Principal Data Scientist (Credit Risk for Small Business and Commercial)

Job-ID: 32763Category: Data ScientistLocation: Vienna, VA, United StatesWorkplace: HybridSchedule: Full time, Regular HoursPosted: 2026-10-15Closes: 2026-10-19Targeted Salary Range: $128,500 - $164,700 annuallyProvide strategic data science, machine learning, and advanced analytics leadership to inform mission-critical decisions across the organization, with a primary focus on small business lending. Leverage small business credit, application, financial statement, cash flow, transaction, and performance data to shape underwriting, risk segmentation, pricing, portfolio management, and the end-to-end member lending experience. Partner with senior leaders and cross-functional stakeholders to identify high-impact opportunities, influence product and credit strategies, and translate complex data into scalable analytical solutions, actionable insights, and measurable business outcomes. Advance the organization’s analytical capabilities through descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive modeling and the responsible application of leading data science techniques. Operate as a trusted advisor and advanced practitioner, leading complex initiatives with broad independent judgment and developing analytical talent across the team. Qualifications6+ years of experience with requisite competenciesComplete knowledge and full understanding of specializationStatistics, machine learning , data mining, data auditing, aggregation, reconciliation, and visualizationProgramming, data modeling, simulation, and advanced mathematics SQL, R, Python, Hadoop, SAS, SPSS, Scala, AWSModel lifecycle executionTechnical writingData storytelling and technical presentation skillsResearch SkillsInterpersonal SkillsAdvanced knowledge of procedures, instructions and validation techniquesModel DevelopmentCommunicationCritical ThinkingCollaborate and Build RelationshipsInitiative with sound judgementTechnical (Big Data Analysis, Coding, Project Management, Technical Writing, etc.)Independent JudgmentProblem Solving (Identifies the constraints and risks)Bachelor's Degree in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Computers Science, Engineering, or degrees in similar quantitative fieldsDesired Qualifications Master’s or doctoral degree in data science, statistics, mathematics, computer science, engineering, or a related quantitative disciplineDemonstrated success applying data science, machine learning, or advanced analytics to small business banking, commercial lending, or small business lending strategiesDeep experience designing and implementing analytical solutions across the lending lifecycle, including originations, underwriting, credit decisioning, pricing, account management, portfolio monitoring, and collectionsStrong command of small business credit risk, cash flow underwriting, commercial credit data, financial statements, transaction data, and alternative data sourcesProven ability to influence senior leaders and partner across lending product, credit risk, underwriting, operations, and model risk to translate analytical insights into strategic business decisions Additional InformationHours:Monday - Friday, 8:00AM - 4:30PMLocation: 820 Follin Lane, Vienna, VA 22180ResponsibilitiesDesign, develop, and evaluate large and complex predictive models and advanced algorithms Test hypotheses/models, analyze, and interpret resultsDevelop actionable insights and recommendationsDevelop and code complex software programs, algorithms, and automated processesUse evaluation, judgment, and interpretation to select right course of actionWork on problems of diverse scope where analysis of information requires evaluation of identifiable factorsProduce innovative solutions driven by exploratory data analysis from complex and high-dimensional datasetsTransform data into charts, tables, or format that aids effective decision makingUtilize effective written and verbal communication to document analyses and present findings analyses to a diverse audience of stakeholders Develop and maintain strong working relationships with team members, subject matter experts, and leadersLead moderate to large projects and initiativesModel best practices and ethical AIWorks with senior management on complex issuesAssist with the development and enhancement practices, procedures, and instructionsServe as technical resource for other team membersMentor lower levelsAbout the companyNavy Federal provides much more than a job. We provide a meaningful career experience, including a culture that is energized, engaged and committed; and fierce appreciation for our teams, who are rewarded with highly competitive pay and generous benefits and perks.Our approach to careers is simple yet powerful: Make our mission your passion.FORTUNE100 Best Companies to Work For 2025Yello and WayUp Top 100 Internship ProgramsComputerworld Best Places to Work in ITNewsweek Most Loved Workplaces2025 PEOPLE Companies That CareNewsweek Most Trustworthy Companies in AmericaMilitary Times 2025 Best for Vets EmployersBest Companies for Latinos to Work for 2025Forbes 2025 America’s Best Large EmployersForbes 2025 America's Best Employers for New GradsForbes 2025 America's Best Employers for Tech Workers2025 RippleMatch Campus Forward Award Winner for Overall Excellence Military.com Top Military Spouse Employers 2025 2025 Handshake Early Talent AwardFrom Fortune. 2025 Fortune Media IP Limited. All rights reserved. Used under license. Fortune and Fortune Media IP Limited are not affiliated with, and do not endorse products or services of, Navy Federal Credit Union.Equal Employment Opportunity: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, sex, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity or any other basis protected by applicable law.Accommodations: If you need accommodation or assistance for a qualifying condition to complete the online application (or during any stage of the hiring process), you can contact Navy Federal's Medical Accommodations team at View email address on click.appcast.io or by calling View phone number on click.appcast.io. This team cannot provide any information on job postings or application status.Disclaimers: Navy Federal reserves the right to fill this role at a higher/lower grade level based on business need. An assessment may be required to compete for this position. Job postings are subject to close early or extend out longer than the anticipated closing date at the hiring team’s discretion based on qualified applicant volume. Navy Federal Credit Union assesses market data to establish salary ranges that enable us to remain competitive. You are paid within the salary range, based on your experience, location and market position. For additional details regarding compensation and benefits, review the Benefits page of the Navy Federal Career Site.Protect Yourself from Job Scams: Navy Federal Credit Union jobs are posted on our career site, jobs.navyfederal.org and reputable job boards (e.g., LinkedIn, Indeed). We do not post jobs on social media marketplaces, messaging apps or unverified websites. We will never ask candidates for payment, bank details or personal financial information during the hiring process.Bank Secrecy Act: Remains cognizant of and adheres to Navy Federal policies and procedures, and regulations pertaining to the Bank Secrecy Act.