Optimization Model Engineer

This is Timefold -We’re building the future of intelligent planning—join us on the journey.

We are an AI planning optimization platform built on powerful, field-proven open-source solver technology. Simply put: we enable software builders to tackle some of the world's most complex, high-impact operational planning problems. From optimizing vehicle routing and employee scheduling to streamlining maintenance planning and field service logistics, our tech delivers massive economic value where it matters most.

We are on a relentless mission to free the world from wasteful scheduling! Founded in 2023, we represent the exciting next chapter of OptaPlanner—the legendary, field-proven open-source project that laid the foundation for everything we build today.

Today, we are a technically sharp, deeply passionate team of over 40 people. While our headquarters are nestled in the iconic Wintercircus building in Ghent, Belgium, we operate as a remote-first team with vibrant hubs across Belgium, the Czech Republic, Brazil and the US.

About the role

As an Optimization Model Engineer at Timefold, you will be instrumental in crafting advanced AI planning models and contributing to the evolution of our optimization solutions.

You will translate complex real-world business constraints into mathematical and algorithmic models. This involves defining the problem's architecture in Java. You will design systems that handle unexpected real-world disruptions.

As an Optimization Model Engineer you will be evolving the code to ensure it scales elegantly from a few dozen variables to thousands of interconnected tasks, keeping the engine lightning-fast and memory-efficient.

Key Responsibilities

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand planning challenges

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (such as Product Managers & Solutions Engineers)

• Play detective and dissect the challenges into strict constraint definitions. You are able to determine what is an absolute blocker versus what is just a strong preference, ensuring no critical real-world requirement is lost in translation.

Develop, implement, fine-tune, and maintain planning optimization models

• Architect the problem inside Timefold's code ecosystem.

• Tweak metaheuristic configurations so the model finds a perfect solution for our customers

Analyze and enhance the performance of existing optimization models

• Use profilers and benchmarks to hunt down bottlenecks.

• Analyze performance of existing models and be curious on optimizing and variables.

Build the core commercial elements of our product offering

• Shift focus from solving a single problem to building a scalable platform

• Package these complex models into out-of-the-box, cloud-native Optimization APIs that any enterprise can integrate.

• Build the surrounding infrastructure that allows Timefold's commercial engine to handle hundreds of client requests simultaneously in the cloud. This includes writing robust serialization code, designing fast data-input validation layers, and ensuring the engine can scale seamlessly.

Key Qualifications 

• Advanced Java expertise - Leveraging deep knowledge of Java to build robust, scalable, and efficient applications.

• Algorithmic problem-solving mindset - Applying strong analytical skills to tackle complex planning optimization and resource-allocation challenges.

• Experience with optimization techniques and modeling is preferred

• Continuous learning ability -Passionate about mastering new technologies, methodologies, and advanced optimization techniques.

• Strong stakeholder management - Communicating fluently in English to seamlessly partner with technical teams and stakeholders.

• Detail-oriented with a passion for crafting precise planning models

What You'll Learn

Joining Timefold provides a unique opportunity for continuous learning and growth. As a Planning Optimization Engineer, you will:

• Gain expertise in developing and fine-tuning optimization models

• Work alongside experienced professionals in the field

• Be part of a fast growing startup project with a global user base

• Tackle complex, real-world planning challenges

• Stay at the forefront of AI-driven planning optimization
  

This job is for you if

• You have a passion for solving complex planning challenges

• Learning and professional growth are essential to your career

• You are eager to contribute to resource efficiency on a global scale

• You thrive in a collaborative startup culture

• You seek a diverse, flexible job with a global perspective
  

What do we offer

Culture & Environment

At Timefold, we offer more than just a paycheck; we offer a culture where you can thrive. We promise an open and authentic workplace where you will be trusted to act, trusted to ask, and supported as you seek to grow. In return, we look for people who are ready to own and deliver impactful results.

Standard Perks

• A Full Time position in a fast growing start up environment

• A competitive salary package complemented by a range of local benefits

How we work & connect

• Flexibility : our focus is on your talents, not your location. Choose the working arrangement that suits you best, whether it is remote, hybrid or on-site

• Our dedication to creating an inclusive environment, where diversity is celebrated and everyone is treated with fairness and respect <3

• Regular team building activities and gatherings to enhance (international) team spirit and cooperation (this requires a willingness to travel once or twice a year)