Principal Data Scientist (EdTech)

TL;DR

Principal Data Scientist (EdTech): Leading the technical strategy and delivery of predictive AI/ML initiatives for a student engagement platform with an accent on end-to-end ownership of model development, data engineering, and production MLOps. Focus on building scalable predictive engines, driving cross-functional alignment, and delivering measurable improvements in student retention and enrollment outcomes.

Location: Must be based in the US

Company

hirify.global is an education technology company providing support and expertise to over 100 universities to help grow workforce-focused online degree programs.

What you will do

• Lead end-to-end AI/ML initiatives from scoping and technical design to production deployment and outcome measurement.
• Architect and maintain scalable data pipelines, feature stores, and production infrastructure as the principal data engineer.
• Develop and productionize predictive models for churn risk, engagement propensity, and success likelihood.
• Drive cross-functional alignment with Product, Engineering, and CX teams to translate technical insights into business impact.
• Mentor data scientists and engineers while establishing technical standards for data lineage, quality, and explainability.
• Design and execute A/B testing programs to validate model-driven impact on student outcomes.

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in applied machine learning or data science in complex behavioral domains.
• Deep expertise in Python, SQL, and ML libraries like scikit-learn, XGBoost, TensorFlow, or PyTorch.
• Proven track record of operating as a principal-level technical leader in a cross-functional environment.
• Hands-on experience with MLOps stacks including Databricks, MLFlow, dbt, and Dagster or Airflow.
• Proficiency in production automation, CI/CD, infrastructure-as-code (Terraform), and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Must be authorized to work in the US and capable of leading initiatives independently.

Nice to have

• PhD in a technical discipline.
• Experience in higher education or student success platforms.
• Familiarity with human-in-the-loop AI systems and responsible ML practices.

Culture & Benefits

• Opportunity to work on mission-driven technology that directly impacts student success.
• Collaborative environment working across Product, Engineering, and Partnership teams.
• Focus on continuous learning and adoption of cutting-edge AI-assisted coding tools.
• Commitment to diversity and inclusion as an equal-opportunity employer.