AI Data Solutions Scientist

About the role

About The Company

USAA is a leading financial services organization dedicated to serving the unique needs of military members and their families. With a mission to empower its members to achieve financial security, USAA offers a broad range of highly competitive products, including banking, insurance, investments, and retirement solutions. The company is renowned for its exceptional customer service, trusted advice, and unwavering commitment to integrity, loyalty, and honesty. USAA fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment that values innovation, professional growth, and community engagement. Supporting active-duty military spouses and veterans, USAA provides flexible work arrangements, including remote and hybrid options, to accommodate diverse needs and promote work-life balance.

About The Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative AI Data Solutions Scientist to join our dynamic Technology organization. In this role, you will be an integral part of our Data Science team, working collaboratively with cross-functional partners including architecture, engineering, and product teams. Your primary focus will be to develop and implement advanced analytical solutions that transform operational processes and enhance member experiences. You will leverage both structured and unstructured data, utilizing traditional operations research techniques such as simulation, optimization, and machine learning, along with cutting-edge technologies like generative AI, large language models, and agent frameworks. This position offers an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of AI modeling, shaping the future of USAA’s digital capabilities and innovation initiatives.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess a strong educational background and extensive experience in data science and predictive analytics. A bachelor’s degree in mathematics, computer science, statistics, engineering, or a related quantitative field is required, along with at least six years of relevant experience. An advanced degree such as a Master’s or PhD is highly preferred, especially for candidates with four or more years of experience in predictive modeling, machine learning, and data analysis. Proficiency in Python, SQL, and NoSQL query languages is essential, along with demonstrated expertise in developing, validating, and deploying models within risk management frameworks. Candidates should have a solid understanding of classical supervised and unsupervised modeling techniques, as well as experience with large language models, agent systems, and MLOps in cloud environments like AWS or GCP. Strong communication skills are necessary to articulate complex analytical insights to non-technical stakeholders, and prior experience mentoring junior staff is a plus.

Responsibilities

Gather, interpret, and manipulate both structured and unstructured data to enable advanced analytics and drive business insights.

Develop scalable, automated solutions utilizing machine learning, simulation, and optimization techniques to deliver actionable business value.

Select appropriate modeling techniques based on data limitations, application needs, and business objectives.

Develop and deploy models within the Model Development Control (MDC) and Model Risk Management (MRM) frameworks, ensuring compliance and quality standards.

Compose and review technical documentation for knowledge sharing, risk assessment, and technical validation purposes.

Assess business needs and propose analytical projects that add measurable value.

Collaborate with business and analytics leaders to prioritize initiatives and research efforts.

Build and maintain a library of reusable, production-quality algorithms and supporting code to ensure transparency and quality in model development.

Translate complex business questions into analytical problems, execute analyses, and communicate findings with clear recommendations.

Manage project milestones, identify risks, and escalate issues proactively to ensure successful project delivery.

Develop best practices for collaboration with Data Engineering and IT teams to deploy production-ready analytical solutions.

Stay current with emerging techniques, technologies, and methodologies in data science and AI.

Mentor junior data scientists, fostering a culture of continuous learning and technical excellence.

Participate in internal communities focused on advancing data science capabilities and culture.

Ensure all activities comply with risk management policies, regulatory standards, and ethical guidelines.

Benefits

USAA offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the physical, financial, and emotional well-being of its employees. Benefits include extensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, pension options, life insurance, parental leave, adoption assistance, and paid time off that encompasses holidays and volunteer hours. The organization also provides wellness programs, career development opportunities, and continuing education support to help employees achieve their professional goals. USAA is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where employees can thrive and grow both personally and professionally.

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 veteran status. We promote a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best.