As a Data Science Specialist in 3M's Abrasive Systems Division R&D lab, you will collaborate with materials scientists and engineers to drive the product pipeline through experimental work involving DOE design, response-surface modeling, Bayesian optimization, and measurement-system analysis. You will build models that influence real-world decisions and coach the team on statistical thinking and practical ML applications. This role requires a strong background in quantitative disciplines such as statistics or engineering, with experience in materials science and applied data science in R&D settings. Key skills include Python fluency, proficiency in classical statistics and DoE, and familiarity with industrial automation and LLM tooling. You will work closely with the ASD Director of Systems and AI to shape division-level data science direction and improve experimental quality across the lab.
Skills
Python
Bayesian optimization
Design of Experiments (DoE)
surrogate modeling
multi-fidelity methods
active learning
LLM tooling
R
statistical libraries
industrial automation
lab data systems
vision systems
instrumented test environments
cloud services
AI capabilities
What you'll do
Apply ML and statistical modeling to materials R&D by designing and analyzing experiments.
Coach the R&D team on statistical thinking, DOE, measurement-system practice, and practical ML.
Strengthen measurement system practices across the lab to enhance experimental quality and decision-making.
Partner with scientists on Bayesian optimization and variable selection for abrasive formulations and processes.
Collaborate with 3M’s data science community to integrate relevant methods and cloud/AI capabilities.
What we're looking for
Bachelor’s degree in a quantitative or engineering discipline (statistics, applied math, computer science, data science, physics, or engineering)
Five years of applied data science experience in R&D, materials, process, or manufacturing environments
Master's or PhD in a quantitative or engineering discipline with relevant industry background
Experience with surrogate modeling, Bayesian optimization, and active learning techniques
Strong Python fluency with proficiency in statistical libraries and classical statistics
Demonstrated ability to partner with researchers on experiments that influence decisions
Familiarity with industrial automation systems, lab data systems, vision systems, or instrumented test environments
Market check
Salary context
This
$164,612–$201,193
range sits above
76%
of similar postings on FindRole.
Peer median band
$99,000–$211,075
Median floor and ceiling across peers.
Typical midpoint (25–75%)
$126,800–$181,588
Middle half of comparable postings.
Based on 240 comparable postings.*
* 240 is the maximum number of comparable postings sampled.
Employer
About 3M
3M is a diversified technology and manufacturing conglomerate producing thousands of products across healthcare, safety, electronics, transportation, and consumer goods. Industry: Diversified Manufacturing
3M currently has
38 open roles
on FindRole.
Listed pay typically runs
$145,676–$178,049
across 34 roles with salary data.