Principal Data Scientist

Talentify; Charlotte (NC); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanguard seeks a Senior Data Scientist to lead complex analytics initiatives shaping strategic decisions across the organization. You will blend advanced statistics, machine learning, and business acumen to uncover insights and influence data-driven strategy.

You will mentor junior data scientists, partner with senior stakeholders, and drive cross-functional analytics programs. The role emphasizes rigorous methodology, data quality, and impactful recommendations.

Qualifications

• Experience in data preparation, transformation, and analysis of large, complex datasets.
• Hands-on use of statistical modeling and machine learning to solve business problems.
• Ability to translate complex analyses into actionable recommendations for senior leaders.
• Proven track record of influencing decision-making through data-driven insights.
• Experience mentoring and developing junior data scientists and analysts.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and delivery of large-scale analytics projects with focus on accuracy and reliability.
• Apply diagnostic, predictive, and prescriptive analytics to identify opportunities and drive outcomes.
• Develop innovative modeling approaches and evaluate new techniques to improve capabilities.
• Collaborate with senior leaders to frame questions and translate objectives into analytical plans.
• Assess data quality, identify gaps, and ensure sound assumptions for insights.
• Provide guidance on research design, experiment planning, and model validation.

Skills

Advanced analytics

Statistical modeling

Machine learning

Data visualization

Stakeholder communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Analytics/Mathematics/Statistics/CS

Advanced degree (MS/PhD) preferred

Job description

What You’ll Do

As a Senior Data Scientist, you will lead complex analytics initiatives that influence strategic business decisions across the organization. You'll combine advanced statistical modeling, machine learning, and business acumen to uncover insights, solve challenging problems, and help shape the future of data-driven decision making.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and delivery of large-scale analytics and data science projects, ensuring the quality, accuracy, and reliability of models, methodologies, and outputs.
• Apply advanced diagnostic, predictive, and prescriptive analytics to identify opportunities, solve business challenges, and drive measurable outcomes.
• Develop innovative modeling approaches and evaluate emerging techniques to enhance analytical capabilities and improve business performance.
• Partner with senior leaders and stakeholders to frame complex business questions, translate objectives into analytical strategies, and generate actionable recommendations.
• Assess data quality, identify gaps or inconsistencies, and establish sound assumptions to ensure insights are built on a strong foundation.
• Guide research design, experimentation, model validation, and statistical best practices across high-impact initiatives.
• Serve as a trusted analytics advisor on cross-functional teams and contribute to the advancement of the broader data science community.
• Communicate complex analytical findings in a clear, compelling manner through executive presentations, visualizations, and strategic recommendations.
• Mentor and develop junior data scientists and analysts, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.
• Support additional strategic initiatives and special projects as needed.

What We're Looking For

• 10+ years of experience in analytics, data science, statistics, machine learning, or a related quantitative field.
• Strong expertise in data preparation, transformation, and analysis of large, complex datasets.
• Hands-on experience applying statistical modeling, machine learning, and advanced analytical techniques to real-world business challenges.
• Proven ability to influence decision-making through insightful analysis and effective communication with senior stakeholders.
• Experience leading complex analytical projects and mentoring data science talent.

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Analytics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Economics, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related quantitative discipline, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) preferred.

Special Factors

Sponsorship

Vanguard is not offering visa sponsorship for this position.

About Vanguard

At Vanguard, we don't just have a mission—we're on a mission.

To work for the long-term financial wellbeing of our clients. To lead through product and services that transform our clients' lives. To learn and develop our skills as individuals and as a team. From Malvern to Melbourne, our mission drives us forward and inspires us to be our best.

How We Work

Vanguard has implemented a hybrid working model for the majority of our crew members, designed to capture the benefits of enhanced flexibility while enabling in-person learning, collaboration, and connection. We believe our mission‑driven and highly collaborative culture is a critical enabler to support long‑term client outcomes and enrich the employee experience.