Data Scientist, AI Model Validation and Governance

Manulife; Toronto; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial services provider in Toronto is seeking a bilingual Data Scientist to validate AI models and contribute to autonomous governance frameworks across Asia. The ideal candidate will have 2-4 years of experience, a postgraduate degree, and be fluent in English and Mandarin. This hybrid role offers the chance to grow technical and leadership skills in a diverse environment.

Benefits

Flexible environment

Career growth opportunities

Diversity and inclusion initiatives

Qualifications

• 2 to 4 years of experience in data science or machine learning roles.
• 1+ years of experience with Python and ML libraries.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage projects.

Responsibilities

• Independently validate AI / ML models and recommend improvements.
• Develop and maintain internal tools for model performance monitoring.
• Collaborate with regional teams to translate needs into data-driven solutions.

Skills

Fluency in English

Fluency in Mandarin

Python

Machine Learning libraries (scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch)

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

Postgraduate degree in a quantitative field

Tools

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Job description

This is a high-impact opportunity for a self-driven, bilingual data scientist to contribute to the development and validation of AI models that power business decisions across Asia. As part of the AI Model Validation and Governance (AIMVG) team, you will operate with a high degree of independence, acting as a key liaison between global governance and regional offices. Fluency in both English and Mandarin is essential to effectively collaborate with stakeholders across geographies and ensure consistent application of governance frameworks. This role supports our mission to scale AI responsibly and efficiently, while offering the chance to grow technical and leadership capabilities in a globally connected environment.

The position can be based in Singapore, Hong Kong, or Chengdu.

Position Responsibilities :

1. Independently validate AI / ML models, identify potential issues, and recommend improvements.
2. Develop and maintain internal tools for model testing, evaluation, and performance monitoring.
3. Assess model performance using appropriate metrics and validation techniques.
4. Document model assumptions, limitations, and validation results with minimal oversight.
5. Maintain model inventory and track lifecycle stages.
6. Collaborate with business and technical teams to translate needs into data-driven solutions.
7. Serve as a regional liaison between global AI governance and Asia-based teams.
8. Communicate effectively in both English and Mandarin with regional and global stakeholders.
9. Stay current with AI / ML advancements and proactively apply new knowledge.

Required Qualifications :

1. 2 to 4 years of experience in data science or machine learning roles, ideally with exposure to GenAI models.
2. 1+ years of experience with Python and ML libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
3. A postgraduate degree in a quantitative field (e.g., Computer Science, Statistics, Engineering).
4. Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage projects.
5. Fluency in both English and Mandarin (spoken and written).

Preferred Qualifications :

1. Familiarity with model validation, performance benchmarking and testing.
2. Extensive experience with programming languages such as Python, and machine learning libraries / frameworks like PyTorch, TensorFlow, Hugging Face.
3. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a passion for driving both technical excellence and ethical responsibility in AI.
4. Experience working in a multinational or cross-cultural environment.
5. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

When you join our team :

1. We’ll empower you to learn and grow the career you want.
2. We’ll recognize and support you in a flexible environment where well-being and inclusion are more than just words.
3. As part of our global team, we’ll support you in shaping the future you want to see.

About Manulife and John Hancock

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, helping people make their decisions easier and lives better. To learn more about us, visit our website.

Manulife is an Equal Opportunity Employer

At Manulife / John Hancock, we embrace our diversity. We strive to attract, develop and retain a workforce that is as diverse as the customers we serve and to foster an inclusive work environment that embraces the strength of cultures and individuals. We are committed to fair recruitment, retention, advancement and compensation, and we administer all of our practices and programs without discrimination on the basis of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, religion or religious beliefs, creed, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions), sexual orientation, genetic characteristics, veteran status, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, family status, disability, or any other ground protected by applicable law.

It is our priority to remove barriers to provide equal access to employment. A Human Resources representative will work with applicants who request a reasonable accommodation during the application process. All information shared during the accommodation request process will be stored and used in a manner that is consistent with applicable laws and Manulife / John Hancock policies. To request a reasonable accommodation in the application process, contact our HR department.

Working Arrangement

Hybrid