Data Scientist, Sr

About The Company

At UnitedHealthcare, we are dedicated to transforming the healthcare experience by creating healthier communities and eliminating barriers to access and quality care. Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of individuals across the United States by providing innovative, accessible, and affordable healthcare solutions. We believe in building a future where healthcare is more responsive, efficient, and equitable, leveraging cutting-edge technology and data-driven insights to make a meaningful impact on millions of lives. As a leader in the healthcare industry, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment that values integrity, collaboration, and continuous learning.

About The Role

Within the Financial Data Management organization, we are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Data Scientist to join our team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work on pioneering AI and machine learning initiatives that drive strategic decision-making and operational excellence. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in developing and deploying advanced statistical models, traditional machine learning algorithms, deep learning architectures, and modern AI techniques such as Large Language Models (LLMs), Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), and Agentic AI. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including business stakeholders and technology developers, to translate complex business challenges into innovative analytical solutions. This position offers flexibility to work remotely from anywhere within the U.S., with in-office requirements in Minneapolis or Washington, D.C., for a minimum of four days per week.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4+ years of experience in data science, machine learning, or related fields
• Proven experience in transitioning projects from proof-of-concept to scalable, reliable production solutions
• Proficiency in traditional machine learning and statistical modeling techniques, including regression, classification, and sampling design
• Strong coding skills in Python, SQL, and related programming languages
• Experience with Large Language Models (LLMs) and emerging AI technologies
• Demonstrated system-level thinking and creative problem-solving abilities
• Experience working with large, complex datasets and ensuring data integrity and quality
• Excellent communication skills to effectively convey insights and technical information to non-technical stakeholders

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy intelligent models utilizing advanced statistical techniques, machine learning, deep learning, LLMs, RAG, and Agentic AI frameworks
• Lead discovery sessions with business and technical teams to identify key challenges and translate them into analytical objectives
• Conduct robust statistical analyses to inform business decisions, integrating classical inference with generative and agentic reasoning
• Collaborate with data stewards and engineering teams to curate and prepare high-quality datasets for model development
• Develop end-to-end modeling pipelines, including sampling design, data processing, and methodology selection, ensuring reproducibility and transparency
• Communicate complex insights and model outputs to stakeholders through clear, actionable narratives
• Monitor, evaluate, and refine model performance continuously, incorporating feedback for ongoing improvement
• Recommend enhancements to algorithms and workflows to unlock new insights and operational efficiencies

Benefits

• Competitive salary range from $89,900 to $160,600 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plans such as 401(k) contributions and stock purchase options
• Incentive and recognition programs to reward performance and contributions
• Flexible remote working arrangements within the U.S.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and career growth
• Paid time off and wellness programs to support work-life balance

Equal Opportunity

UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all employees and applicants are treated with respect and dignity. We do not discriminate based on race, national origin, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.