Lead Data Scientist - PPCO AI/ML

Description
Work Classification:
Hybrid: This means the successful candidate is expected to report to their primary location (Warren, MI) three times per week, at minimum, or other frequency dictated by the business.
The Role:
Seeking a Lead Data Scientist to drive the development and deployment of advanced AI/ML solutions that transform cost engineering and product profitability. This role will serve as the technical lead for AI innovation within PPCO, with a focus on scalable, production-grade systems that integrate engineering, manufacturing, and supplier data to optimize vehicle cost and component strategies.
What You'll Do:

• Architect and lead the development of AI/ML models for cost estimation, risk modeling, and design optimization, leveraging LLMs, RAG pipelines, and agentic AI to solve complex cost engineering challenges.
• Own the full lifecycle of AI/ML solutions-from hypothesis testing and proof-of-concept development to scalable deployment in production environments.
• Translate domain needs into actionable AI/ML solutions by serving as a technical bridge across engineering, purchasing, analytics, and business teams.
• Shape the AI/ML roadmap for cost engineering by identifying emerging technologies and proactively developing capabilities to meet future needs.
• Provide technical vision and mentorship, scaling best practices in experimentation, model development, and deployment across the team.
• Pioneer novel applications of AI/ML to enhance efficiency, decision-making, and profitability in cost analytics.
• Drive initiatives with rigor, reproducibility, and speed, ensuring seamless transition from concept to enterprise-scale impact.

Your Skills & Abilities ( Required Qualifications):

• Master's in Engineering, Physics, Statistics, or a related quantitative field (Ph.D. strongly preferred)
• 7+ years of experience in data science, with 3+ years in production-grade AI/ML systems
• Deep expertise in:
  
  • Deep learning (CNNs, RNNs)
  • Classical ML (regression, classification)
  • Python (PyTorch, TensorFlow, HuggingFace, Scikit-learn, XGBoost)
  • Cloud platforms, Spark, Databricks, SQL
  • LLMs, RAG pipelines, and agentic AI
• Proven ability to build PoC apps (e.g., Streamlit, Dash) for stakeholder engagement
• Strong understanding of cost engineering, manufacturing processes, and supplier economics
• Demonstrated success in delivering AI/ML solutions that drive measurable cost savings

What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications):

• Ph.D. in Engineering, Physics, Statistics, or a related quantitative field
• 10+ years of experience in data science, with 3+ years in production-grade AI/ML systems
• Familiarity with GM's cost structure, purchasing systems, and vehicle development lifecycle
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
• Strategic mindset with a bias for action and experimentation

C ompany Vehicle:
Upon successful completion of a motor vehicle report review, you will be eligible to participate in a company vehicle evaluation program, through which you will be assigned a General Motors vehicle to drive and evaluate. Note: program participants are required to purchase/lease a qualifying GM vehicle every four years unless one of a limited number of exceptions applies.
Benefits:
GM offers a variety of health and wellbeing benefit programs. Benefit options include medical, dental, vision, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, retirement savings plan, sickness and accident benefits, life insurance, paid vacation & holidays, tuition assistance programs, employee assistance program, GM vehicle discounts and more.
Relocation:
This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.
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