Operations Data Scientist: Forecasting & Optimization

Socket.dev; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Zipline in California is seeking an Operations Data Scientist to develop predictive models, optimization algorithms, and analytics frameworks that steer our global network. You will work at the intersection of data science, operations research, logistics, and business strategy to improve network performance, forecast demand, optimize resource allocation, and scale operations efficiently.

This role suits you if you enjoy solving real-world problems with advanced analytics and building models that

Qualifications

• 3–7 years of experience in Data Science, Operations Research, Analytics, Applied Statistics, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong proficiency in Python.
• Advanced SQL skills.
• Experience with machine learning, statistical modeling, forecasting, and experimentation.
• Experience with optimization techniques such as linear programming, mixed‑integer optimization, simulation, or network modeling.
• Strong knowledge of statistical inference and experimental design.
• Experience building analytical solutions that influence operational decisions.
• Ability to explain complex technical concepts to business stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Develop forecasting models for operational demand, capacity, labor requirements, inventory, and network utilization.
• Build optimization models that improve resource allocation, staffing, maintenance planning, and operational efficiency.
• Design and analyze experiments to evaluate operational initiatives and process changes.
• Create predictive models that identify operational risks, bottlenecks, quality issues, and reliability trends.
• Develop simulation models to evaluate network expansion scenarios and operational strategies.
• Partner with Operations, Engineering, Product, Supply Chain, and Finance teams to guide strategic decisions.
• Build production-ready analytical tools and data products used by operational teams.
• Establish advanced operational metrics and measurement frameworks.
• Communicate complex analytical findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Support long‑term planning through scenario analysis and decision modeling.

Skills

Python

SQL

Machine learning

Forecasting

Experimentation

Optimization techniques

Statistical inference

Communication to stakeholders

Education

Master’s or PhD in Statistics / OR / Industrial Engineering / CS

Job description

Zipline in California is seeking an Operations Data Scientist to develop predictive models, optimization algorithms, and analytics frameworks that steer our global network. You will work at the intersection of data science, operations research, logistics, and business strategy to improve network performance, forecast demand, optimize resource allocation, and scale operations efficiently.

This role suits you if you enjoy solving real-world problems with advanced analytics and building models that