Principal Data Scientist; Chicago

Principal Data Scientist (Chicago)

Fitch Ratings is currently seeking a principal data scientist, Director for its Emerging Technology AI Center of Excellence (COE) group based out of our Chicago office.

As a leading global financial information services provider, Fitch Group delivers vital credit and risk insights, robust data, and dynamic tools to champion more efficient, transparent financial markets. With over 100 years of experience and colleagues in over 30 countries, Fitch Group’s culture of credibility, independence, and transparency is embedded throughout its structure, which includes Fitch Ratings, one of the world’s top three credit ratings agencies.

Overview

The Fitch Group Emerging Technology AI COE group will be dedicated to building and supporting Generative AI, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and Data Science solutions across the organization. The position could be based out of our Chicago office.

Responsibilities

• Work closely as part of the product squads to build, integrate, and deploy GenAI and data science solutions.

• Lead and manage development and research projects focused on generative AI, deep learning, machine learning, NLP, and large language models.

• Design, develop, and deploy state‑of‑the‑art machine learning models and algorithms that leverage deep learning, NLP and computer vision techniques.

• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to identify opportunities for AI‑driven solutions and integrate them into existing systems and workflows.

• Conduct experiments to validate the performance and effectiveness of developed models and iterate on improvements based on results.

• Effectively communicate advanced data science/ML concepts in simple language to business stakeholders, always focusing on its applicability to Fitch business.

• Collaborate with MLEs to identify innovative machine learning and GenAI solutions that leverage data to meet business goals.

• Stay up to date with the latest advancements in AI, machine learning, NLP, and large language models, and apply this knowledge to drive innovation within the organization.

• Mentor and provide guidance to junior data scientists and researchers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.

• Contribute to the creation of intellectual property, such as patents and publications, to enhance the company's competitive edge.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or master’s degree in computer science, Data Science, Machine Learning, or a related field.

• A minimum of 7 years of experience in data science, with a strong focus on generative AI, deep learning, machine learning, NLP, and large language models.

• Proven track record of developing and deploying successful deep learning and NLP models in real‑world applications.

• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, and experience with machine learning frameworks such as PyTorch, Tensor Flow or similar.

• Strong understanding of natural language processing (NLP) techniques and experience with large language models like GPT, BERT, or similar.

• Proficiency in machine learning and deep learning algorithms such as Neural networks, multi‑class classifications, decision trees, support vector machines, etc.

• Prior experience building GenAI frameworks and fine‑tuning LLMs.

• Excellent problem‑solving skills and the ability to think critically and creatively.

• Strong communication and leadership skills, with a demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment.

• Exposure/experience in containerization technologies like Docker, Kubernetes, AWS EKS, etc.

• Knowledge of popular cloud computing vendors (AWS and Azure) infrastructure & services such as AWS Bedrock, AWS S3, AWS Sage Maker, Azure AI Search, Azure OpenAI, Azure Blob Storage, etc.

What Would Make You Stand Out

• Passionate about the power of data, GenAI, and predictive analytics to drive better business outcomes for customers.

• Proven ability to work effectively in a distributed working environment and in a fast‑paced environment.

• Familiarity with credit ratings agencies, regulations, and data products around the world.

• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.

• A champion of good code quality…