Senior Data Scientist

Salary: $143,320 - 273,930 per year Requirements:

• We require a bachelors degree in mathematics, computer science, statistics, economics, finance, actuarial science, engineering, or another quantitative field, or equivalent experience in lieu of a degree.
• We need 6+ years of experience in predictive analytics or data analysis, or an advanced degree plus 4 years of relevant experience.
• We require 4+ years of experience training and validating statistical, physical, machine learning, and other advanced analytics models.
• We need 4+ years of experience using a dynamic scripting language such as Python or R to perform statistical analysis and build or score AI/ML models.
• We expect strong coding practices, including writing clear, well-documented, and easy-to-follow code.
• We need solid experience querying and preparing data from structured and unstructured sources using SQL, HQL, NoSQL, or similar tools.
• We require hands-on experience working with structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data, including numeric files, JSON, XML, text, images, and related formats.
• We expect proven ability to perform ad hoc analysis using descriptive, diagnostic, and inferential statistics.
• We need the ability to understand and explain regulatory expectations tied to different modeling efforts.
• We require advanced knowledge of classical supervised methods such as regression, discriminant analysis, support vector machines, decision trees, and forest-based models.
• We require advanced knowledge of unsupervised methods such as k-means, hierarchical clustering, nearest-neighbor approaches, and DBSCAN.
• We need experience mentoring junior technical staff and helping guide model-building work.
• We require the ability to present analytical findings to non-technical partners with clear business recommendations.
• Experience in AI, ML, or data science with a focus on product development, strategy, or modeling is highly valued.
• Background in technology companies, IT, or IT-adjacent roles is a plus.
• Familiarity with financial services is strongly preferred.

• We gather, interpret, and transform structured and unstructured data to support advanced analytical solutions.
• We design scalable, automated approaches using machine learning, simulation, and optimization to generate business insight and value.
• We choose the right modeling methods and technologies based on data constraints, use case, and business priorities.
• We develop and deploy models within our Model Development Control and Model Risk Management governance frameworks.
• We prepare technical documentation to support knowledge retention, risk management, and technical review.
• We evaluate business needs and recommend analytical and modeling initiatives that can create measurable value.
• We partner with business and analytics leaders to prioritize research and modeling efforts.
• We build and maintain reusable, production-ready algorithms and code libraries that support transparent model development.
• We translate complex business questions into analytical problems, execute the analysis or modeling, and explain the results in practical terms to non-technical colleagues.
• We manage milestones, risks, dependencies, and project blockers.
• We escalate issues that may affect delivery or implementation success.
• We establish best practices for working with Data Engineering and IT teams to release production-ready analytical assets.
• We stay current on emerging methods, tools, and technologies in the AI and data science space.
• We continuously look for learning opportunities and new methodologies to strengthen our capabilities.
• We mentor junior data scientists in modeling, analytics, and computer science tasks.
• We contribute to internal communities that evolve our data science culture and technology landscape.
• We identify, measure, monitor, and control risks in line with our compliance and risk management requirements.
• We explore and evaluate innovative AI, including generative AI, to improve productivity, automate workflows, reduce costs, and open new revenue opportunities.
• We assess external AI tools and technologies through research, industry events, professional networks, and academic connections.

• AI
• Support
• JSON
• Machine Learning
• NoSQL
• Python
• SQL
• Security
• XML
• AWS
• Cloud

More:

We are USAA, an organization dedicated to helping our members achieve financial security through competitive products, trusted advice, and outstanding service, with a strong commitment to the military community and their families. In this role, you will help lead the strategic use of AI and generative AI across USAA Federal Savings Bank, shaping practical solutions that improve employee productivity and member experience while considering ethics and innovation. This is a remote-eligible position within the continental U.S. with occasional travel; candidates living within 60 miles of one of our offices should expect to work on-site four days per week. Relocation assistance is available. We offer best-in-class benefits that support physical, financial, and emotional well-being, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plans, life insurance, parental benefits, adoption assistance, paid time off, paid holidays, volunteer time, wellness programs, and career development support. We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage qualified candidates to apply promptly, as the role remains open until filled.

last updated 38 week of 2026