This paper presents a two-dimensional procedure for minimizing dynamic loading and maximizing time-averaged isentropic efficiency in multi-stage compressors. The procedure arises from the combination of an evolutionary algorithm and a CFD code in which a sliding mesh technique and a time-dependent approach are implemented enabling the study of unsteady rotor stator interaction. The method is then applied to a two-stage compressor cascade (rotor-stator-rotor-stator). The results concerning the optimal set of geometrical parameters considered for optimization (axial distances between successive cascades, circumferential clocking between stators and between rotors) are finally presented and discussed.