Staff Data Scientist — AI Leader for Energy & Operations

Valero; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Pay and Annual Bonus

401(k) match

Pension Plan

Healthcare and Wellness Programs

Onsite Daycare

Onsite Fitness Center

Job summary

Valero is seeking a Staff Data Scientist to lead transformative AI initiatives across its refining and commercial units. You will partner with leaders to identify high-value opportunities, architect scalable AI solutions, and drive projects from ideation to deployment and optimization.

In this senior role, you will mentor junior data scientists and help build organizational AI/ML capability, while aligning with enterprise governance and strategic goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or higher in a quantitative field such as Mathematics, Engineering, Data Science or Computer Science.
• 10+ years of experience in programming and data mining.
• On-site, in-person at Valero San Antonio location, required.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of AI/ML solutions across business units to deliver insights for operational and commercial questions.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration with Refining Operations, Supply & Trading, Planning & Economics, and Technology teams.
• Define and monitor KPIs to evaluate AI/ML solutions and improve operational efficiency.
• Serve as Valero’s corporate SME on AI/ML, guiding best practices and model interpretation.
• Research and evaluate emerging AI/ML tools and platforms for governance, scalability, and responsible use.

Skills

Problem solving

Initiative

Results orientation

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor’s or higher in quantitative field

Master’s or higher in quantitative field

Job description

Valero is seeking a Staff Data Scientist to lead transformative AI initiatives across its refining and commercial units. You will partner with leaders to identify high-value opportunities, architect scalable AI solutions, and drive projects from ideation to deployment and optimization.

In this senior role, you will mentor junior data scientists and help build organizational AI/ML capability, while aligning with enterprise governance and strategic goals.