Lead AI Scientist

Candescent; Bengaluru Urban; On-site; INR 1,500,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Candescent is seeking a Lead AI Scientist to design and deploy AI-powered software solutions for financial institutions, leveraging over 4 years of experience in AI/ML and expertise in Python programming. This role is key to mentoring teams and developing innovative features such as fraud detection and chat assistants.

The ideal candidate will have experience in fintech or SaaS platforms, familiarity with GCP cloud technologies, and a commitment to driving Candescent's AI vision.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in AI, ML, Gen AI, Agentic AI, NLP.
• Excellent programming skills in Python.
• Hands-on experience in building agents and prompt engineering.
• Experience in enterprise SaaS platforms; fintech or banking is preferred.
• Familiarity with Open Banking standards and APIs.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to Candescent’s AI vision aligned with product strategy.
• Mentor AI/ML professionals with best practices.
• Develop AI solutions and custom algorithms from conception to completion.
• Partner with Product & Engineering for AI capabilities.
• Identify AI integration opportunities across products.
• Develop AI-powered features like fraud detection and chat assistants.
• Drive integration of AI tools into Candescent’s platform.

Skills

AI, ML, Gen AI

Python programming

NLP

GCP cloud

MLOps practices

API development (FastAPI)

Tools

vector databases

Job description

Candescent is the leading cloud-based digital banking solutions provider for financial institutions. We are transforming digital banking with intelligent, cloud-powered solutions that connect account opening, digital banking, and branch experiences for financial institutions. Our advanced technology and developer tools enable seamless, differentiated customer journeys that elevate trust, service, and innovation. Success here requires flexibility in a fast-paced environment, a client‑first mindset, and a commitment to delivering consistent, reliable results as part of a performance‑driven, values‑led team. With team members around the world, Candescent is an equal opportunity employer.

Candescent is the leading provider of non-core digital banking SaaS solutions, delivering account opening, digital banking, and branch experiences for banks and credit unions of all sizes. Our API‑first architecture and integrated ecosystem enable seamless customization and third‑party integration, while connected in‑person, remote, and digital channels transform customer service. With self‑service tools, marketing capabilities, and data‑driven analytics, we empower institutions to enhance branding, optimize user experience, and drive growth—supported by expert, end‑to‑end service.

Position Overview

The “Lead AI Scientist” will be responsible for designing, developing, and deploying AI‑powered software solutions for banks, credit unions & financial giants. This role requires a deep understanding of AI technologies and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams.

Requirements

• 4+ years of experience in AI, ML, Gen AI, Agentic AI, NLP, modelling & real‑time decisioning systems
• Excellent programming skills in Python, research/innovation experience, strong communication & collaboration skills
• Hands‑on experience in building agents, prompt engineering, fine‑tuning, transfer learning, transformers, deep learning, innovation & research
• Experience in enterprise SaaS platforms; fintech or banking domain, conversational AI, experience in product‑based company is strongly preferred
• Experience in GCP cloud, MLOps practices for CI/CD in AI/ML, deploying the APIs (FastAPI) & vector databases
• Familiarity with Open Banking standards, APIs, data‑sharing frameworks, embedding third‑party AI tools/APIs into core product workflows

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to Candescent’s AI vision aligned with product and platform strategy
• Mentor other Agentic AI/AI/ML professionals, providing guidance on best practices and technical expertise
• Develop AI agents, Gen AI/AI/ML solutions, custom data models and algorithms from conception to completion, ensuring quality & timelines
• Partner with Product & Engineering to develop secure, compliant, and scalable Agentic AI, Gen AI, AI & ML capabilities across our customer‑facing and internal platforms
• Identify opportunities for AI integration and expansion across various products & services
• Develop AI‑powered features across the digital banking platform, including fraud detection, smart personalization, chat and voice assistants, and intelligent automation
• Champion AI use cases in open banking—powering smarter financial decisions through data aggregation, partner integrations, and predictive analytics
• Drive integration of third‑party AI tools and services into Candescent’s platform through APIs and SDKs
• Establish and enforce best practices in model governance, quality management, bias mitigation, responsible AI & model explainability
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in Agentic AI/Gen AI/AI/ML and propose innovative solutions to enhance the company's capabilities

EEO Statement

Integrated into our shared values is Candescent’s commitment to diversity and equal employment opportunity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, age, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, military service, genetic information, or any other characteristic or conduct protected by law. Candescent is committed to being a globally inclusive company where all people are treated fairly, recognized for their individuality, promoted based on performance and encouraged to strive to reach their full potential. We believe in understanding and respecting differences among all people. Every individual at Candescent has an ongoing responsibility to respect and support a globally diverse environment.