Analytics Specialists (ASs) support Opera's efforts to develop and deploy state-of-the-art, data-driven predictive models to solve business problems. Successful ASs will have a strong academic background in a quantitative discipline and a good track record of applying advanced classes of models to difficult problems. They will be creative problem-solvers, thinking beyond their own disciplines to find innovative new modeling approaches. They will also be energized by applying analytics to real-world business situations and producing measureable improvements for clients. Finally, they will be comfortable with ambiguity and truly enjoy the challenge of creating new solutions for difficult Big Data problems.

They are an integral part of any Opera engagement, part of a global project team. ASs may work on a specific portion of the analytic challenge, or, as their capabilities allow, extend their focus more broadly within a client assignment. Typically, they are managed by a Junior Analytics Manager.

ASs have significant latitude to try new ideas and approaches. The environment in which they work is collegial, open, and intellectually challenging, with limited hierarchy. At Opera, we believe that good ideas come from everywhere, and we expect ASs to be a rich source of them.

ASs typically work in one of Opera's Analytic Centers of Excellence (San Diego, Shanghai, and New Delhi). If they are based in Shanghai or New Delhi, some project work may involve extensive blocks of travel (1 month or more) to the US or Europe.

Who should apply?
Opera draws on a global talent pool to find the "best and the brightest" from around the world. Candidates should have an excellent academic record from a competitive academic institution. In addition, we require:

• Bachelor's degree (BS or equivalent) in a quantitative field (i.e., Statistics, Engineering, Machine Learning, Physics, Econometrics, etc.)
• Software skills: Experience in Perl, C, Python, C++, or Java
• Track record (can be academic only) in applying advanced analytics to Big Data problems

We also prefer, but do not require, that candidates have a strong UNIX background, as well as user experience with statistics packages/SAS.

Senior Analytics Specialist (SASs) work with teams to design, develop, and deploy state-of-the-art, data-driven predictive models to solve business problems. The most effective SASs can immediately participate in Opera projects requiring advanced analytic expertise, because they will have had experience with a wide range of techniques in machine learning and statistical modeling, including the latest multivariate and nonlinear techniques.

SASs are an integral part of any Opera engagement, part of a global project team. They may work on a specific portion of the analytic challenge, or, as their capabilities allow, extend their focus more broadly within a client assignment. Typically, they are managed by a senior analytical staff member.

SASs are responsible for the quality of analytical projects or a single class of models within an engagement. They experiment with alternative approaches and guide more junior staff (e.g., Analytics Specialists) in execution. SASs understand the technology and can explain it to all internal audiences, and they also assist in the preparation of material for external audiences. In terms of project management, they estimate work effort, assign tasks, and communicate milestones and results. SASs work closely with global analytics teams in Opera's offices, including the three Analytic Centers of Excellence (San Diego, Shanghai, and New Delhi). If they are based in Shanghai or New Delhi, some project work may involve extensive blocks of travel (1 month or more) to the US or Europe. They must be skilled at coordinating the efforts of the global analytics teams, as well as those of software developers, internal Opera project teams, and client teams.

Who should apply?
Opera is actively seeking to rapidly expand its analytics and technology teams, and is looking for the best and the brightest, globally, to do so. Preferred candidates will have the following characteristics:

• Advanced degree (MS/ PhD) in a quantitative field (i.e., Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Machine Learning, Physics, Econometrics, etc.)
• Software skills: Experience in Perl, C, Python, C++, or Java.

In addition, the strongest candidates will have a demonstrated understanding of analytical process and approaches for at least one class of applications, strong UNIX background, and experience with statistics packages/SAS.

Junior Analytics Managers (JAMs) work with teams to design, develop and deploy state-of-the-art, data-driven predictive models to solve business problems. The most effective JAMs can immediately participate in Opera projects requiring advanced analytic expertise, because they will have had experience with a wide range of techniques in machine learning and statistical modeling, including the latest multivariate and nonlinear techniques.

Analytics are a critical component of Opera's value proposition, and JAMs play a critical role in delivering solutions to Opera's clients. Over the course of their time with Opera, JAMs typically work on a wide range of client problems in a variety of disciplines; they are an integral part of the team in consulting engagements. They are also often assigned to new product development and research initiatives.

JAMs are responsible for the quality of analytical projects or a single class of models within an engagement. They experiment with alternative approaches and guide more junior staff (e.g., Analytics Specialists) in execution. JAMs understand the technology and can explain it to all internal audiences, and they also assist in the preparation of material for external audiences. In terms of project management, they estimate work effort, assign tasks, and communicate milestones and results. JAMs typically work under the guidance of a Senior Analytics Manager.

