Lead Data Scientist - Predictive Modeling

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity

Remote stipend

Health insurance

Professional development budget

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Data Scientist to spearhead predictive modeling efforts in a remote-first environment. You will mentor a team of data scientists and drive end-to-end development of sophisticated models that unlock strategic insights.

The role requires a PhD or Master’s in a quantitative field, 7+ years in data science, and strong Python/R skills with TensorFlow/PyTorch. Cloud and big data experience are highly valued.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's in a quantitative field.
• 7+ years in data science with predictive modeling focus.
• Proven leadership of data science projects and teams, preferably remote.
• Expertise in Python or R and ML libraries (TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).
• Strong experience with big data tech and cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP).

Responsibilities

• Lead design and deployment of advanced predictive models.
• Mentor a team of data scientists and guide junior members.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to translate business needs into analytics.
• Oversee model lifecycle from data ingestion to monitoring.
• Present findings to executives and cross-functional teams.

Skills

Machine learning

Leadership

Python

Cloud experience

Education

PhD or Master's in CS/Math/Stats

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Scikit-learn

Spark / Hadoop

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Data Scientist specializing in predictive modeling to spearhead their advanced analytics initiatives. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere while driving significant innovation. You will lead a team of talented data scientists, mentor junior members, and be responsible for the end-to-end development and deployment of sophisticated predictive models that solve complex business challenges. This role demands a strong technical foundation, excellent leadership qualities, and a passion for leveraging data to create actionable insights and strategic advantages in a remote-first operational model.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced predictive models using machine learning and statistical techniques.
• Mentor and guide a team of data scientists, fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovation.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across departments to identify opportunities for data-driven solutions and translate business needs into analytical projects.
• Oversee the entire model lifecycle, from data ingestion and feature engineering to model training, validation, deployment, and monitoring.
• Present complex findings and model insights clearly and concisely to executive leadership and cross-functional teams.
• Stay at the forefront of data science advancements, researching and implementing new algorithms and methodologies.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
• 7+ years of professional experience in data science, with a significant focus on predictive modeling and machine learning.
• Proven track record of leading data science projects and teams, preferably in a remote setting.
• Expertise in programming languages such as Python or R, and proficiency with ML libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn).
• Strong experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Exceptional problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, and communication abilities.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive-level salary and substantial performance-based equity.
• Fully remote work arrangement with a generous home office stipend.
• Premium health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Significant budget for professional development, including conferences and specialized training.
• Opportunity to shape the future of data science within a forward-thinking organization.