Simulation & Optimization Analyst Intern

Gemological Institute of America • Carlsbad, CA

20h • Onsite

About The Position

This position supports the transition of our simulation and optimization model—developed through the UC San Diego Capstone project—toward operational integration within GIA’s Global Lab Operations. The analyst will collaborate closely with our technical team to refine code, integrate new data sources, and ensure that outputs and dashboards are aligned for business use.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a Master’s degree in Business Analytics, Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Engineering, or a related STEM field
• Strong academic performance with coursework in areas such as: Machine Learning / AI, Statistical Modeling, Data Engineering (SQL, ETL), Optimization, Simulation, or Operations Research
• Hands-on experience (through academic projects, internships, or research) in one or more of the following areas: Machine learning and predictive modeling, Statistical analysis and data exploration, Optimization and simulation modeling, Data visualization and dashboard development
• Demonstrated ability to: Work with large and complex datasets, Build and validate analytical models, Translate analytical outputs into business insights
• Proficiency in: Python (required), SQL (required)
• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking skills
• Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly to non-technical stakeholders
• Comfortable working in a collaborative, cross-functional environment

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in a quantitative or analytical discipline preferred
• Prior internship or project experience applying analytics in real-world or client-facing settings is preferred
• Experience working on end-to-end data science workflows (data preparation → modeling → evaluation → communication)
• Familiarity with tools such as R, Tableau, or other visualization platforms is a plus
• Knowledge of common machine learning techniques (e.g., regression, tree-based models, classification)
• Exposure to advanced topics such as: NLP / LLMs, Time-series or risk modeling, Explainability methods (e.g., SHAP), Optimization or simulation approaches
• Interest in applying data science to operational, supply chain, or lab/network optimization problems

Responsibilities

• Collaborating with GIA technical advisors and subject matter experts to refine and validate the simulation engine and data pipeline
• Enhancing and optimizing code for efficiency, reliability, and scalability
• Integrating new data sources and ensuring seamless data flow for model accuracy
• Aligning simulation outputs and dashboard formats with operational requirements and stakeholder needs
• Conducting sanity checks, troubleshooting issues, and documenting technical processes throughout the project

Benefits

• Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities, upon request, to enable them to perform the essential functions of their job, as required by law.
• GIA provides employees with a safe work environment through the provision of internal safety policies and procedures, safety awareness and training, and appropriate safety equipment as recommended and/or prescribed by governing regulatory agencies.
• Employee is required to comply with all safety policies, procedures, directives, and/or warnings.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern