AI Data Solutions Scientist

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. With a strong commitment to integrity, loyalty, honesty, and service, USAA strives to be the preferred choice for those who serve and protect our nation. We foster an inclusive and innovative environment that values diversity, continuous learning, and professional growth. Our company provides a supportive workplace where employees can make a meaningful impact on the lives of our members while advancing their careers in a dynamic and collaborative setting. We are proud to support active-duty military spouses and offer flexible work arrangements, including remote and hybrid options, to accommodate their unique needs.

About The Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative AI Data Solutions Scientist to join our Technology organization at USAA. In this pivotal role, you will work within our forward-thinking Data Science team, collaborating closely with architecture, engineering, and product teams to revolutionize our operations and member experiences. Your expertise will drive the development of scalable, automated analytical solutions that leverage both structured and unstructured data, utilizing advanced techniques such as machine learning, simulation, optimization, and the latest in generative AI, large language models, and agent frameworks. This role offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of AI modeling, shaping the future of data-driven decision-making at USAA. The position is based in San Antonio, TX, Plano, TX, or Phoenix, AZ, with a requirement to work in-office four days per week. Relocation assistance is not available for this role.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, computer science, statistics, engineering, or a related quantitative field, or equivalent relevant experience. A minimum of six years of experience in predictive analytics or data analysis is required, with an advanced degree such as a Master’s or PhD preferred, along with at least four years of relevant experience. Proven expertise in training and validating complex statistical, machine learning, and AI models is essential, along with strong programming skills in Python for analysis and model deployment. Candidates should have extensive experience querying and preprocessing data using SQL, NoSQL, or similar languages, and demonstrated ability to communicate complex findings to non-technical stakeholders. Familiarity with classical and unsupervised modeling techniques, large language models, agent systems, and MLOps practices in cloud environments (AWS, GCP) is highly desirable. Experience in regulated industries such as financial services, insurance, or banking, along with knowledge of model risk management and regulatory compliance, will set candidates apart.

Responsibilities

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

Design, develop, and deploy scalable machine learning, simulation, and optimization solutions that deliver measurable business value.

Select appropriate modeling techniques considering data limitations, application requirements, and business objectives.

Ensure models are developed and deployed within the Model Development Control (MDC) and Model Risk Management (MRM) frameworks, maintaining compliance and transparency.

Produce and review technical documentation for knowledge sharing, risk management, and peer review purposes.

Assess business needs to identify and recommend impactful analytical and modeling projects.

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

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

Translate complex business questions into analytical problems, execute analyses, and communicate actionable insights to non-technical audiences.

Manage project milestones, identify risks, escalate issues, and ensure timely delivery of solutions.

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

Maintain awareness of emerging techniques and technologies in AI and data science, continuously enhancing skills and knowledge.

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

Participate in internal communities to advance data science capabilities and promote innovative practices.

Ensure all activities comply with risk, compliance, and ethical standards, effectively managing associated risks.

Benefits

USAA offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the physical, financial, and emotional well-being of our employees. Our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan with company matching, pension options, life insurance, parental leave, adoption assistance, paid time off including holidays and volunteer hours, and various wellness programs. We also prioritize professional development through career path planning, continuing education, and leadership opportunities, enabling our employees to grow and succeed within the organization. Our commitment to work-life balance and employee satisfaction makes USAA a rewarding place to build a career.

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. We believe that a diverse workforce enhances our ability to serve our members effectively and fosters innovation within our organization.