Data Science Intern, Algorithms (Summer 2027)
Summary
A summer 2027 data science internship on Lyft's Algorithms team in San Francisco, building mathematical, optimization, and machine-learning models behind the rideshare platform's pricing, dispatch, and incentives systems. Interns write production modeling code, run experiments, and analyze marketplace data using Python and standard ML libraries.
At Lyft, our purpose is to serve and connect. We aim to achieve this by cultivating a work environment where all team members belong and have the opportunity to thrive.
Lyft’s Data Science Team builds mathematical models underpinning the platform’s core services. Compared to other technology companies of a similar size, the set of problems that we tackle is incredibly diverse. They cut across optimization, prediction, modeling, inference, transportation, and mapping. We're looking for Masters or PhD students who are passionate about solving mathematical problems with data and are excited about working in a fast-paced, innovative and collegial environment.
We are hiring for a variety of Data Science interns, focusing on the following specialties:
- Optimization: Construct and fit statistical or optimization models that facilitate automated decision making in the app.
- Machine Learning: Design, build, tune, and deploy machine learning models with a special emphasis on feature engineering and deployment.
- Inference: Design and analyze tests in our dynamic marketplace, estimating statistical and ML models to enable better decisions, and developing and evaluating algorithmic policies in our pricing, dispatch, and incentives systems.
You will report into a Science Manager.
Responsibilities:
- Partner with Engineers, Product Managers, and other cross-functional partners to frame problems, both mathematically and within the business context
- Perform exploratory data analysis to gain a deeper understanding of the problem
- Write production modeling code; collaborate with software engineers to implement algorithms in production
- Design and run both simulated and live traffic experiments
- Analyze experimental and observational data; communicate findings including working with partner teams and presentations; facilitate launch decisions
Experience:
- Currently pursuing a Masters or PhD degree in mathematical sciences (Operations Research, Computer Science, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Theoretical Physics, Behavioral Science, Electrical Engineering, etc.), Economics (Microeconomics Theory, Econometrics etc.), Data Engineering; or a related field; with a graduation date between December 2027 and June 2028 (required)
- Available during Summer 2027 for an internship in San Francisco
- Experience coding in Python (required) or SQL, R; standard data science libraries (NumPy, Scikit-learn, PyTorch, TensorFlow, Keras); and ML Tools & Libraries (NumPy, SpaCy, NLTK, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, Keras)
- Experimental design and analysis
- Exploratory data analysis
- Expertise in one of these specialties: optimization and mathematical modeling, machine learning fundamentals, or probabilistic and statistical modeling
- Bonus points: Experience in marketplace design, ridesharing, studying two-sided marketplaces, and/or transportation
Benefits:
- Great medical, dental, and vision insurance options
- Mental health benefits
- In addition to holidays, interns receive 2 days paid time off and 3 days sick time off
- 401(k) plan to help save for your future
- Pre-tax commuter benefits
- Lyft Pink - Lyft team members get an exclusive opportunity to test new benefits of our Ridership Program
Lyft is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive workplace that fosters belonging. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, age, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by law. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with applicable federal, state and local law.
Lyft highly values having employees working in-office to foster a collaborative work environment and company culture. This role will be in-office on a hybrid schedule — Team Members will be expected to work in the office 3 days per week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Lyft considers working in the office at least 3 days per week to be an essential function of this hybrid role. Your recruiter can share more information about the various in-office perks Lyft offers. #Hybrid
The expected base pay range for this position in the San Francisco area is $58-$62/hour USD, not inclusive of potential equity offering, bonus or benefits. Salary ranges are dependent on a variety of factors, including qualifications, experience and geographic location. Your recruiter can share more information about the salary range specific to your working location and other factors during the hiring process.
Skills
As published by greenhouse · 15 questions
Basics
First Name, Last Name, Email, Phone, Resume/CV, Location
Short answers (5)
- Current University
- Please describe any need for a reasonable accommodation for this hiring process (no documentation required). optional
- LinkedIn Profile optional
- Zip / postal code
- I certify that the facts set forth in this Application for Employment are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that if I am employed, false statements, omissions or misrepresentations may result in my dismissal. I authorize the Employer to make an investigation of any of the facts set forth in this application and release the Employer from any liability. The employer may contact any provided references.
Pick from a list (10)
- Which of these three tracks (Machine Learning, Inference, Optimization) are you strongest in?
- What is your anticipated graduation month and year?
- Please enter your relevant employment and military service above using the + Add Another Employment link.
- May we contact your current employer?
- Can you perform these essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation?
- Work Authorization
- Please review the linked document:
- Please share your gender pronouns. optional
- Have you been employed by Lyft, or any subsidiary, affiliate, or business unit of Lyft, in the past (whether on a full-time or part-time basis)?
- This position is based in San Francisco, California. Do you currently reside in commutable proximity to a Lyft Office located in San Francisco or are you open to relocating?
