Optimization Scientist (1099 Contract)

Defcon

Remote (RCP HQ (McLean, VA)) Remote permanent

Posted: October 20, 2025

Job Description

ABOUT DEFCON AI

RESILIENCE IN THE FACE OF DISRUPTION. DEFCON AI is an insights company that leverages artificial intelligence, mathematical optimization, data analytics, and software engineering for resilient optimization of complex systems.
In today’s dynamically changing world, DEFCON AI’s technology aligns outcomes with operational goals, better decision making, and empowers customers to anticipate assess, and mitigate the impacts of disruptions.

About the Optimization Scientist Position

Are you passionate about driving innovation through advanced mathematical modeling? Does working in a multi-disciplinary team that addresses a diverse range of complex problems get you excited? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you as an Optimization Scientist in the Tech Development and Analytics team at DEFCON AI.

We’re currently looking for creative, smart, and humble teammates who want to join our group of world-renowned researchers as we push the boundaries applying AI to complex problems. As an Optimization Scientist, you will be at the forefront of driving the development and deployment of our latest optimization models to production. If you're a forward-thinking, technically adept individual with a passion for mathematical modeling and optimization, this role is for you.

This role is a 1099 contract opportunity, with full time hours.

Responsibilities:

• Integrate with an interdisciplinary team of experts in optimization and simulation to design, build, and optimize models that deliver high-quality, real-world insights.

• Design and implement novel heuristics and optimization models to solve complex problems in various industries, ensuring efficiency and scalability.

• Stay up to date with the latest advancements in decision science and implement best practices for our customers.

• The communication of complex technical concepts and findings to non-technical stakeholders clearly and concisely.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand business requirements and translate them into actionable solutions.

Qualifications:

• Demonstrated expertise in building mathematical optimization models for complex real-world problems

• The ability to write efficient, clean, and maintainable code in one or many programming languages with the ability and willingness to learn more

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills - with emphasis on the ability to effectively communicate highly technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences alike

• An advanced degree in Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or a related technical field

• U.S. citizenship is required

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with cloud-based SAAS products and pipelines

• Experience with Algebraic Modeling Languages and Solvers (e.g., Pyomo, GAMS, AMPL, CPLEX, Gurobi)

• A Ph.D. with a focus on Optimization

• Experience in modeling transportation and logistics

• Publications in scientific journals and/or conferences

We’re an Equal Opportunity Employer: You’ll receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability. www.

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