Lead Data Scientist (AI/ML Specialist)

Position Overview

At VantageScore, we are dedicated to making a positive impact on a massive scale by leading in credit modeling and increasing access to financial products and homeownership for millions of Americans. Our innovative tri-bureau models power billions of credit scores each year, reaching historically underserved communities.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and innovative Lead Data Scientist (AI/ML) to join our exceptional analytics team. In this fast-paced, independent start-up culture backed by the three leading US credit bureaus, you will advance credit scoring models and deliver transformative AI-powered products and insights.

Base pay range: $150,000.00/yr - $160,000.00/yr

Key Responsibilities • Conduct advanced research on structured and unstructured data to generate insights supporting product management and new product development. • Contribute to the design, execution, evaluation, and deployment of machine learning models for credit risk and predictive analytics. • Serve as the team expert on GenAI/LLMs, adapting and fine-tuning models while ensuring compliance and explainability. • Lead pilot program analyses, including back-testing, rejection inference, and performance assessments using varied data sets. • Enhance model monitoring processes and create engaging data visualizations and dashboards to share insights with stakeholders. • Collaborate with engineers to integrate models into production systems, ensuring scalability and resilience under heavy loads. • Research and apply emerging AI/ML, GenAI/LLM technologies, and state-of-the-art methods and tools. • Translate complex analyses into clear, actionable business recommendations for both technical and non-technical audiences. • Contribute to thought leadership through white papers, presentations, and external insights.

Required Qualifications • Master's or PhD degree in a quantitative field (e.g., Data Science, Applied Mathematics/Statistics, Computer Science, Engineering, Econometrics). • A minimum of years of professional experience in advanced analytics, AI/ML/LLM, and data science in research and/or corporate settings. • Proficiency in Python for data science and machine learning workflows. • Experience with machine learning techniques (classification, clustering, regression, neural networks) for predictive risk and credit modeling. • Demonstrated ability in conducting research, performing analyses, and delivering clear, impactful presentations or publications. • Experience in delivering insights and solutions that drive business impact. • Experience working in Agile and cross-functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications • Deep expertise in GenAI – Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Large Language Models (LLMs) focusing on training, fine-tuning, explainability, and deployment. • Advanced expertise in machine learning techniques (self-supervised learning, training optimization, explainability) with an emphasis on credit scoring. • Familiarity with modern ML/AI technology stacks, such as PyTorch and AWS. • Experience in delivering scalable AI/ML solutions integrated into production environments. • Strong analytical problem-solving capability and creativity in addressing ambiguous problems. • Exceptional communication skills to articulate technical concepts to varied stakeholders. • Self-motivated with a collaborative attitude and a leadership presence that challenges convention and promotes innovation.

Benefits & Perks • 401(K) matched up to 7% • Flexible Time Off • 12 Paid Holidays • Medical/Dental/Vision/Wellness benefits • Monthly Team Events • Modern Work/Collaboration Spaces