Lead Data Scientist

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Position Overview

Upgrade is seeking a Lead Data Scientist to join their growing data science team in the financial services sector. This role is ideal for a highly analytical and results-driven individual who will play a key role in developing and implementing predictive machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) models. The successful candidate will lead data-driven decision-making processes, manage projects from conception to deployment, and extract insights that drive product development, risk mitigation, and customer strategy.

Key Responsibilities

The primary responsibilities of the Lead Data Scientist include:

• Building and deploying ML/AI models to solve business problems in various areas such as prospect targeting, credit risk, fraud detection, pricing, verification, and loss forecasting.
• Analyzing large, structured, and unstructured datasets using SQL, Python, or similar tools.
• Evaluating existing customer data along with new third-party or alternative data to enhance the feature list, in collaboration with data engineering and analytics teams.
• Staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in data science and fintech, and actively researching new tools available for model development.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams, including risk, marketing, product, and engineering, to define data-driven strategies.

Required Skills and Experience

Upgrade requires the following qualifications for the ideal candidate:

• An Advanced Degree (MS/PhD) in Data Science, Engineering, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative discipline.
• 5-10 years of hands-on experience in a data science or analytics role, preferably within the financial services industry.
• Strong proficiency in Python (particularly libraries like Pandas, Numpy, Scikit-learn) and SQL.
• Ability to write documentation and present analyses effectively to individuals with varying levels of expertise, from technical staff to business leads.
• A detail-oriented approach with strong analytical skills.
• A proactive attitude and the capability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Nice to Have Skills

While not mandatory, the following skills and experiences are regarded as advantageous:

• Experience in credit risk modeling.
• The ability to design and maintain end-to-end Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CICD) pipelines using tools such as Kubernetes or GitHub Actions.
• Familiarity with automating model training, evaluation, and deployment workflows.
• Experience leading machine learning and data science products from conception through to development.
• Proficiency in working with cloud platforms like AWS, GCP, or Azure.
• Understanding of big data technologies like Spark and Hadoop.
• Knowledge of concepts related to financial services, such as credit scoring, portfolio risk, or customer lifetime value.

Compensation and Benefits

Upgrade offers a competitive compensation package which includes:

• A competitive salary and stock option plan.
• 100% paid coverage for medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• A comprehensive 401(k) and RRSP program.
• Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) opportunities.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Paid parental leave and health and wellness initiatives.

Company Commitment to Diversity

Upgrade prides itself on being an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. The company adheres to non-discrimination principles based on factors such as race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

Application Instructions

It is important to note that Upgrade does not accept unsolicited resumes from staffing agencies or search firms. Any resume submitted to an Upgrade employee without prior written agreement will be considered the property of Upgrade, with no obligation for the company to pay any referral or placement fee. Agencies must gain advance written approval from Upgrade’s Talent Acquisition department to submit resumes, and only when accompanied by a valid, fully executed agreement.

Conclusion

Working as a Lead Data Scientist at Upgrade presents an exciting opportunity to apply data science expertise in a dynamic and impactful financial services environment. Candidates who meet the outlined qualifications are encouraged to apply and contribute to the innovative work at Upgrade.

This job offer was originally published on jobicy.com