Hybrid Lead Data Scientist

at Securian Financial

• Job title: Lead Data Scientist
• Job type: Full Time
• Experience level: Senior
• Salary: $111,300 - $207,800 per year
• Degree requirement: Postgraduate Degree
• Tech skills: AWS, Azure, Cloud, Python, PyTorch, Scikit-Learn, Tensorflow
• Location requirements: Hybrid, Saint Paul, United States

About the role

• Lead Data Scientist applying machine learning expertise to drive AI initiatives at Securian Financial. Collaborating across teams to advance enterprise AI and analytics capabilities with a focus on innovation.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and productionize advanced machine learning and AI models in partnership with data engineering and software engineering teams.
• Establish and promote MLOps best practices, including experiment tracking, model versioning, reproducibility, CI/CD, and model monitoring using tools such as MLflow and DSpy.
• Lead the design and evaluation of AI and generative AI solutions, including LLM-based systems, and agent-based workflows.
• Collaborate with cross-functional team to identify, prioritize, and deliver high-impact, data-driven solutions.
• Communicate complex analytical and model-driven insights to technical and non-technical audiences through clear narratives, reports, and presentations.
• Ensure model quality, robustness, and regulatory alignment through rigorous testing, validation, and explainability techniques.
• Drive adoption of enterprise standards for data science, machine learning, and responsible AI.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and automation using advanced analytics and AI techniques.
• Lead and mentor more junior data scientists, providing guidance and support in their professional development while working on projects.

Requirements

• A Master's or PhD degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in data science or a related field, with a minimum of 2 years in a project leadership role.
• Experience building and deploying production solutions
• Experience with MLOps tools and practices, including MLflow (or similar) for experiment tracking and model management.
• 2+ years of experience in Insurance, actuarial, or a related field
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python
• Strong expertise in machine learning frameworks and libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn).
• Experience with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
• Solid understanding of statistical analysis, data visualization, data wrangling techniques, NLP approaches, ML model selection.
• Solid understanding of model approaches to satisfy regulatory requirements regarding explainability/interpretability of advanced AI/ML models
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically and analytically.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks effectively.
• A passion for continuous learning and staying current with industry trends and developments.
• Preferred Skills
• Experience with natural language processing (NLP), LLMs, prompt engineering, and advanced ML models.
• Familiarity with modern ML debugging, evaluation, and optimization tools such as DSpy or equivalent.
• Knowledge of responsible AI practices, including bias detection, fairness assessment, and model risk management.
• Knowledge of data governance and data privacy regulations.
• Background in finance, healthcare, or other specialized industries.

Benefits

• Paid time off: We want you to take time off for what matters most to you. Our PTO program provides flexibility for associates to take meaningful time away from work to relax, recharge and spend time doing what’s important to them. And Securian Financial rewards associates for their service by providing additional PTO the longer you stay at Securian.
• Leave programs: Securian’s flexible leave programs allow time off from work for parental leave, caregiver leave for family members, bereavement and military leave.
• Holidays: Securian provides nine company paid holidays.
• Company-funded pension plan and a 401(k) retirement plan: Share in the success of our company. Securian’s 401(k) company contribution is tied to our performance up to 10 percent of eligible earnings, with a target of 5 percent. The amount is based on company results compared to goals related to earnings, sales and service.
• Health insurance: From the first day of employment, associates and their eligible family members – including spouses, domestic partners and children – are eligible for medical, dental and vision coverage.
• Volunteer time: We know the importance of community. Through company-sponsored events, volunteer paid time off, a dollar-for-dollar matching gift program and more, we encourage you to support organizations important to you.
• Associate Resource Groups: Build connections, be yourself and develop meaningful relationships at work through associate-led ARGs. Dedicated groups focus on a variety of interests and affinities, including: Mental Wellness and Disability Pride at Securian Financial Securian Young Professionals Network Securian Multicultural Network Securian Women and Allies Network Servicemember Associate Resource Group