Principal Data Scientist

SoTalent; Tampa (FL); Hybrid; USD 217,500 - 415,750; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) plan with company match

Generous paid time off

Parental leave and adoption assistance

Continuing education and certification reimbursement

Job summary

A technology consulting firm is seeking a Principal Data Scientist to lead AI and Machine Learning innovation. This role involves developing advanced ML solutions, strategic leadership, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to drive digital transformation. Candidates should have over a decade of experience in data science and strong programming skills in Python. The position offers a hybrid work model and a competitive salary range of $217,500 – $415,750 based on experience.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in data science or predictive analytics.
• 6+ years building and validating statistical and ML models.
• Advanced programming proficiency in Python, R, or similar.

Responsibilities

• Lead AI initiatives from concept through implementation.
• Architect and implement scalable ML solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for compliance.

Skills

Leadership in AI

Solution Development

Statistical Modeling

Programming in Python

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a quantitative or technical field

Tools

Python

R

Job description

Position: Principal Data Scientist – AI & Machine Learning Innovation

Work Model: Hybrid (4 days on-site per week)

Relocation Assistance Available

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Principal Data Scientist to lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced AI and machine learning (ML) solutions across a large-scale enterprise. In this strategic role, you will work with senior executives and cross-functional teams to drive intelligent automation, predictive analytics, and personalization across business operations — from customer engagement and digital servicing to operations optimization.

You’ll guide enterprise AI initiatives from concept through implementation, ensuring alignment with technology roadmaps, regulatory standards, and business goals. This role combines technical mastery with thought leadership — offering the opportunity to influence enterprise-wide adoption of AI-driven decisioning systems and shape the future of digital transformation.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic AI Leadership: Identify, define, and prioritize large-scale opportunities for AI/ML solutions that deliver measurable business value.
• Solution Development: Architect and implement scalable ML pipelines, intelligent automation systems, and next-best-action models that enhance efficiency and customer experience.
• Collaboration & Governance: Partner with data engineering, IT architecture, and risk management teams to ensure that model development and deployment adhere to compliance and regulatory standards.
• Innovation & Research: Evaluate emerging technologies, vendor solutions, and industry trends to guide adoption of cutting-edge AI tools and infrastructure.
• Data Strategy: Design and maintain high-quality, well-governed data assets to support robust analytics and model development.
• Simplification & Standardization: Streamline model lifecycle processes by promoting automation, documentation, and reproducibility in AI development workflows.
• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: Provide technical direction to data scientists and analysts; foster a collaborative environment focused on continuous learning and innovation.
• Thought Leadership: Represent the organization in internal and external forums, sharing best practices and insights on AI applications and ethical data use.
• Communication & Influence: Translate complex analytical findings into clear, actionable insights for business and technology stakeholders at all levels.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a quantitative or technical field such as Mathematics, Computer Science, Statistics, Engineering, Economics, or related discipline.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in data science, predictive analytics, or quantitative research.
• 6+ years of experience building and validating statistical and ML models for real-world applications.
• Advanced programming proficiency in Python, R, or similar scripting languages, with an emphasis on clean, well-documented, and reproducible code.
• Expertise in supervised and unsupervised learning techniques — including regression, classification, clustering, decision trees, ensemble methods, and neural networks.
• Proven track record in end-to-end AI solution delivery — from business case definition to production deployment and post-implementation performance tracking.
• Experience mentoring teams and managing technical projects with cross-departmental visibility.
• Strong communication skills, capable of bridging complex technical concepts and business strategy for diverse audiences.

Preferred Experience

• Hands‑on experience with generative AI, natural language processing (NLP), and agent‑based automation.
• Background in applying AI to financial services, customer support optimization, or digital engagement.
• Expertise in developing intelligent decision systems and predictive servicing solutions that improve customer journeys and operational performance.
• Demonstrated success leading large‑scale technology transformations using advanced analytics.

Compensation

Salary Range: $217,500 – $415,750 (commensurate with experience, skills, and location).

Additional compensation opportunities may include annual performance incentives.

Benefits

Our employees enjoy a robust package designed to support overall well‑being, including:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) plan with company match and pension program
• Generous paid time off, holidays, and volunteer hours
• Parental leave, adoption assistance, and family planning support
• Continuing education, certification reimbursement, and professional development resources
• Employee wellness and mental health programs

Please note:

This job posting is just a preview of the full scope of the position. A comprehensive job description is shared by a member of our team.

Seniority Level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function

Analyst, Information Technology, and Engineering