About the Role
We are seeking a visionary Head of Data Science to join our stealth-mode AI startup. This is a unique opportunity to lead the data function from the ground up and drive innovation in next-generation intelligence solutions. As the inaugural Head of Data Science, you will report directly to the Founder/CEO and play a pivotal role in shaping our AI/data strategy.
What You'll Do
- Shape and execute the full data science & ML roadmap, from foundational models to advanced production AI systems.
- Architect scalable data infrastructure, pipelines, and experimentation frameworks to support cutting-edge AI development.
- Collaborate intimately with the founder on technical vision, rapid prototyping, model iteration, and product direction.
- Lead talent acquisition and team building: hire, mentor, and scale a world-class data science/ML organization as the company grows.
- Ensure rigorous best practices around model performance, ethical AI, bias mitigation, explainability, and data governance/security.
- Drive data-informed decisions that accelerate innovation across engineering, product, and business priorities.
Requirements
- 7+ years in data science/machine learning, with 3+ years in senior/leadership roles at startups, AI labs, or high-growth tech companies.
- Deep hands-on experience building and deploying production-grade ML/AI systems (e.g., large-scale models, generative AI, reinforcement learning, multimodal systems, or agentic architectures).
- Strong technical fluency: Python, SQL, cloud platforms (AWS/GCP/Azure), modern frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, JAX, etc.), and MLOps tools.
- Proven track record scaling data/ML teams from early stage (0–few) through growth phases, including direct hiring and culture-setting experience.
- Thrives in ambiguity and fast iteration; excellent at distilling complex technical concepts for founder/exec alignment.
- Genuine excitement for frontier AI and building transformative technologies from the ground floor.
Nice to Have
- Experience with generative AI and reinforcement learning.
- Familiarity with data governance and ethical AI practices.
- Previous experience in a stealth-mode startup environment.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary range of $250K–$300K+ base.
- Significant equity in a high-potential startup.
- Comprehensive relocation package to help you settle in Austin, TX.
- Opportunity to work in a thriving AI/tech ecosystem with access to top talent.
- High-autonomy environment with the chance to make a significant impact.
This role offers a unique opportunity to lead data science at a pioneering AI startup, with a competitive salary and significant equity.
Who Will Succeed Here
Deep expertise in Python and experience with machine learning frameworks like PyTorch and TensorFlow, allowing for the development of robust AI models and algorithms.
A strong background in cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure) and MLOps practices to efficiently deploy and manage machine learning models in a scalable manner, particularly in a fully remote work environment.
Proven leadership experience in building and mentoring data science teams, with a strategic mindset to align data initiatives with business goals, especially in a fast-paced startup culture.
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