Target
Retail
LeadOperationsResearchScientist
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“Lead Operations Research Scientist at Target. Skills: Operations Research, Applied AI, Machine Learning, Data Science. Identify large scale problem spaces. Structure ambiguous problems”
What You'll Achieve.
Drive measurable impact; Enable the best guest experience and profitable growth for Target
Industry & Context.
Problem structuring and solving skills; Tackle complex supply chain challenges; Solve niche problems in supply chain
What They're Looking For.
Must Have
8+ years of professional experience with a bachelor’s or master’s degree (5+ years for a PhD) in Operations Research, Applied AI, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, or a related field, 4+ years of experience applying advanced data science and operations research techniques, 4+ years of experience with programming in Python, PySpark and open-source data science tools, Hands on experience with AI and machine learning, including working with large language models and modern ML frameworks, problem structuring and solving skills with the ability to address business challenges creatively, Passionate about continuous learning and empirical research, written and verbal communication skills
Nice to Have
Retail and supply chain experience is a plus, Team-oriented with the ability to collaborate effectively across locations and time zones
What You'll Do.
Identify large scale problem spaces
Structure ambiguous problems
and process large data sets
Develop and apply advanced operations research techniques
Build and run complex simulations
Conduct scenario analyses
Employ optimization methods
Plan and develop project charters
Build cross-functional alignment
Remove blockers to accelerate project delivery
Communicate insights effectively
How You'll Work.
Team & Collaboration
Collaborating closely with cross-functional stakeholders; Build cross-functional alignment; Team-oriented with the ability to collaborate effectively across locations and time zones
Communication Scope
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal; Communicate insights effectively through clear and concise storytelling to influence decision-making; written and verbal communication skills
Process & Methodology
Planning and delivering team projects, Plan and develop project charters with clearly defined milestones and success metrics
Full Job Description
**About Target** As a Fortune 50 company with more than 400,000 team members worldwide, Target is an iconic brand and one of America's leading retailers. Joining Target means promoting a culture of mutual care and respect and striving to make the most meaningful and positive impact. Becoming a Target team member means joining a community that values diverse voices and lifts each other up. Here, we believe your unique perspective is important, and you'll build relationships by being authentic and respectful. **About the Team** Supply Chain Network Optimization (SCNO) is a global team and part of Integrated Operations Planning & Network steering within Global Supply Chain and Logistics. We are at the forefront of defining and enabling an efficient, reliable and best in class supply chain. This team uses a wide variety of engineering and advanced applied mathematical techniques (5Why’s, ML, AI, OR, MILP, DES,) techniques to study and solve niche problems in supply chain across the entire value chain (Planning, purchasing, transportation, multi echelon inventory, last mile and process optimization) to enable the best guest experience and profitable growth for Target. **About the Role** As a Lead Operations Research Scientist in SCNO, you will tackle complex supply chain challenges, develop a deep understanding of problem complexity, and drive cutting-edge solutions. This role requires strong experience working with large data sets, advanced programming skills, and a solid foundation in statistics, probability theory, machine learning, AI, simulations (such as Monte Carlo and discrete event simulation), and operations research. You will be expected to work effectively on high-visibility problems that come with inherent risks, roadblocks, and constraints, while collaborating closely with cross-functional stakeholders. You will also be accountable for planning and delivering team projects, ensuring alignment across teams, and driving measurable impact. Key responsibilities
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