Data Scientist

Role & responsibilities

DATA SCIENTIST - Higher Education Predictive Analytics

Preferred candidate profile

DATA SCIENTIST - Higher Education Predictive Analytics

Position Title:

Position Summary:

Core Responsibilities:

• Design and implement ensemble ML models (XGBoost, Random Forest, neural networks) for lead scoring using Vertex AI Custom Jobs
• Develop churn prediction models using survival analysis and cohort-based approaches in BigQuery ML
• Perform feature engineering with SQL on BigQuery datasets (demographic, behavioral, academic data)
• Deploy real-time scoring endpoints via Vertex AI and integrate with institutional CRM systems
• Create explainable AI dashboards for non-technical stakeholders (Deans, enrollment managers)
• Conduct A/B testing frameworks for pricing optimization and intervention strategies
• Track sprint progress and log hours in Azure DevOps 7Pace for transparent billing
• Ensure FERPA compliance in all model development and data handling processes

Required Technical Skills:

• GCP Vertex AI: Model training, AutoML, endpoint deployment, monitoring
• BigQuery: Advanced SQL, ML integration, scheduled queries, cohort analysis
• Python: scikit-learn, TensorFlow, pandas, numpy, SHAP/LIME for explainability
• Statistics: Logistic regression, time-series analysis, survival modeling, propensity scoring
• Azure DevOps 7Pace: Time tracking and sprint management

Higher Education Domain Expertise:

• Experience with student lifecycle analytics (inquiry enrollment retention graduation)
• Familiarity with enrollment funnel optimization and conversion rate modeling
• Knowledge of FERPA, data privacy in educational contexts
• Understanding of academic program pricing dynamics and elasticity modeling

Qualifications:

• Master's/PhD in Data Science, Statistics, or related field
• 5+ years ML experience; 2+ years GCP/Vertex AI
• Google Cloud Professional Data Engineer or ML Engineer certification preferred
• Proven track record delivering education analytics solutions