JAMs work closely with global analytics teams in Opera's offices, including the three Analytic Centers of Excellence (San Diego, Shanghai, and New Delhi). They must be skilled at coordinating the efforts of these teams, as well as those of software developers, internal Opera project teams, and client teams. Some travel to client locations or Opera offices is generally required.

Who should apply?
Opera is actively seeking to rapidly expand its analytics and technology teams, and is looking for "the best and the brightest" globally to do so. Preferred candidates for JAMs will have the following characteristics:

• Advanced degree (MS/ PhD) in a quantitative field (i.e., Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Machine Learning, Physics, Econometrics, etc.)
• Software skills: Experience in Perl, C, Python, C++, or Java.

In addition, the strongest candidates will have a demonstrated understanding of analytical process and approaches for at least one class of applications, strong UNIX background, and experience with statistics packages/SAS.

Analytics Managers (AMs) design, develop, and deploy state-of-the-art, data-driven predictive models to solve business problems using the latest and most appropriate technologies in machine learning, statistical modeling and Operations Research. They deliver value in the marketplace by supporting teams serving clients; spearheading the analytics/technology component of new product development; and/or leading key research initiatives.

AMs' responsibilities include development of analytic solutions; pattern identification and feature extraction, variable selection; experimentation with algorithms, performance analysis and preparation for communication with internal and external clients, and training and development of junior analytics staff.

Work will require effective coordination of global analytics and software development resources, clients, and business consultants. Some travel may be required to client locations.

Who should apply?
The role of an AM is a critical one at Opera; we only consider candidates with strong academic and work credentials and a track record of innovative and successful applied analytics projects. Essential requirements include:

• Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in a quantitative field (i.e., Statistics, Engineering, Machine Learning, Physics, Econometrics, etc.).
• Software skills: Experience in Perl, C, Python, C++, or Java.
• Deep knowledge of analytic methodologies (regression, signal processing, optimization, neural networks, etc.)
• Track record of analytical product development, innovation, or research (patents or publications)
• Industry Experience (eCommerce, Financial Services, Retail, Airlines, Defense, etc.)

In addition, we prefer that candidates have experience in managing global analytics teams in multiple locations, a strong UNIX background, and experience with statistics packages/SAS.

Senior Analytics Managers (SAMs) design, develop, and deploy state-of-the-art, data-driven predictive models to solve business problems. Successful SAMs have deep knowledge of the latest and most appropriate methodologies in machine learning, statistical modeling, and operations research. They are highly innovative in their problem-solving approaches, drawing on many disciplines and analytic techniques. In addition, they have a strong pragmatic streak and are energized by applying theoretical approaches to real-world problems and producing measureable business improvements.

Advanced analytics are critical to Opera's value proposition, and SAMs play a critical role in delivering this value. SAMs will participate in the full range of Opera's activities, including taking the lead on successfully completing analytics deliverables in consulting engagements; working on new product development; and finding new applications for analytics via research and experimentation. They are deeply engaged in most projects from start to finish, providing senior leadership and expertise.

SAMs are responsible for conceiving of approaches to create powerful analytic solutions; training and developing junior analytics staff; working with teams to analyze Big Data datasets to determine suitability for model building; ensuring the clean up and filtering of Big Data reserves; leading the efforts to find patterns, select variables, and extract features in large datasets; experimenting with algorithms; completing performance analyses; and communicating to and working with internal Opera's teams and Opera's clients. SAMs typically are responsible for managing analytics efforts in several projects at once.

SAMs' work requires effective coordination of global analytics teams in Opera's three Analytic Centers of Excellence (San Diego, Shanghai, and New Delhi), software development teams, client teams, and Opera consultants. Some travel will be required to client locations and Opera's offices.

Who should apply?
The role of an SAM is a critical one at Opera: we only consider candidates with strong academic and work credentials and a track record of innovative and successful applied analytics projects. Essential requirements include:

• Advanced degree (MS/ PhD) in a quantitative field (i.e., Statistics, Engineering, Machine Learning, Physics, Econometrics, etc.).
• Software skills: Experience in Perl, C, Python, C++, or Java.
• Deep knowledge of analytic methodologies (regression, signal processing, optimization, neural networks, etc.)
• Track record of analytical product development, innovation, or research (patents or publications)
• Industry Experience (eCommerce, Financial Services, Retail, Airlines, Defense, etc.)

