Lead Data Scientist

Lead Data Scientist

We are looking for a Lead Data Scientist to own complex quantitative and risk modeling projects from problem definition through implementation. This is a highly visible role where your models will directly influence multi-million-dollar business opportunities and be presented to executive stakeholders.

What You’ll Do

• Build, evaluate, and validate quantitative and risk models.
• Work with large financial and credit datasets.
• Develop models using Python, SQL, and gradient boosting techniques.
• Translate model outputs into measurable financial and dollar impact.
• Own projects end-to-end, from defining the problem through implementation.
• Present technical findings and recommendations to senior and executive stakeholders.
• Defend models and methodology during external audits.
• Help identify and quantify significant financial opportunities.
• Provide technical guidance and support to other team members.

What We’re Looking For

• 8+ years of data science/modeling experience
• Strong Python and SQL skills.
• Strong data modeling experience.
• Strong mathematical and statistical foundation.
• Experience with gradient boosting models.
• Proven ability to independently lead projects end-to-end.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Comfortable explaining technical work and model results to executives.
• Experience working through external audits and defending models.
• Finance/risk modeling experience within a regulated industry is required.

Required Domain Experience

You should have experience in areas such as:

• Credit risk modeling
• Financial or loss modeling
• Probability of Default (PD) modeling
• Credit scorecards
• Payment behavior modeling
• Credit attribute modeling
• Mortgage, credit card, banking, or credit bureau data
• Risk modeling within a regulated financial institution

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Economics, Computer Science, Quantitative Engineering, or another highly quantitative field.
• Master’s degree in Data Science or a related quantitative discipline preferred.

The Ideal Candidate

This role is suited to a senior-level Data Scientist who can operate independently, drive complex projects, and communicate confidently with both technical and executive audiences.

Location: Tempe, AZ preferred; Dallas or Atlanta also considered

Working Model: Hybrid, 4 days per week (Monday–Thursday)

Compensation: $140,000–$150,000 base

Visa: U.S. Citizen or Green Card holder only