Data Scientist- AI

About The Company

Citizens is a leading financial institution committed to delivering innovative banking solutions and exceptional customer service. With a strong presence in the banking industry, Citizens leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance operational efficiency and provide tailored financial products. The organization values diversity, inclusion, and continuous learning, fostering a collaborative environment where employees can thrive and contribute to meaningful change in the financial landscape.

About The Role

As a Principal Data Scientist, you will play a pivotal role in driving the strategic application of Generative AI technologies within the bank. Your expertise will be instrumental in harnessing Large Language Models (LLMs) to foster innovation, streamline processes, and improve both customer and employee experiences. This leadership position requires a deep understanding of natural language processing (NLP), hands-on experience with Generative AI tools, and the ability to guide cross-functional teams in responsibly integrating these advanced technologies into core business operations. You will collaborate closely with business units, risk, compliance, and technology teams to identify high-impact AI use cases, develop scalable solutions, and ensure ethical AI deployment aligned with regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in data science, machine learning, or applied AI.
• Proven experience applying Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) in production or pilot environments.
• Strong proficiency in Python programming language.
• Experience with NLP libraries and frameworks such as LangChain, Autogen, Strands, etc.
• Deep understanding of NLP techniques and their practical applications.
• Experience working with unstructured data and integrating AI solutions into business workflows.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, including technical writing and stakeholder engagement.
• Master’s or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field.

Preferred qualifications include experience with prompt engineering, model evaluation, LLM orchestration, familiarity with cloud platforms and MLOps tools, and experience working with model validation teams and regulators.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of solutions utilizing LLMs and Generative AI tools to optimize complex workflows and processes.
• Partner with business, risk, compliance, and technology teams to identify high-impact AI use cases and ensure responsible deployment.
• Guide data preparation efforts, including sourcing, cleaning, and structuring data for effective LLM input and evaluation.
• Evaluate model performance, conduct error analysis, and refine prompt engineering and fine-tuning strategies.
• Stay informed about emerging trends in Generative AI and NLP, assessing their relevance to banking applications.
• Mentor junior data scientists and promote best practices for AI adoption across the organization.
• Communicate complex technical concepts and findings clearly to executive stakeholders, regulators, and cross-functional teams.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Hybrid work environment with a flexible schedule (4 days onsite, 1 day remote).
• Inclusive and supportive workplace culture fostering innovation and collaboration.
• Access to cutting-edge tools and technologies in AI and data science.
• Health, dental, vision, and wellness programs.

Equal Opportunity

Citizens, its parent, subsidiaries, and related companies (Citizens) are committed to providing equal employment and advancement opportunities to all colleagues and applicants without regard to age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local laws.