Sr Data Scientist - Remote

Optum; Minnetonka (MN); Hybrid; USD 92,000 - 164,000; Full time

Job summary

Optum seeks a data science professional to analyze data, build predictive models, and deliver actionable insights across health care operations. You will work with large-scale datasets, ML frameworks, and modern analytics tools to solve business problems and inform strategy.

The role supports remote work from anywhere in the U.S. with a MN preference; in-office presence may be required in the Minneapolis area at times. Strong collaboration and storytelling are essential.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in Data Science, Machine Learning, AI, or Advanced Analytics.
• Experience with large-scale datasets
• Experience with ML frameworks such as Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, XGBoost, or equivalent
• Knowledge of data visualization and analytical storytelling
• Proficiency in Python, SQL, R, or similar analytical languages
• Proven solid foundation in statistics, predictive modeling, and machine learning
• Proven solid problem-solving and communication skills

Responsibilities

• Analyze structured and unstructured datasets to identify trends, opportunities, and business insights.
• Develop and deploy predictive, classification, clustering, and optimization models.
• Apply machine learning, statistical analysis, and AI techniques to solve business problems.
• Identify hidden patterns and relationships within complex datasets.
• Support experimentation, hypothesis testing, and model validation activities.
• Partner with business, operations, and technology teams to define analytical requirements and solutions.
• Translate business challenges into data science use cases and analytical frameworks.
• Generate insights and recommendations that improve operational performance and business outcomes.
• Develop reusable analytical assets, models, and reporting frameworks.
• Utilize AI/ML techniques including predictive analytics, anomaly detection, recommendation systems, NLP, and generative AI where appropriate.
• Monitor and evaluate model performance and recommend enhancements.
• Present analytical findings and business insights to stakeholders.
• Contribute to data science best practices and continuous improvement initiatives

Skills

Data Science

Big data

ML frameworks

Data viz

Python/SQL/R

Statistics

Communication

Problem solving

Tools

Scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

XGBoost

Job description

Optum Tech is a global leader in health care innovation. Our teams develop cutting-edge solutions that help people live healthier lives and help make the health system work better for everyone. From advanced data analytics and AI to cybersecurity, we use innovative approaches to solve some of health care's most complex challenges. Your contributions here have the potential to change lives. Ready to build the next breakthrough? Join us to start

Caring. Connecting. Growing together.

You’ll enjoy the flexibility to work remotely from anywhere within the U.S. as you take on some tough challenges. MN preferred.

For all hires in the Minneapolis or Washington, D.C. area, you will be required to work in the office a minimum of four days per week.

Primary Responsibilities

• Analyze structured and unstructured datasets to identify trends, opportunities, and business insights
• Develop and deploy predictive, classification, clustering, and optimization models
• Apply machine learning, statistical analysis, and AI techniques to solve business problems
• Identify hidden patterns and relationships within complex datasets
• Support experimentation, hypothesis testing, and model validation activities
• Partner with business, operations, and technology teams to define analytical requirements and solutions
• Translate business challenges into data science use cases and analytical frameworks
• Generate insights and recommendations that improve operational performance and business outcomes
• Develop reusable analytical assets, models, and reporting frameworks
• Utilize AI/ML techniques including predictive analytics, anomaly detection, recommendation systems, NLP, and generative AI where appropriate
• Monitor and evaluate model performance and recommend enhancements
• Present analytical findings and business insights to stakeholders
• Contribute to data science best practices and continuous improvement initiatives

Required Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in Data Science, Machine Learning, AI, or Advanced Analytics
• Experience working with large-scale datasets
• Experience with ML frameworks such as Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, XGBoost, or equivalent
• Knowledge of data visualization and analytical storytelling
• Proficiency in Python, SQL, R, or similar analytical languages
• Proven solid foundation in statistics, predictive modeling, and machine learning
• Proven solid problem-solving and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Generative AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), Agentic AI, or related technologies
• Experience building predictive or decision intelligence solutions
• Experience with anomaly detection, recommendation engines, or intelligent automation solutions
• Experience working in large enterprise environments
• Familiarity with cloud-based analytics platforms
• All employees working remotely will be required to adhere to UnitedHealth Group's Telecommuter Policy.

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The salary for this role will range from $91,700 - $163,700 annually based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.

Application Deadline:

This will be posted for a minimum of 2 business days or until a sufficient candidate pool has been collected. Job posting may come down early due to volume of applicants.

At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location and income-deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission.

UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.

UnitedHealth Group is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.