Principal Data Scientist

Our client seeks a Principal Data Scientist to scale Data Science and AI capabilities for end-to-end payment optimization. The role will collaborate with ML engineers and product partners to design and deploy real-time models and intelligent decision engines, drive strategy and roadmaps, lead cross-functional initiatives, and mentor senior data science talent. The position balances strategic leadership with hands-on contribution across architecture, design reviews, code reviews, and select implementation to deliver production-grade ML solutions.

This is a contract to hire opportunity. Applicants must be willing and able to work on a w2 basis and convert to FTE following contract duration. For our w2 consultants, we offer a great benefits package that includes Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits, 401k with company matching, and life insurance.

Rate: $85.00 to $95.00/hr. w2

• Define technical vision and strategy for data-driven product initiatives focused on payment optimization, aligned to business goals.
• Develop scalable and reusable capabilities for real-time ML models including classification, ranking, optimization, rapid experimentation, and continuous monitoring.
• Oversee and contribute to conceptualization, development, deployment, operation, validation, and maintenance of ML models and update systems.
• Establish and enforce best practices for ML modeling while evaluating and adopting modern tools, frameworks, and infrastructure.
• Foster a culture of innovation, experimentation, and collaboration while mentoring an elite team of data scientists.
• Partner with product, engineering, data, and compliance teams to integrate ML into products and communicate complex concepts to varied audiences.
• Collaborate with Data Science leaders to establish an operating model for ML R&D that optimizes end-to-end delivery of business value.

• Bachelor's or master's degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering, or related field. PhD preferred.
• 7+ years in ML research or engineering with 5+ years building large-scale, real-time ML systems in production, including hands-on experience.
• Expertise in machine learning, statistical modeling, and data analysis with strong experience across the ML lifecycle and experimentation.
• Proficiency in Python (Pandas, NumPy, scikit-learn) and strong SQL experience. NoSQL or graph databases are a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to lead solution design and execution, translating complex business requirements into actionable technology solutions.
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to influence and collaborate across technical and business audiences, including executives.
• Bonus: Experience in payments, fintech, or financial services. Knowledge of payment systems such as authorization lifecycle, tokenization, fraud and risk, and real-time payments. Experience with cloud platforms including AWS, GCP, Snowflake, Databricks, or Vertex AI. Agile development experience. Background in large companies, mature ML teams, or regulated industries.

• Bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. xhyhwjd PhD preferred.