Applied Scientist, Forecasting

Role Description

An Applied Scientist has a masters or PhD and is able to work with complex big data across multiple databases and sources, stitching together a cleaner version of data that is the foundation for analysis. Often times, Applied Scientists have to understand and research the intricacies of the data itself before using it to answer broader questions. More advanced coding and machine learning tools are usually required. Applied Scientists and Economists sometimes have to work together on a project, as their skill sets are complimentary. On occasion, Applied Scientists will also write research briefs, but more often than not they focus on methodology.

About the role:

• Design and evaluate statistical, econometric, and machine learning methods for forecasting problems.
• Build backtesting and validation frameworks to assess forecast accuracy, stability, and downstream forecast impact.
• Own the end‑to‑end modeling lifecycle, including scoping, feature engineering, model development, experimentation, deployment, monitoring, and model explainability.
• Translate forecasts into clear insights and recommendations for senior leadership, helping stakeholders understand drivers, uncertainty, and trade‑offs that guide Zillow’s strategy.
• Quantify uncertainty and clearly communicate model confidence, limitations, and trade-offs to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Partner cross‑functionally with finance, product, engineering, marketing, and operations to scale and improve forecasting capabilities across Zillow.
• Improve and contribute to shared forecasting tools, data pipelines, and processes used across the company.
• Collaborate with other applied scientists and data scientists to develop novel solutions to real estate and business problems.

This role has been categorized as a Remote position. “Remote” employees do not have a permanent corporate office workplace and, instead, work from a physical location of their choice, which must be identified to the Company. U.S. employees may live in any of the 50 United States, with limited exceptions.

In addition to a competitive base pay, employees in this role are eligible for incentive compensation subject to applicable laws and relevant Zillow policies. Actual amounts will vary depending on experience, performance and location.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (PhD or Masters) in Economics, Statistics, Operations Research, Data Science, Computer Science, Econometrics, Mathematics, or a related quantitative discipline or a related quantitative discipline with 3+ years of experiences in professional applied scientist roles.
• Strong experience with time-series forecasting, nowcasting, econometrics, or related quantitative modeling techniques.
• Strength in data engineering principles to help envision efficient data solutions at scale.
• Experience explaining complex models and analytical concepts to stakeholders with non-technical backgrounds using clear takeaways and practical business framing.
• Experience building applied statistical or machine learning models that support real business decisions in production settings.
• Proficient in Python and SQL for data analysis, model development, validation, and deployment.
• Comfortable working with incomplete, delayed, or noisy real-world data and designing robust estimation strategies.

Benefits

• Competitive base pay.
• Eligibility for incentive compensation subject to applicable laws and relevant Zillow policies.

Company Description

At Zillow, we’re reimagining how people move—through the real estate market and through their careers. As the most-visited real estate platform in the U.S., Zillow helps millions of customers navigate buying, selling, financing, and renting with greater ease and confidence. Our teams in India play a critical role in building and scaling the technology, products, and operations that power this experience.

• Zillow is honored to be recognized among the best workplaces in the U.S.
• Zillow was named one of FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For® in 2025.
• Included on the PEOPLE Companies That Care® 2025 list, reflecting our commitment to creating an innovative, inclusive, and engaging culture where employees are empowered to grow.
• Equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive, innovative environment.