As a Lead Data Scientist at USAA, you will collaborate with the Data Science Director to oversee and implement AI/ML solutions across Consumer Lending, Bank Operations, and Automation domains. Your daily tasks include supervising data scientists, guiding project selection based on business needs, developing models within regulatory frameworks, and mentoring junior team members. You’ll work with complex datasets using Python or R for model building and SQL for querying databases, ensuring high-quality, transparent code. This role requires expertise in both supervised and unsupervised modeling techniques, as well as strong communication skills to translate technical insights into actionable business recommendations for senior leadership.
Skills
Python
R
SQL
HQL
NoSQL
linear regression
logistic regression
decision trees
k-means clustering
hierarchical clustering
DBSCAN
project management
model validation
MDC
MRM
data engineering
IT deployment
regulatory compliance
communication skills
team mentoring
descriptive statistics
diagnostic statistics
inferential statistics
What you'll do
Leads the development and deployment of AI/ML models within regulatory frameworks.
Guides team in selecting appropriate modeling techniques based on data limitations and business needs.
Manages project portfolios to ensure successful implementation and escalates issues as needed.
Mentors junior data scientists, enhancing their technical and business acumen skills.
Builds and maintains a library of reusable, production-quality algorithms for transparent model development.
What we're looking for
8+ years of experience in predictive analytics or data analysis.
Advanced degree in a quantitative field and expertise in machine learning models.
Expertise in Python/R for statistical analyses and AI/ML model building.
Strong skills in querying and preprocessing structured/unstructured data.
Proven ability to mentor junior technical staff and communicate complex ideas.
Extensive experience with both supervised and unsupervised modeling techniques.
Demonstrated success in managing project risks and communicating with senior leadership.
Market check
Salary context
This
$164,780–$314,960
range sits above
93%
of similar postings on FindRole.
Peer median band
$110,000–$220,000
Median floor and ceiling across peers.
Typical midpoint (25–75%)
$126,800–$199,800
Middle half of comparable postings.
Based on 239 comparable postings.*
* 240 is the maximum number of comparable postings sampled.
Employer
About USAA
USAA (United Services Automobile Association) is a San Antonio-based Fortune 500 financial services company founded in 1922, dedicated to providing insurance, banking, and investment solutions exclusively to U.S. military members, veterans, and their families.
USAA currently has
7 open roles
on FindRole.
Listed pay typically runs
$127,310–$243,340
across 5 roles with salary data.