AI Data Scientist, Sr.

About The Company

USAA is a leading financial services organization dedicated to serving the military community and their families. Our mission is to empower our members to achieve financial security through highly competitive products, exceptional service, and trusted advice. We pride ourselves on maintaining core values such as honesty, integrity, loyalty, and service, which guide our interactions with members and colleagues alike. USAA is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, including offering remote or hybrid work options for active-duty military spouses in accordance with applicable policies and business needs. Our organization is known for its innovative approach to financial solutions, leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver outstanding value and service to our members.

About The Role

As an AI Data Solutions Scientist within USAA's Technology organization, you will be an integral part of our dynamic Data Science team. Your role involves collaborating across functions with architecture, engineering, and product teams to revolutionize our operations and enhance member experiences through advanced data-driven insights. You will work on a broad spectrum of business challenges, utilizing both structured and unstructured data, and applying a range of analytical techniques including simulation, optimization, machine learning, and emerging AI technologies such as generative AI, large and small language models, and agent frameworks. This position offers an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of AI innovation, shaping the future of USAA’s data science capabilities and delivering impactful solutions that benefit our members.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, Statistics, Science, Engineering, or a related quantitative field; or 4 years of relevant experience
• 6+ years of experience in predictive analytics or data analysis, or an advanced degree (Master’s, PhD) with 4+ years of relevant experience
• Proven experience in training and validating complex statistical, physical, and machine learning models (4+ years)
• Extensive experience with Python for statistical analysis and AI/ML model development (4+ years)
• Strong proficiency in querying and preprocessing data using SQL, HQL, NoSQL, or similar languages
• Demonstrated ability to perform ad-hoc analytics with descriptive, diagnostic, and inferential statistics
• Understanding of regulatory implications and experience in statistical validation of models for risk management
• Expertise in classical supervised modeling techniques such as linear/logistic regression, decision trees, and ensemble models
• Experience with unsupervised learning methods like clustering algorithms (k-means, hierarchical, DBSCAN)
• Knowledge of large language models (LLMs), agent systems, prompt engineering, and frameworks such as LangChain, VertexAI, MCP, etc.
• Experience with MLOps and deploying AI solutions in cloud environments like AWS or GCP
• Ability to communicate complex analytical results effectively to non-technical stakeholders
• Proven mentoring skills and experience guiding junior data scientists

Responsibilities

• Gather, interpret, and manipulate both structured and unstructured data to enable advanced analytics solutions
• Develop scalable and automated models using machine learning, simulation, and optimization techniques to generate actionable insights
• Select appropriate modeling methods considering data constraints, application context, and business needs
• Develop and deploy models within the Model Development Control (MDC) and Model Risk Management (MRM) frameworks
• Create and review technical documentation for knowledge sharing, risk management, and technical validation purposes
• Assess business needs to identify and recommend analytical projects that add value
• Collaborate with business and analytics leaders to prioritize modeling and research efforts
• Build and maintain a library of high-quality, reusable algorithms and supporting code for transparency and efficiency
• Translate complex business questions into analytical tasks, execute analyses, and communicate findings with clear business implications
• Manage project timelines, risks, and dependencies, escalating issues as needed
• Establish best practices for deploying models in collaboration with Data Engineering and IT teams
• Stay current with emerging techniques, technologies, and methodologies in data science and AI
• Mentor junior team members in modeling, analytics, and technical problem-solving
• Participate in community initiatives to advance data science practices and culture within the organization
• Ensure compliance with risk, security, and regulatory policies in all analytical activities

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching
• Pension plan and life insurance coverage
• Parental leave and adoption assistance programs
• Paid time off, including holidays and volunteer hours
• Wellness programs supporting physical, emotional, and financial health
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education
• Supportive work environment with flexible work arrangements where applicable

Equal Opportunity

USAA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.