In addition, we prefer that candidates have experience in managing global analytics teams in multiple locations, a strong UNIX background, and experience with statistics packages/SAS.

Business Analysts (BAs) are integral members of teams, focusing on key areas of analysis that make major contributions toward solving our clients' business problems. BAs work collaboratively with other team members to identify key insights and profit-growth opportunities, and then implement and execute their ideas, capturing tangible improvement. They assist in developing presentations and storylines, helping craft sections of documents, and presenting findings to client groups. BAs will also occasionally work collaboratively with client teams on site. We wish to give analysts the broadest possible exposure to different projects, clients, and service areas, so that we can together discover your passions and strengths. We provide training both on the job and in the classroom, and do not set artificial limits on what business analysts are "allowed" to do — if you are ready for more responsibilities, we gladly provide greater challenges.

Who should apply?
Business Analysts are typically recent college graduates. It is acceptable to have no prior business background and only limited work experience (internships, summer jobs, etc.).

Associates are primarily engaged in conducting complex analyses critical to a project. In addition, they work collaboratively with Business Analysts, managing BAs' work and ensuring the team functions effectively. Associates are challenged to think the problem through, generating and robustly defending ideas. Opera is nonhierarchical, and the roles of Associates are fluid. At Opera, Associates often play far more senior roles than is typical in other organizations. For instance, they usually have significant interaction with client peers, conducting interviews without direct supervision or working independently on site with client team members. While we challenge our Associates to think and act independently, we also provide plenty of support and coaching. Whether an Associate wishes to make this a long-term career, or simply wants to have a wide range of experiences before making a further career or educational choice, Opera is committed to providing a rich and challenging experience.

Who should apply?
Associates should have 2+ years of industry experience, or be graduate students with relevant work experience. Comfort with quantitative approaches, as well as curiosity and superior problem-solving skills, are essential. People from many different backgrounds are hired for this generalist position.

Opera's Senior Associates (SAs) have significant interaction with senior clients and client team members, playing a wide range of critical project roles:

• Assisting on proposal development
• Formulating key analytic approaches
• Leading small project teams
• Taking responsibility for large portions of analytic activities
• Managing data capture and analysis, and identifying key insights
• Developing core recommendations and structuring storylines and presentations
• Working collaboratively with Opera and client team members to capture improvements and implement positive changes.

They also are expected to contribute to Opera's growth. For instance, many of our SAs have developed new service areas and helped open new offices.

Who should apply?
We seek candidates with a proven record of academic and professional excellence. We prefer candidates with a graduate degree, particularly an MBA. We require several years of business experience and a strong track record of performance (strategic consulting or relevant internal consulting experience is preferred) and clear ability to work under time and pressure constraints. In addition, successful candidates will thrive in a fluid, growing, and evolving environment.

Engagement Managers (EMs) play varied and challenging roles at Opera. They are the key point of contact for the client and are ultimately responsible for project delivery. They lead teams in structuring and completing assignments and are responsible for managing day-to-day interactions with clients. They mentor and coach junior team members and play a pivotal role in ensuring good morale, smooth team relationships, and productive working environments. Engagement Managers often choose to become more closely affiliated with an industry and functional practice — typically, because they find areas that excite them. This allows them to expand their knowledge while continuing to build their team and client management skills. EMs' responsibilities go beyond simply managing project work; they also contribute to managing the office. This may include recruiting, leading training efforts for Business Analysts and Associates, and initiating other firm and practice development activities. They also are charged with developing client relationships, which may include creating prospect presentations, drafting new proposals, and expanding existing relationships.

Who should apply?
Engagement Managers typically have begun at the Associate/Senior Associate level and are promoted from within. However, some exceptional professionals with demonstrated success within an industry or in consulting may be invited to join Opera at the EM level.

Senior Engagement Managers (SEMs) gradually take on broader project management responsibilities, eventually directing a number of client engagements. They also help link Opera's project work to the firm's business and strategic vision. Opera's SEMs ensure that their teams' work on client projects consistently reflects clients' goals and agendas. Seasoned SEMs work on business development in service areas — for example, expanding Opera's business capabilities and generating ideas for new proposals. They often opt to focus on one specific service area.

Who should apply?
Senior Engagement Managers are proven professionals with established track records as both outstanding consultants and successful project leaders. We typically promote SEMs from within, but exceptional individuals may be recruited externally.

