Senior Data Scientist

Assent is seeking a Senior Data Scientist with deep expertise in Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Large Language Model (LLM) fine-tuning to join its AI and Machine Learning team. This role is ideal for a highly skilled individual holding a PhD or Master's degree in Machine Learning, AI, or a related field, complemented by industry experience in developing and deploying NLP-driven AI solutions. The Senior Data Scientist will spearhead the development, tuning, and maintenance of advanced AI models, mentor junior data scientists, and drive innovation in AI-powered solutions. This role involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams to translate complex business challenges into intelligent, data-driven products and solutions. Key responsibilities include analyzing large-scale datasets, uncovering insights, and ensuring data-driven decision-making within AI initiatives. The ideal candidate is a data-oriented, innovative thinker passionate about data, machine learning, understanding business needs, and driving business value. Key responsibilities include leading the research, development, and fine-tuning of state-of-the-art LLMs and NLP models for real-world applications; performing in-depth data analysis to extract actionable insights, improve model performance, and inform AI strategy; designing, implementing, and evaluating LLM-based systems for performance, efficiency, and scalability; mentoring and coaching junior data scientists on NLP, deep learning, and MLOps best practices; deploying and monitoring models in production, ensuring robust performance, fairness, and explainability; staying abreast of advancements in NLP, generative AI, and ethical AI practices; ensuring compliance with Responsible AI principles and relevant industry regulations; and collaborating with engineering and product teams to integrate AI-driven features into SaaS products. This role requires a curious individual unafraid to explore unconventional ideas, applying engineering principles to identify and resolve issues, and proactively improving solutions. The role demands self-motivation, a proactive approach to exploring new technologies, and the ability to find creative solutions for complex or ambiguous data challenges, while effectively managing multiple concurrent projects, priorities, and timelines.

Qualifications: A PhD (preferred) or Master's degree in Machine Learning, AI, NLP, or a related field, supported by a strong publication record in top-tier conferences and journals, is required. Industry experience of 2+ years for PhD holders or 5+ years for Master's holders in building and deploying NLP/LLM solutions at scale is essential. Proven ability to analyze large datasets, extract meaningful insights, and drive data-informed decision-making is crucial. Strong expertise in preparing data for LLM fine-tuning and optimization is necessary. A solid understanding of data engineering concepts, including data pipelines, feature engineering, and vector databases, is required. Proficiency in deep learning frameworks like PyTorch and TensorFlow, and NLP libraries such as Hugging Face Transformers and spaCy, is expected. Solid working knowledge of AWS systems and services, including SageMaker, Bedrock, EC2, S3, Lambda, and Terraform, is required. Familiarity with MLOps best practices, including model versioning, monitoring, and CI/CD pipelines, is important. Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and timelines are essential.

Additional Information: Assent values employee well-being through comprehensive benefits, vacation time, and life leave days. Financial benefits include competitive salaries, bonus programs, and retirement savings options. The company fosters a sense of purpose beyond work with flexible work options and opportunities for community involvement. Lifelong learning is encouraged with professional development days. Assent is committed to an inclusive, equitable, and diverse environment where all team members feel valued, heard, and respected, with opportunities for growth based on merit. Assistance or accommodation for the interview and selection process can be requested by contacting talent@assent.com.