Lead Data Scientist, New York - Contract

Responsibilities:

• Partner with stakeholders to define data science opportunities, shape problem statements, and deliver impactful solutions.
• Lead end-to-end data science projects—from exploration and modeling to deployment and performance monitoring.
• Mentor and guide a team of data scientists and data engineers; set best practices for modeling, experimentation, and validation.
• Design and implement predictive models, optimization frameworks, and machine learning algorithms tailored to complex business use cases.
• Develop and present compelling visualizations to convey complex data relationships through clear and insightful static graphics.
• Communicate complex technical concepts clearly to senior stakeholders, clients, and non-technical audiences.
• Collaborate with Lab49’s design and engineering teams to embed data science models into scalable digital products.
• Stay ahead of industry trends, research, and emerging technologies in AI/ML, with a focus on practical business applications.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in data science, including at least 2–3 years in a lead/principal role.
• Strong background in applied machine learning, statistical modeling, and predictive analytics.
• Proficiency in Python (Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, Matplotlib, PyTorch/TensorFlow) and SQL; experience with big data tools (Spark, Databricks) is a plus.
• Strong understanding of model deployment, MLOps practices, and productionizing ML solutions.
• Proven ability to create effective data visualizations for storytelling and decision support.
• Excellent client-facing skills, with the ability to communicate technical concepts and business impact.
• Master’s or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.

Nice to Have

• Some fluency in blockchain and smart contract analytics.