Senior Manager, Data Science

Position Summary

We are seeking a Senior Manager, Data Science to lead our AI efforts in Generative and Agentic AI. You will lead a high‑performing team of Data Scientists, Machine Learning Engineers, and Software Engineers to realize Walmart’s vision of “Four Super Agents.” This role requires a unique blend of scientific leadership and software engineering excellence, bridging the gap between cutting‑edge research and production‑grade delivery.

You will ensure your team has the resources, direction, and technical guidance to build next‑generation AI systems at an unprecedented scale.

Walmart Data Ventures powers the data and AI platform supporting the world’s largest retailer’s suppliers. The Walmart Scintilla team transforms extensive data into actionable insights, recommendations, and innovations that enhance customer, merchant, and supplier outcomes. This team leads advancements in generative AI, agentic intelligence, and machine learning to redefine retail experiences, optimize operations, and develop new business models.

• Recruit, retain, and develop a world‑class team of applied scientists and engineers, fostering a culture of excellence, curiosity, and continuous learning.
• Champion modern SDLC practices, ensuring high standards for system design, code quality, and maintainable architectures.
• Provide high‑level technical oversight for projects involving multi‑agent orchestration, RAG pipelines, and LLM fine‑tuning, ensuring scientific rigor and robust engineering.
• Partner with Product, Engineering, UX, and Business leaders to translate ambiguous business needs into prioritized scientific work streams.
• Oversee the implementation of scalable deployment patterns for LLM‑based services and agentic workflows.

• Leadership
  
  Experience:
  
  3+ years managing high‑performing data science, machine learning, or specialized software engineering teams in a production‑focused environment.
• Technical Depth:
  Strong foundational knowledge in Generative AI, LLMs, and/or Agentic AI systems, complemented by a solid Software Engineering background.
• Systems Design:
  Understanding of distributed systems, API design, and cloud‑native deployment patterns for high‑scale AI applications.
• Communication:
  Exceptional ability to communicate complex scientific and engineering concepts to non‑technical stakeholders.
• Resiliency:
  Ability to navigate high‑uncertainty environments and lead a highly technical team with empathy.

• Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Economics, Analytics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Information Technology or related field and 5 years of experience in an analytics‑related field.
• Master’s degree in Statistics, Economics, Analytics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Information Technology or related field and 3 years of experience in an analytics‑related field.
• 7 years of experience in an analytics or related field.

• Data science, machine learning, optimization models expertise.
• Ph.D. in Machine Learning, Computer Science, Information Technology, Operations Research, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, or Econometrics.
• Demonstrated experience with Python, Spark, Scala, or R and supervisory experience.
• Experience using open source frameworks such as scikit‑learn, Tensor Flow, or PyTorch.
• Background in creating inclusive digital experiences and knowledge of WCAG 2.2 AA standards and assistive technologies.

Sunnyvale, California (zip 94089). Alternate location:
Bentonville, Arkansas (zip 72716).

Sunnyvale, California: $ – $ per year.

Bentonville, Arkansas: $ – $ per year, plus annual or quarterly performance bonuses and stock options.

Comprehensive medical, vision, dental, and wellness coverage for employees and families.

401(k) plan with company match and stock purchase program.

Paid time off including PTO, sick leave, parental leave, family care leave, bereavement, jury duty, and voting leave.

Long‑term and short‑term disability coverage, company discounts, and military leave pay.

Live Better U education benefit program covering tuition and books for eligible associates.

Additional benefits: adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, employee assistance programs, and health and wellness resources.