Data Scientist - Operations Research & Decision Intelligence in Amsterdam

Job type: Regular
Location: Schiphol Oost
Hours per week: 32-40
Education level: University
Apply by: 05-11-2026

As part of the Decision Intelligence team, you play a key role in the transformation of aviation. An airline is one large puzzle in which everything is interconnected. How do experienced pilots distribute their time between flying and training colleagues, so that we can grow sustainably and our cockpit and cabin crew remains satisfied? How do we deploy aircraft engines throughout their entire lifespan so that they align with what our network needs? How do we improve the availability and airworthiness of our fleet, so that we can fly a reliable schedule? And with which metrics do we make the right trade-offs between processes and departments?

In this forward-thinking team, which delivers innovative AI products to KLM and external customers, a new optimization problem is always waiting for you.

We are looking for a Data Scientist specializing in operations research and software development, who also has practical experience with other AI techniques. In this role, you will work closely with our business partners to translate their needs into compelling, innovative products based on predictive and prescriptive analytics. Together with fellow developers from KLM and BCG, you will design and develop our latest AI products. Additionally, you will apply your knowledge of operations research to build efficient mathematical models and algorithms that deliver real value to the business.

You will work within the Operations Decision Support (ODS) department, the data and analysis heart of KLM Operations. The Decision Intelligence team combines Machine Learning, GenAI, and Optimization to make operational decisions smarter and more predictable. Part of this team's responsibility is also the unique partnership between KLM and Boston Consulting Group (BCG). The partnership is managed by a separate joint management team, which includes, among others, the COO of KLM and a Managing Director from BCG.

You will be part of a multidisciplinary team of Data Scientists, Machine Learning Engineers, and Product Consultants. The team combines talent and result-orientation with in-depth knowledge of the aviation sector and KLM's operations.

We are looking for talented professionals with a passion for Operations Research: curious builders with a strong focus on action, good communication skills, and enjoyment in working in a dynamic, international environment. You have a solid foundational knowledge of both OR and ML, and you know how to apply these in an operational context to realize impact in complex organizations.

This is demonstrated by the following:

• you have a relevant master's (or PhD) and experience building operations research-based products with measurable impact on the business, in a corporate or commercial environment;
• you program fluently in Python and enjoy delivering production-ready code;
• you can explain complex technical subjects understandably to peers, non-technical colleagues, and management, and you adapt your style to your audience;
• you are naturally curious and always keep learning;
• you have at least 2 years of relevant experience with decision support for operations and planning in complex environments. Experience in aviation or logistics is a plus;
• you are available and willing to travel abroad to work with customers and implement optimization solutions on-site;
• you speak English fluently. Speaking Dutch is a plus.

If you are selected, you can count on two application rounds in the week of November 9:

• technical interview (90 minutes, online): a challenging case and a conversation with your potential future colleagues;
• business interview (60 minutes, on location): a conversation with senior leaders from Decision Intelligence about how you approach and solve various business problems.

• initiative;
• impact;
• result-driven;
• collaboration;
• communication skills;
• problem analysis.

• A challenging role at a unique Dutch company;
• A gross salary between € 4,348.98 and € 6,212.83 gross per month;
• Plenty of room for personal development and great growth opportunities;
• An excellent pension scheme;
• 8% holiday allowance;
• An end-of-year bonus of 8.33%;
• A profit-sharing scheme, up to 20%;
• 25 vacation days and 5 extra days off;
• Significant discount on flight tickets (if you have been employed for at least 6 months);
• A sustainable transport policy, including 100% free travel to work via Public Transport (within the Netherlands);
• If your position allows it: working from home and working from abroad for up to 8 weeks (EU and Caribbean region);
• Discount on your health insurance;
• A budget for sustainable employability.

So don't wait any longer, and apply for the 'final boarding call' by 05-11-2026!
You do not need to write a motivation letter; during your online application, we will ask you some targeted questions. Your application procedure consists of two interviews and possibly an assessment, capacity test, and a security clearance.

Candidates who are positively selected for the first interview will receive an email in which they can choose a suitable time slot for the interview themselves. This keeps the process fast and clear, and gives you control over your schedule. You will hear from us within two weeks after the vacancy closes.

You can log in to your personal candidate profile at any time. Here you will find the vacancy you applied for - even after it has closed - and a clear dashboard with any other ongoing applications within KLM, including status updates. Do you have the drive to grow further in this role? Then we look forward to your application.

Did you know that according to research, women are less likely to apply than men if they do not meet all the job requirements? A shame. Because 'the perfect candidate' is, in our view, a myth. So, do you have the drive to still grow in some aspects of this role? We look forward to your application.

A reference check may be part of the application procedure.

If you want to know more about the position, please contact the hiring manager. Call or email the recruiter for questions about the application procedure. In both cases, do not forget to mention the vacancy number: #23152. At KLM, we believe in the power of diversity. Do you want to read more about this topic? View our statement.

Laurie Robben: LAURIE.ROBBEN@KLM.COM or

Lize Muller: LIZE.MULLER@KLM.COM or +31 638995198

Details from this vacancy are not to be used for marketing purposes.