Staff Data Scientist

Staff Data ScientistVisa's Post Purchase organization is building AI-driven decision intelligence across dispute resolution and recovery products. We are seeking a Staff Data Scientist to lead high-impact machine learning initiatives that improve automation, recovery outcomes, and client experience at global scale.This is a Staff-level individual contributor role for someone who thrives in ambiguity, owns complex problem spaces, and drives solutions from concept through production with measurable business impact. You will work with large-scale transactions and dispute data to develop models that enhance decision quality and enable scalable, intelligent systems.Key ResponsibilitiesDefine and lead high-impact ML initiatives across dispute decisioning, merchant matching, and recovery predictionOwn end-to-end ML lifecycle, including problem framing, feature engineering, model development, deployment, and monitoringBuild and productionize scalable models using large-scale transaction and dispute datasetsPartner closely with Product, Engineering, and Data Engineering to translate business needs into data-driven solutionsDrive adoption of ML solutions through explainability, performance measurement, and stakeholder alignmentDevelop experimentation frameworks to evaluate and continuously improve model performanceDesign and implement GenAI/LLM-based solutions for explainability, workflow automation, and decision supportInfluence product strategy by identifying opportunities to improve automation, efficiency, and customer outcomesMentor junior team members and contribute to best practices across the data science organizationWork EnvironmentVisa requires employees to work in the office 3 days per week. Specific expectations will be confirmed by the Hiring Manager.QualificationsBasic Qualifications:5+ years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor's Degree or at least 2 years of work experience with an Advanced degree (e.g. Masters, MBA, JD, MD) or 0 years of work experience with a PhD, OR 8+ years of relevant work experienceExperience with digital fluency, including the ability to work with emerging technologies such as Generative AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot) to support everyday workPreferred Qualifications:6+ years of experience with a Bachelor's degree or 4+ years with an Advanced degree or up to 3 years with a PhDAdvanced degree (MS or PhD) in AI, Computer Science, Statistics, Operations Research, or a related quantitative fieldExperience applying data science or analytics solutions to solve complex business problems with measurable outcomesProven track record of commercializing analytical or ML solutions in production environmentsStrong experience managing or leading end-to-end projects across cross-functional teamsAgile experience and ability to manage evolving priorities in dynamic environmentsExperience working with large-scale datasets and building scalable modelsExperience with distributed data processing frameworks (e.g., Hadoop, Hive, Spark)Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, along with SQLExperience with version control tools such as git or GitHubHands-on experience applying machine learning and predictive modeling techniques to business problemsExperience in data science, data engineering, or analytics roles in large-scale environmentsExperience in payments, fraud, risk, disputes, fintech, or transaction-heavy domainsExperience working in global organizations with distributed stakeholdersProven ability to lead projects, influence teams, and provide technical thought leadershipWhat Sets This Role ApartOwnership of high-impact, ambiguous problem spaces across Visa's Post Purchase ecosystemDirect influence on ML-driven decision intelligence and product strategyOpportunity to build scalable systems that improve recovery outcomes, automation, and client experienceWork at the intersection of AI/ML, product, and platform at global scaleU.S. Applicants OnlyThe estimated salary range for this position is $145,300.00 to $232,700.00 USD per year, which may include potential sales incentive payments (if applicable). Salary may vary depending on job-related factors which may include knowledge, skills, experience, and location. In addition, this position may be eligible for bonus and equity. Visa has a comprehensive benefits package for which this position may be eligible that includes Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), FSA/HSA, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, and Wellness Program.Work HoursVaries upon the needs of the department.Travel RequirementsThis position requires travel 5-10% of the time.Mental/Physical RequirementsThis position will be performed in an office setting. The position will require the incumbent to sit and stand at a desk, communicate in person and by telephone, frequently operate standard office equipment, such as telephones and computers.Visa is an EEO EmployerQualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protect veteran status. Visa will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the EEOC guidelines and applicable local law.