Lead Data Scientist, IS Supply Chain & Operations Analytics

The J.M. Smucker Company; Akron (OH); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

The J.M. Smucker Company is seeking a Lead Data Scientist for IS Supply Chain & Operations Analytics. You will wrangle data, build models, and translate insights to influence key decisions across Supply Chain and Plant Operations. Hybrid work in Orrville, OH with onsite days monthly.

Bring 7+ years of data science experience, strong Python/SQL, ML platforms, and data governance know-how. You’ll mentor teammates and lead cross-functional analytics initiatives to drive measurable improvements.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of work experience in data science or quantitative roles.
• Strong proficiency in Python, SQL and analytical modeling.
• Experience building ML solutions on modern platforms (Databricks, Azure ML, Spark, Scikit-Learn, PyTorch, TensorFlow).
• Proficient in Power BI, Tableau, or Spotfire for visualization.
• Ability to validate and communicate statistical results to business stakeholders.
• Experience with large ERP/WMS/MES data and data governance concepts.
• Proven cross-functional analytics project leadership.
• Ability to influence business decisions without direct authority.
• Strong project and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Translate complex operational challenges into analytics solutions.
• Drive strategic decisions by translating data and predictive insights into outcomes.
• Develop and influence analytics strategy aligned with business objectives.
• Partner with Supply Chain and Operations leaders to drive improvements.
• Evaluate emerging AI/ML technologies and apply to create business value.
• Mentor data science teammates and establish best practices.

Skills

Python

SQL

Analytical modeling

ML platforms

Data visualization

Data governance

Stakeholder leadership

Mentoring

Project management

Influence without authority

Cross-functional leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in STEM

Master/PhD in Data Science or related field

Tools

Databricks

Azure ML

Spark

Scikit-Learn

PyTorch

TensorFlow

Job description

Your Opportunity as the Lead Data Scientist, IS Supply Chain & Operations Analytics

The Smucker Information Services (IS) department enables technology solutions for capabilities that help our business perform, transform and grow. The Lead Data Scientist on the IS Supply Chain & Operations Analytics team will work with analytics and business partners across the Supply Chain & Plant Operations business domains to deliver actionable, data-driven insights while raising the analytical acumen of the Company. The successful candidate will be able to wrangle, investigate and develop data science models while also being able to convey complex ideas and influence key decisions. In addition, this role will be responsible for managing partner relationships and growing the capabilities of the Data Science community by participating in cross-functional Data Science knowledge sharing and mentorship.

Location: Orrville, Ohio (Close proximity to Cleveland/Akron)

Work Arrangements: Hybrid work arrangement - Onsite approximately 6-9 days per month during core weeks as determined by the Company and more as business need requires

In this role you will:

• Translate complex operational challenges into analytics solutions.
• Drive strategic business decisions by translating data, analytics, and predictive insights into measurable outcomes.
• Develop and influence the Supply Chain analytics strategy by identifying, prioritizing, and championing high-impact data science opportunities aligned with business objectives.
• Partner directly with Supply Chain and Operations leaders to drive measurable improvements.
• Evaluate emerging AI and machine learning technologies and recommend practical applications that create measurable business value.
• Apply advanced analytics, optimization, forecasting, and simulation techniques to solve manufacturing and supply chain challenges.
• Serve as a trusted advisor who helps the organization make faster, smarter, and more confident decisions.
• Communicate findings clearly, concisely, and impactfully to key business stakeholders.
• Identify new data sources to further analysis results and opportunities.
• Serve as a technical leader for advanced analytics initiatives by establishing best practices, reviewing solution approaches, and ensuring analytical rigor across projects.
• Mentor data science teammates.

What we are looking for:

Minimum Requirements:

• 7+ years of work experience as a data scientist, statistician, or quantitative analyst role with either a Bachelor's Degree in a STEM discipline or specialized training in Information Technology
• Strong proficiency in Python, SQL, and analytical modeling techniques
• Experience developing machine learning solutions using modern analytics platforms and frameworks (e.g., Databricks, Azure ML, Spark, Scikit-Learn, PyTorch, TensorFlow, or equivalent)
• Experience using visualization and business intelligence tools such as Power BI, Tableau, Spotfire, or similar platforms
• Ability to validate, interpret, and communicate statistical results to business stakeholders
• Experience working with large, complex datasets from ERP, WMS, MES, and other operational systems
• Understanding of data governance, data quality, and model performance monitoring concepts
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional analytics projects
• Experience influencing business decisions without direct authority
• Ability to prioritize multiple initiatives while balancing strategic and tactical work
• Experience mentoring analysts and data scientists
• Strong project management and stakeholder management skills

Additional skills and experience that we think would make someone successful in this role (not required):

• Master's degree or PhD in Data Science, Statistics, Operations Research, Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or related field
• Experience developing and operationalizing forecasting models
• Familiarity with generative AI, large language models, and AI-assisted decision support solutions
• Experience with MLOps concepts and model lifecycle management
• Knowledge of experimentation frameworks and causal inference techniques
• Consumer Packaged Goods industry experience

TheRight Placefor You

We are bold, kind, strive to do the right thing, we play to win, and we believe in a strong community that thrives together. Our culture is rooted in our Basic Beliefs, and we believe in supporting every employee by meeting their physical, emotional, and financial needs.

Stay connected with uson LinkedIn

We're an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, age, national origin, disability status or protected veteran status.