Principal Data Scientist- Generative AI

DescriptionAs a Principal Data Scientist, you will lead the strategic application of Generative AI across the bank, leveraging Large Language Models (LLMs) to drive innovation, improve operational efficiency, and enhance customer and employee experiences. This role requires deep expertise in NLP, hands-on experience with Generative AI tools, and the ability to guide teams in responsibly integrating these technologies into business processes.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the design and implementation of solutions using LLMs and Generative AI tools for complex workflows and processes.Partner with business, risk, compliance, and technology teams to identify high-impact use cases and ensure responsible AI deployment.Guide data preparation efforts, including sourcing, cleaning, and structuring data for LLM input and evaluation.Evaluate model performance, conduct error analysis, and iterate on prompt engineering and fine-tuning strategies where applicable.Stay ahead of emerging trends in Generative AI and NLP, and assess their relevance to banking applications.Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the development of best practices for AI adoption across the organization.Communicate technical concepts and findings clearly to executive stakeholders, regulators, and cross-functional teams.QualificationsRequired : 7+ years of experience in data science, machine learning, or applied AI.Proven experience applying Generative AI and LLMs in production or pilot environments.Strong proficiency in Python and experience with NLP libraries and frameworks (e.g., 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.Strong communication and leadership skills, including technical writing and stakeholder engagement.Preferred : Experience with prompt engineering, model evaluation, and LLM orchestration.Familiarity with cloud platforms and MLOps tools.Experience interacting with model validation teams and regulators.EducationRequired :  Master’s or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field.Hours & Work ScheduleHours per Week : 40Work Schedule : Monday - FridayHybrid : 4 days on site at a Citizens Corporate Office, 1 day remote#LI-Citizens1

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Equal Employment OpportunityCitizens, its parent, subsidiaries, and related companies (Citizens) provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all colleagues and applicants for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, citizenship, physical or mental disability, perceived disability or history or record of a disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, genetic characteristic, marital or domestic partner status, victim of domestic violence, family status / parenthood, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, pregnancy / childbirth / lactation, colleague’s or a dependent’s reproductive health decision making, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or any other category protected by federal, state and / or local laws. At Citizens, we are committed to fostering an inclusive culture that enables all colleagues to bring their best selves to work every day and everyone is expected to be treated with respect and professionalism. Employment decisions are based solely on merit, qualifications, performance and capability.Why Work for UsAt Citizens, you'll find a customer-centric culture built around helping our customers and giving back to our local communities. When you join our team, you are part of a supportive and collaborative workforce, with access to training and tools to accelerate your potential and maximize your career growth Background Check Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the candidate successfully passing a background check, which may include initial credit, motor vehicle record, public record, prior employment verification, and criminal background checks. Results of the background check are individually reviewed based upon legal requirements imposed by our regulators and with consideration of the nature and gravity of the background history and the job offered. Any offer of employment will include further information.