C.H. Robinson is seeking a Lead Operations Research Scientist with deep experience architecting and delivering optimization solutions that power largescale logistics systems. You will own critical optimization initiatives end-to-end—from defining the problem space to build and validating LP/MIP models, to working with engineering and operations teams to implement solutions in production.

This is a hands-on, highly collaborative role. You’ll set modeling standards, guide best practices, and ensure our optimization capabilities scale with the needs of the business. If you enjoy transforming complex optimization challenges into clear, actionable solutions that drive real operational impact, we’d love to talk.

This position will be based only in Minnesota, Chicago or Kansas City

Responsibilities:

Lead the end-to-end delivery of logistics optimization projects, from problem definition and requirements gathering through model development, validation, deployment, and iteration.Develop and maintain optimization models using Linear Programming (LP) and Mixed Integer Programming (MIP) to solve real-world logistics, transportation, and network design problems.Implement optimization solutions using CPLEX, including model formulation, data preparation, solver integration, parameter tuning, and performance optimization.Write clean, maintainable, production ready Python code for model building, experimentation frameworks, data processing, and service integration.Collaborate with software engineering teams to integrate optimization models into production applications, ensuring reliability, observability, and maintainability.Partner with data engineering and analytics teams to access, shape, and validate high-quality datasets using SQL and Snowflake.Translate complex mathematical and operational concepts into clear insights for non‑technical audiences through effective storytelling and data visualization (e.g., Power BI, Python visualization libraries).Document model assumptions, constraints, design decisions, and handoff artifacts so engineering teams can operationalize solutions smoothly.Establish and promote best practices for optimization model development, including versioning, reproducibility, testing patterns, and scalable architecture.Collaborate cross‑functionally with product, operations, engineering, and business stakeholders to ensure alignment on goals, timelines, and implementation impacts.Support or lead prototyping of simple web‑based tools (where helpful) to accelerate proof‑of‑concept validation and stakeholder adoption.

Required Qualifications:

5+ years of real-world experience delivering end‑to‑end optimization solutions in production environments, ideally within logistics, transportation, supply chain, or large‑scale operational systems.Demonstrated ability to independently lead and deliver complex optimization initiativesDemonstrated mastery of Linear Programming (LP) and Mixed‑Integer Programming (MIP) model formulation, constraint design, feasibility analysis, and optimization trade‑offs.Hands‑on experience using CPLEX (or equivalent e.g. Gurobi) to solve complex modeling problems.Strong programming skills in Python, with experience writing clean, modular, testable code suitable for production usage.Solid experience with SQL and cloud‑based data warehouses such as Snowflake.Experience collaborating with software engineers and integrating optimization models into production systems, including familiarity with C#–based services and APIs.Proven ability to simplify and communicate complex technical concepts to less technical stakeholders through effective data visualization and presentation.Deep experience validating assumptions, constraints, and operational inputs to ensure models align with real‑world logistics workflows and constraints.Strong documentation habits and a track record of creating clear, maintainable artifacts for engineering handoffs.Ability to work effectively in a remote environment with stakeholders across engineering, operations, and product.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with web development (e.g., React, TypeScript, or ASP.NET Core) to support lightweight proof‑of‑concept tools.Familiarity with additional OR techniques such as simulation (discrete‑event or Monte Carlo), decomposition methods, or heuristics/metaheuristics.Background in network optimization, asset repositioning, vehicle routing, facility location, supply chain modeling, or trailer pool management.Experience deploying optimization services in cloud environments (e.g., Azure, AWS) and integrating with CI/CD pipelines.Experience mentoring junior engineers or researchers and helping scale a technical capability.Values a diverse and inclusive work environment.

We will review applications for this role on an ongoing basis and encourage all interested candidates to apply at their earliest convenience.

Compensation Range

$93,400.00 - $210,000.00

The base pay range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum base pay for the position across all U.S. locations. Your individual base pay within this range is determined by work location, which takes into account geographic cost of labor, and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base pay only and do not include additional variable compensation.

Questioning if you meet the mark? Studies have shown that some individuals may be less likely to apply unless they match the job description exactly. Here at C.H. Robinson, we’re building an inclusive workplace where all employees feel they belong. If this position excites you, we welcome you to apply whether you check all the preferred qualifications or just a few. You may just be our next great fit!

Equal Opportunity

C.H. Robinson is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to a workplace and performance culture that reflects the strengths of our worldwide marketplace. We value unique experiences and diverse backgrounds of our people within our company, our business relationships, and our communities. We’re committed to providing an inclusive environment, free from harassment and discrimination, where all employees feel welcomed, valued and respected.

EOE\Disabled\Veteran  

Benefits

Your Health, Wealth and Self

Your total wellbeing is the foundation of our business, and our benefits support your financial, family and personal goals. We provide the top-tier benefits that matter to you most, including:

Three medical plans which include

Prescription drug coverage

Enhanced Fertility benefits

Flexible Spending Accounts

Health Savings Account (including employer contribution)

Dental and Vision

Basic and Supplemental Life Insurance

Short-Term and Long-Term Disability

Paid observed holidays

2 paid floating holidays for U.S. hourly employees

Flexible Time Off (FTO) offered to U.S. salaried employees — no accruals and no caps. Paid Time Off (PTO) offered to all other employees in the U.S. and Canada

Paid parental leave

Paid time off to volunteer in your community

Charitable Giving Match Program

401(k) with 6% company matching

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Plus a broad range of career development, networking, and team-building opportunities

Learn more about our benefit offerings on our BENEFITS & WELLBEING page