Software Engineers at Opera design and code software in the areas of data processing and analytics. They collaborate with the analytics teams to convert equations and prototypes into scalable, efficient systems. Software Engineers also transform traditional programs to run on a distributed network of machines, often using the Hadoop framework. They work in a fluid environment applying agile software development principles.

Who should apply?
Essential role requirements for Software Engineers include:

• BS or MS in Computer Science, Math, Engineering, or other quantitative discipline.
• Understanding of the following computer science concepts:
  • Object-oriented programming and design
  • Efficient algorithm development
  • Multi-threading
  • Multi-tier architecture
• Hands-on experience with Java or another OO language
• Hands-on experience with development in either Windows or Unix systems

Senior Software Engineers at Opera are responsible for the development of enterprise analytics software supporting, mining, and analyzing huge volumes of data. They possess the ability to work well within a team structure and to deliver on specific tasks assigned. Senior Software Engineers have the keenness to explore requirements and work proactively toward identifying gaps.

Who should apply?
Essential role requirements for Senior Software Engineers include:

• BS or MS in Computer Science (preferred), Math, Engineering, or other quantitative discipline
• Should have accumulated technical depth in one or more specific areas (server processing, databases, user interfaces, etc.)
• May have breadth of experience across multiple development areas
• Should have experience independently designing, building, and testing new software components from specifications
• Should be familiar with different Software Development Lifecycles
• May have experience mentoring or leading a junior engineer

Lead Software Engineers at Opera are responsible for the development of enterprise analytics software supporting, mining and analyzing huge volumes of data. They possess the ability to work well within a team structure and to deliver on specific tasks assigned. Senior Software Engineers have the keenness to explore requirements and work proactively toward identifying gaps.

Who should apply?
Essential role requirements for Senior Software Engineers include:

• BS, MS, or PhD in Computer Science, Math, Engineering, or other quantitative discipline
• Should be considered a near "expert" in one or more technical areas
• Considerable breadth of experience to be able to understand and support full system development
• Experience hiring, mentoring and directing a small (2-4 person) development team
• Experience designing, building, testing, integrating and supporting larger software modules and applications

Engineering Mangers direct the activities of the software systems development function for software enhancements and new products. They select, develop, and evaluate personnel to ensure the efficient operation of the function. Engineering Managers are responsible for leading a team of developers in new product development, component selection, and maintenance activities. They provide guidance and mentor subordinates on a daily or weekly basis. They are responsible for managing department/work group costs and schedules to meet business needs. Engineering Managers proactively seek ways to make the department better and more productive using metrics to gauge progress. They collaborate with other functions to support overall group business requirements and implement business and function strategy. They regularly interact with senior management or executive levels on matters concerning several functional areas, divisions, and/or customers.

Who should apply?
Engineering Managers should have a minimum of 5-8 years development experience with proven success building software products from start to finish and a minimum of 3 years experience managing development teams.

Other essential skills include:

• Minimum of a bachelor's degree (BS or equivalent) with a major in CS, CIS, MIS, Mathematics, Engineering, or related field or equivalent experience
• Experience with full system design and implementation, including iteration through at least 3 major releases
• Experience working closely with business leaders to flesh out business requirements and provide trade-offs between functionality and resources
• Experience managing the development of multiple concurrent projects

Senior Engineering Mangers direct the activities of the software systems development function for software enhancements and new products. They select, develop, and evaluate personnel to ensure the efficient operation of the function. Senior Engineering Managers are responsible for leading a team of developers in new product development, component selection, and maintenance activities. They provide guidance and mentor subordinates on a daily or weekly basis.

Senior Engineering Managers proactively seek ways to make the department better and more productive using metrics to gauge progress. They collaborate with other functions to support overall group business requirements and implement business and function strategy. They regularly interact with senior management or executive levels on matters concerning several functional areas, divisions, and/or customers. Senior Engineering Managers are responsible for managing the activities of two or more sections or departments through subordinate managers who exercise full supervision in terms of costs, methods, and staffing.

Who should apply?
Senior Engineering Managers should have a minimum of 8-10 years development experience with proven success building software products from start to finish and a minimum of 5 years experience managing development teams.

Other essential skills include:

• Minimum of a bachelor's degree (BS or equivalent) with a major in CS, CIS, MIS, Mathematics, Engineering, or related field or equivalent experience
• Experience with full system design and implementation, including iteration through at least 3 major releases
• Experience working closely with business leaders to flesh out business requirements and provide trade-offs between functionality and resources
• Experience managing the development of multiple concurrent projects