Model Risk Validation Specialist — AI/ML & Portfolio Models

Vanguard; Malvern (Chester County); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanguard is seeking a quantitative model risk professional to provide independent oversight of models used across the Investment Management Group. You will validate alpha/signal, portfolio construction, risk, trading, and AI/ML-enabled workflows, challenging model assumptions and documenting findings.

The role involves developing and evolving validation methodologies and collaborating with researchers, data scientists, portfolio managers, developers, and risk partners.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in a quantitative discipline (Statistics, Mathematics, CS, Engineering, Physics, Finance, Data Science) or equivalent experience.
• 3+ years in model development, quantitative research, validation, or risk management; 7+ years preferred.
• Experience in asset management, investment research, or financial services.
• Strong knowledge in equities, fixed income, portfolio construction, alpha/signal research, risk modeling, ML/AI.

Responsibilities

• Perform independent validation of investment models across major asset classes.
• Provide effective challenge of model assumptions, data, methods, controls, and monitoring frameworks.
• Produce high-quality validation reports and communicate findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Develop validation methodologies and testing approaches for consistent model oversight.
• Contribute to model risk management policies, standards, and procedures across the lifecycle.
• Advise on governance, validation expectations, and industry practices.
• Stay current on quantitative investing, ML/AI, and governance.

Skills

Python

AI/ML

Model validation

Portfolio construction

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in quantitative field

Tools

Barra

Axioma

Aladdin

Job description

Vanguard is seeking a quantitative model risk professional to provide independent oversight of models used across the Investment Management Group. You will validate alpha/signal, portfolio construction, risk, trading, and AI/ML-enabled workflows, challenging model assumptions and documenting findings.

The role involves developing and evolving validation methodologies and collaborating with researchers, data scientists, portfolio managers, developers, and risk partners.