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**Experienced Operations Research Developer - Remote Career Opportunity with Southwest Airlines**

Remote, USA Full-time Posted 2025-11-24

Join the Southwest Airlines Team as an Operations Research Developer and Enjoy a Flexible, Remote Work Environment

Southwest Airlines is a leading provider of friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel, and we're seeking an experienced Operations Research Developer to join our team remotely. As a key member of our Operations Suite and Development Team, you'll have the opportunity to drive innovation, streamline processes, and contribute to the success of our organization. This role offers a competitive salary, flexible work arrangements, and a dynamic work environment that supports growth and development.

About Southwest Airlines

At Southwest Airlines, we're committed to providing a positive and inclusive work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our company culture is built on the principles of respect, empathy, and teamwork, and we're dedicated to helping our employees grow and develop their skills. As a remote employee, you'll be part of a tight-knit team that collaborates and supports each other to achieve common goals.

Job Summary

We're seeking an experienced Operations Research Developer to join our team, focusing on developing and implementing optimization solutions for our Team Planning and Group Scheduling areas. As an Operations Research Developer, you'll work closely with our Operations Suite and Development Team to interpret business requirements, design solution approaches, and develop code to solve complex problems. This role requires strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop mathematical models based on business requirements and objectives
  • Design solution approaches to address complex problems and develop code to implement these solutions
  • Lead reviews of models, solution approaches, and code with the team to leverage collective expertise
  • Test applications to ensure they function as expected and solve the right problem
  • Lead reviews of solutions with business clients to ensure they meet their needs and expectations
  • Align models or solution approaches on a case-by-case basis
  • Work effectively with the team, business clients, and technology development teams
  • Provide support for developed applications, make upgrades, or recalibrate as business needs change
  • Offer guidance, direction, and mentorship to less-experienced colleagues

Requirements and Qualifications

Essential Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Operations Research, Computer Science, Applied Science, Industrial Engineering, or a related field
  • Intermediate to advanced knowledge of standard programming languages and related development tools
  • Intermediate to advanced knowledge of software development practices, concepts, and technologies
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and creatively
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in Operations Research, Computer Science, Applied Science, Industrial Engineering, or a related field
  • Experience with optimization techniques, such as linear and integer programming
  • Familiarity with programming languages, such as Python, Java, or C++
  • Experience with data analysis and visualization tools, such as Tableau or Power BI

Skills and Competencies

To succeed in this role, you'll need to demonstrate:

  • Analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and creatively
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
  • Ability to adapt to changing business needs and priorities

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

At Southwest Airlines, we're committed to helping our employees grow and develop their skills. As an Operations Research Developer, you'll have opportunities to:

  • Develop new skills and expertise in optimization techniques and programming languages
  • Collaborate with experienced professionals and contribute to the development of new solutions
  • Participate in training and development programs to enhance your skills and knowledge
  • Take on additional responsibilities and contribute to the success of our organization

Work Environment and Company Culture

As a remote employee, you'll enjoy a flexible work environment that allows you to balance your work and personal life. Our company culture is built on the principles of respect, empathy, and teamwork, and we're committed to providing a positive and inclusive work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

  • Competitive hourly rate ($24-$30/hour)
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development
  • Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Paid time off and holidays

How to Apply

If you're a motivated and experienced Operations Research Developer looking for a new challenge, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please click the "Apply Now" button to submit your application.

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