Lead Data Scientist

A client of mine based in Arlington, VA is seeking a Lead Data Scientist to join their team. This is a hybrid role, requiring 2–3 days per week in the office. The company specializes in providing transparent, customized financing solutions to small businesses, helping them access capital through a range of loan, credit, and factoring products. As Lead Data Scientist, you’ll drive high-impact projects—from enhancing credit risk models and automating decision-making workflows to uncovering data-driven insights that fuel business growth.

Required Skills & Experience
· MS or PhD in Economics, Marketing, Statistics, Finance, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field
· 5+ years of experience in financial services with hands-on ML/AI model development
· Proficiency in Python, SQL, Linux, and AWS
· Experience developing and deploying LLM applications, including RAG systems and chatbot solutions using open-source and third-party GenAI platforms
· Strong foundation in machine learning, deep learning, and traditional modeling techniques (e.g., regression, tree-based models)
· Familiarity with tools such as Amazon Bedrock, Abacus.ai, and Agent Force

Desired Skills & Experience
· Experience with marketing mix modeling, digital attribution, time-series forecasting, Bayesian statistics, and segmentation
· Background in simulation, optimization, and predictive analytics for business functions like sales, underwriting, collections, and HR
· Strong communication, mentorship, and project management skills
· Agile/Scrum experience
· Strategic mindset with business acumen and stakeholder engagement skills

What You Will Be Doing
· Leading the development and deployment of predictive and generative AI models across core business areas
· Architecting and implementing LLM-based chatbot and RAG systems for internal use
· Analyzing large datasets to drive decision-making and model development
· Collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver scalable, data-driven solutions
· Mentoring junior team members and advocating for GenAI adoption across the company

Tech Breakdown
· 60% Machine Learning & AI (LLMs, RAG, Predictive Modeling)
· 25% Data Engineering & Integration (Data Sources, Platform Integration, AWS)
· 15% Visualization & Communication (EDA, Reporting, Stakeholder Engagement)

Daily Responsibilities
· 70% Hands-On Development & Modeling
· 10% Mentoring & Team Guidance
· 20% Cross-Functional Collaboration & Strategic Planning

The Offer
You will receive the following benefits:
· Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
· Vacation Time
· Stock Options
· 401k with Match


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