcement learning</li><li>Working knowledge of AWS</li></ul>

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