AI Data Scientist, Sr.

About the role

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 our core values of honesty, integrity, loyalty, and service, which guide our interactions with members and each other. USAA is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, supporting active-duty military spouses, and providing flexible work arrangements where possible. We aim to be the preferred choice for the military community by delivering innovative solutions and maintaining a strong commitment to excellence.

About The Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative AI Data Solutions Scientist to join our Technology organization. In this role, you will be an integral part of our Data Science team, working collaboratively with architecture, engineering, and product teams to revolutionize our operations and member experiences. Your primary focus will be on transforming complex data into actionable insights by leveraging advanced analytical techniques, machine learning, and cutting-edge AI technologies including generative AI, large language models, and agent frameworks. You will develop scalable, automated models and solutions that directly impact business outcomes, ensuring they adhere to our Model Development Control (MDC) and Model Risk Management (MRM) standards. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on innovative projects at the forefront of AI technology, contributing to the next generation of AI modeling at USAA.

The role requires a flexible work environment with a requirement to be in the office four days per week. The position can be based in San Antonio, TX, Plano, TX, or Phoenix, AZ. Relocation assistance is not provided. This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned data scientist passionate about applying AI to solve complex business problems and eager to work in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in mathematics, Computer Science, Statistics, Science, Engineering, or a related quantitative field, or equivalent relevant experience (4+ years)

6+ years of experience in predictive analytics or data analysis, or an advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) with at least 4 years of relevant experience

Proven experience in training, validating, and deploying advanced analytics models including statistical, physical, and machine learning models (4+ years)

Strong proficiency in Python for statistical analysis and AI/ML model development and scoring

Experience with querying and preprocessing data from structured and unstructured databases using SQL, NoSQL, or similar query languages

Deep understanding of classical supervised and unsupervised modeling techniques such as regression, decision trees, clustering algorithms, support vector machines, etc.

Expertise in large language models (LLMs), prompt engineering, multi-agent systems, and frameworks such as LangChain, VertexAI, or MCP

Hands-on 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, focusing on business impact and actionable insights

Experience mentoring junior staff and contributing to data science community initiatives

Responsibilities

Gather, interpret, and manipulate both structured and unstructured data to support advanced analytics solutions

Design, develop, and deploy scalable, automated machine learning, simulation, and optimization models to generate business insights

Select appropriate modeling techniques considering data constraints, application requirements, and business needs

Ensure models are compliant with Model Development Control (MDC) and Model Risk Management (MRM) frameworks

Document technical processes and models for knowledge sharing, risk management, and review purposes

Assess business needs and propose analytics projects that add measurable value

Collaborate with business and analytics leaders to prioritize projects 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 effectively

Manage project timelines, identify risks, and escalate issues as needed to ensure successful delivery

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

Stay updated on the latest techniques and technologies in data science and AI, integrating new knowledge into projects

Mentor junior data scientists and participate in community initiatives to promote data science culture

Ensure compliance with risk, security, and regulatory policies in all analytical activities

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans

401(k) retirement savings plan with company matching

Pension plan and life insurance coverage

Parental leave and adoption assistance programs

Paid time off, holidays, and 16 paid volunteer hours annually

Wellness programs supporting physical, emotional, and financial health

Opportunities for professional development and continuing education

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.