About this role

Amazon is hiring a senior-level Applied Scientist in the machine learning function based in Santa Clara, CA. The posting calls out experience with Python, Java, C, R and roughly 3+ years of relevant work. Listed education preference: a Ph.D. or equivalent. Compensation is listed at $192,200–$260,000 per year.

Role: Applied Scientist
Function: machine learning
Level: senior
Track: Individual contributor
Employment: Full-time
Location: Santa Clara, CA
Experience: 3+ years
Education: Ph.D. preferred
Department: Research Science
Posted: Jan 8, 2026

AI Summary

Develop and improve last-mile delivery through algorithmic solutions for vehicle routing and large-scale optimization problems. Requires strong background in combinatorial optimization, algorithms, and data structures with proven ability to design state-of-the-art solutions. Work closely with software engineers on network planning and fulfillment operations efficiency.

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Job description

from Amazon careers

Amazon is looking for a motivated individual with strong analytical and algorithmic skills and practical experience to join the Modeling and Optimization (MOP) Routing Science team. Your main focus will be on developing and improving our last-mile experience, with emphasis on algorithmic and analytical work. We are looking for candidates with proven ability to design, implement, and evaluate state-of-the-art solutions to large-scale optimization problems, working closely with software development engineers. The position requires strong background in combinatorial optimization, algorithms, algorithm engineering, and data structures, particularly as it applies to vehicle routing and related problems. Familiarity with Data Science and Machine Learning techniques is a plus.

You will also play an integral role in the network planning, modeling, and analysis that will improve the efficiency and cost effectiveness of global fulfillment operations. You will identify and evaluate opportunities to reduce variable costs by improving the transportation network topology, inventory placement, transportation operations and scheduling, fulfillment center processes, and the execution to operational plans. You will also improve the efficiency of capital investment by helping plan the location and deployment of fixed assets. Finally, you will help create the metrics to quantify improvements to the fulfillment costs (e.g., transportation and labor costs) resulting from the application of these optimization models and tools.

Basic Qualifications

- 3+ years of building machine learning models or developing algorithms for business application experience
- PhD in engineering, technology, computer science, machine learning, robotics, operations research, statistics, mathematics or equivalent quantitative field, or Master's degree and 10+ years of industry or academic research experience
- Knowledge of programming languages such as C/C++, Python, Java or Perl

Preferred Qualifications

- Experience with modeling tools such as R, scikit-learn, Spark MLLib, MxNet, Tensorflow, numpy, scipy etc.
- Experience in applied research

Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.

Los Angeles County applicants: Job duties for this position include: work safely and cooperatively with other employees, supervisors, and staff; adhere to standards of excellence despite stressful conditions; communicate effectively and respectfully with employees, supervisors, and staff to ensure exceptional customer service; and follow all federal, state, and local laws and Company policies. Criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship with some of the material job duties of this position. These include the duties and responsibilities listed above, as well as the abilities to adhere to company policies, exercise sound judgment, effectively manage stress and work safely and respectfully with others, exhibit trustworthiness and professionalism, and safeguard business operations and the Company’s reputation. Pursuant to the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you’re applying in isn’t listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.

The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits.

USA, CA, Santa Clara - 192,200.00 - 260,000.00 USD annually