Validation Specialist (Greater Chicago Area)

AI/ML Model Validation Specialist

Location: Des Plaines; HYBRID (3 days onsite)

Overview

This role leads independent validation and governance of models across the enterprise — spanning AI systems, machine learning, and traditional statistical models — ensuring they meet regulatory standards and internal policy. Coverage areas include credit risk, CECL, stress testing, AML, fair lending, customer risk ratings, and valuation models.

Responsibilities

• Independently validate AI, machine learning, and statistical models for conceptual soundness, data integrity, and performance, using techniques like back-testing, sensitivity analysis, and benchmarking
• Provide critical challenge and review at each stage of validation — from model design and assumptions to documentation and results
• Build risk-tiered validation testing plans and execute structured programs across data quality, model theory, and effectiveness testing
• Track and drive resolution of validation findings and escalations
• Partner with senior member of Risk Management to engage stakeholders, report to senior leadership and regulators, and confirm remediation plans adequately close out findings

Requirements

• 2–5 years of experience in data science, AI/ML modeling, or model validation
• Experience related to credit risk, liquidity, compliance (BSA/AML, fair lending), or CECL
• BS Degree required; Master's or PhD preferred