Sr. Data Scientist

This client is a mission-driven FinTech startup democratizing credit with behavioral data. Their platform uses alternative signals like purchase behavior, mobile activity, and financial metadata to extend fair credit access to thin- and no-file users. With funding from FinTech-focused VCs and former Plaid/Credit Karma leadership on board, they are entering a high-growth phase and expanding their data science team.

Job Description

We're seeking a Senior Data Scientist who thrives in high-autonomy environments and wants to build ML systems that power life-changing financial decisions. You'll work on risk modeling, fraud detection, and explainable AI to make lending more equitable and intelligent.

Responsibilities

• Build and productionize machine learning models for credit risk and fraud detection
• Design real-time scoring systems using behavioral and transactional data
• Conduct fairness analysis and build explainable AI tooling
• Lead model validation, A/B testing, and drift monitoring
• Collaborate with data engineers and product managers on model-driven features
• Contribute to data governance and regulatory compliance efforts

Required Skills

• 7+ years of experience in data science, ideally in FinTech or financial risk modeling
• Proficient in Python, SQL, and modeling tools like XGBoost, LightGBM, sklearn
• Experience with real-time modeling, data pipelines, and stream processing
• Knowledge of responsible AI practices and interpretability (SHAP, LIME)
• Strong statistical background and experimental design skills

Preferred Skills

• Experience with alternative credit models or underwriting
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks (FCRA, ECOA)
• Exposure to tools like H2O.ai, Feature Store integrations, or custom explainers
• 100% remote with async-friendly culture