Data Scientist - Remote

About The CompanyOptum Tech is a global leader in health care innovation. Our teams develop cutting‑edge solutions that help people live healthier lives and help make the health system work better for everyone. From advanced data analytics and AI to cybersecurity, we use innovative approaches to solve some of health care's most complex challenges. Your contributions here have the potential to change lives. Ready to build the next breakthrough? Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together.About The RoleWe are seeking a seasoned Principal Data Scientist to lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced machine learning solutions. In this pivotal role, you will define end‑to‑end machine learning architecture, select appropriate tools and frameworks, drive proof‑of‑concept initiatives, and guide engineering teams in deploying scalable AI services. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in statistics, deep learning, and generative AI, along with hands-on cloud expertise and exceptional communication skills. You will be responsible for designing and building production-grade machine learning and GenAI solutions, providing technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers without formal people management responsibilities.This role offers the flexibility to work remotely from anywhere within the U.S., with a preference for candidates based in Minnesota. For those in the Minneapolis or Washington, D.C. areas, a minimum of four days per week in the office is required. You will have the opportunity to tackle complex challenges and contribute to innovative healthcare solutions that impact millions of lives.Qualifications10+ years of experience designing, building, and deploying production machine learning solutionsDeep expertise in either Natural Language Processing (NLP) or Computer Vision, with extensive hands-on solution ownership in that domainStrong knowledge of core ML and statistical methods including supervised/unsupervised learning, regression, classification, clustering, time series analysis, and Bayesian modelingProven experience with traditional ML and deep learning, demonstrated through substantive work prior to or alongside recent GenAI initiativesExperience with cloud ML services and infrastructure design on at least one major cloud platform (AWS, Azure, or GCP)Recent hands-on experience (within the last three years) building GenAI applications using LLM frameworks such as LangChain and/or LangGraphProficiency in programming with Python and ML frameworks like PyTorch and TensorFlowFamiliarity with big data technologies including Apache Spark, Hadoop, or DaskAbility to define cloud-native ML infrastructure utilizing containerization (Docker/Kubernetes), ML pipelines (SageMaker, Vertex AI, Azure ML), and MLOps practices (CI/CD, model registry, monitoring)Deep learning expertise with frameworks such as TensorFlow, Keras, or PyTorchExperience building or fine-tuning generative models like GPT, BERT, Stable Diffusion, or custom architecturesStrong foundation in probability, linear algebra, and statistical inferenceProven ability to move models from research or proof-of-concept into scalable production environmentsExcellent problem-solving skills and strong verbal and written communication abilitiesResponsibilitiesLead the solution architecture and hands-on development of machine learning and generative AI applicationsDesign, build, and deploy scalable, production-grade AI solutions utilizing traditional ML, deep learning, and modern large language modelsBalance architectural leadership with direct execution across complex AI/ML initiativesProvide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers through collaboration, code reviews, and design reviewsPartner closely with engineering, product, and cross-functional teams to deliver impactful AI solutions aligned with enterprise standardsDesign, develop, and deploy AI-powered solutions to address complex business challengesLead proof-of-concept experiments in generative AI, including transformers, GANs, and diffusion models, to innovate solutions for business problemsEstablish best practices for model governance, versioning, reproducibility, and securityCollaborate with data engineers, data scientists, software engineers, and product managers to translate business requirements into technical solutionsEvaluate emerging tools, libraries, and research to maintain a competitive edge and foster innovationDocument architecture designs, conduct design reviews, and present technical proposals to stakeholdersBenefitsComprehensive health and wellness benefits packageIncentive and recognition programsEquity stock purchase options401(k) retirement plan contributionsFlexible remote work arrangements with location-specific requirementsOpportunities for professional development and career growthSupportive and innovative work environmentEqual OpportunityUnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable laws. We support diversity and equal opportunity in the workplace and believe that a diverse team enhances our ability to serve our members and communities effectively.