Staff Optimization Scientist – Task Allocation

At Walmart Advanced Systems & Robotics, we're building the infrastructure that will power the next generation of retail experiences. We're the team behind Alphabot®, a new technology that's changing the way America shops. Our automated pickup and delivery systems use a combination of robotics and software to efficiently handle large volumes of online orders, streamlining operations for managers and enhancing the customer experience. We're passionate about robotics, retail, and creating solutions that impact millions of customers daily.

The Staff Optimization Scientist will play a crucial role in optimizing the performance and efficiency of our multi-agent robotic system. This role focuses on developing novel resource allocation/scheduling algorithms in collaboration with engineering, control, and operations teams. This role requires a strong technical background in operations research, e.g., quadratic programming, conic optimization, mixed-integer programming, sequential convex programming, optimization algorithms for embedded platforms and real-time systems, combinatorial optimization, and queuing theory, as well as the flexibility and adaptability to learn and work in a dynamic, team-centric environment. The optimization scientist is expected to propose, model, and solve scheduling, resource allocation, and task assignment problems.

We value collaboration, open-mindedness, and a passion for innovation. The Staff Optimization Scientist will collaborate closely with the control systems teams and other cross-functional teams, including Data Science, Software Engineering, and Product Management, to enhance emulation accuracy, develop data-driven strategies, and contribute to the design and development of optimization-based algorithms using metrics to optimize system operations.

What we're looking for:

• PhD from an internationally recognized institution in Computer Science, Operations Research, Mathematics, Statistics, Industrial Engineering or related fields with focus on optimization,
• Scientific mindset and the ability to invent, with excellent creative problem-solving skills,
• Strong programming skills in at least some Java, C/C++, Python, MATLAB, or Julia,
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills, and
• A strong publication record in top-tier conferences and journals.

Preferred, but not required:

• Experience in multi-agent mobile robotic systems.
• Experience in optimizing automated fulfillment operations,
• Extensive knowledge of numerical optimization algorithms for convex programming, nonlinear programming, and possibly mixed-integer programming,
• Expertise in designing algorithms that enable real-time decision-making for robotic systems, and
• Experience in developing robust optimization algorithms for multi-agent control systems.

We offer great benefits for a happier mind, body, and wallet:

• Competitive pay and performance-based bonus awards
• Competitive 401(k) matching program, stock purchase plans, and equity opportunities
• Comprehensive health, vision, and insurance plans with options for dependent coverage
• Unlimited PTO for salaried employees, covering vacation, holidays, and personal days
• Up to 12 weeks of fully paid maternity/paternity leave
• Special Walmart discounts for in-store and online purchases
• Complimentary daily lunches, beverages, and snacks
• Other benefits include short-term and long-term disability, Military Leave Pay, adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, and more

Walmart, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By Choice. We believe we are best equipped to help our associates, customers, and the communities we serve live better when we really know them. That means understanding, respecting, and valuing diversity – unique styles, experiences, identities, abilities, ideas and opinions – while being inclusive of all people.