Distinguished, Data Scientist

Walmart•Sunnyvale, CA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a hands-on, highly skilled, and experienced Distinguished Data Scientist to join our team. In this role, you will drive the organization’s data science and AI strategy, provide technical thought leadership, and design scalable AI/ML solutions that solve complex business challenges at enterprise scale. You will lead advanced analytics initiatives, develop innovative machine learning systems, and mentor teams of data scientists and engineers while fostering a culture of innovation, operational excellence, and continuous learning. About the team: The Walmart Ads Data Science team develops advanced AI, analytics, and machine learning solutions that impact millions of customers and associates globally. The team consists of software engineers, data scientists, machine learning engineers, and business experts working together to solve large-scale retail and enterprise challenges using cutting-edge technologies.As part of Walmart Global Tech, the team collaborates closely with product, business, finance, marketing, operations, and UX teams to deliver measurable business value through scalable, secure, and intelligent systems. The organization emphasizes innovation, data-driven decision-making, operational excellence, and continuous improvement while supporting Walmart’s mission of helping customers save money and live better.

Requirements

10+ years of experience in Data Science, Machine Learning, AI, or Advanced Analytics.
Extensive experience across the full machine learning lifecycle including data sourcing, feature engineering, modeling, validation, deployment, monitoring, and maintenance.
Strong expertise in statistical modeling, optimization techniques, predictive analytics, and machine learning algorithms.
Experience with advanced AI/ML methods including NLP, computer vision, neural networks, Bayesian inference, ensemble methods, and deep learning.
Hands-on experience with Python, R, SQL, Java, C++, and modern ML frameworks and libraries.
Strong knowledge of big data ecosystems, distributed data platforms, cloud technologies, and scalable model deployment architectures.
Experience with MLOps, model lifecycle management, monitoring, testing, and governance frameworks.
Expertise in data visualization tools and storytelling techniques including Tableau, Power BI, Plotly, Matplotlib, and related technologies.
Strong business acumen with the ability to translate business objectives into technical solutions and measurable outcomes.
Experience leading large-scale enterprise AI initiatives and mentoring high-performing technical teams.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence executive leadership.
Deep understanding of data governance, data quality standards, accessibility, storage, and scalability principles.
Proven ability to innovate, drive organizational change, and deliver measurable business impact at scale.
Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Economics, Analytics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Information Technology or related field and 6 years' experience in an analytics related field.
OR Master’s degree in Statistics, Economics, Analytics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Information Technology or related field and 4 years' experience in an analytics related field.
OR 8 years' experience in an analytics or related field.

Nice To Haves

Data science, machine learning, optimization models
PhD in Machine Learning, Computer Science, Information Technology, Operations Research, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Econometrics
Publications or active peer reviewer in related journals or conference
Successful completion of one or more assessments in Python, Spark, Scala, or R
Using open source frameworks (for example, scikit learn, tensorflow, torch)
We value candidates with a background in creating inclusive digital experiences, demonstrating knowledge in implementing Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 AA standards, assistive technologies, and integrating digital accessibility seamlessly.
The ideal candidate would have knowledge of accessibility best practices and join us as we continue to create accessible products and services following Walmart’s accessibility standards and guidelines for supporting an inclusive culture.

Responsibilities

Develop and drive long-term AI, analytics, and data science strategy aligned with business objectives
Lead the design, development, validation, deployment, and scaling of machine learning and optimization models
Translate complex business problems into scalable data science and AI solutions with measurable business impact
Define success metrics, KPIs, experimentation frameworks, and ROI models for AI initiatives
Build and implement advanced analytical models including predictive modeling, optimization, NLP, computer vision, and statistical learning systems
Lead exploratory data analysis, automated feature engineering, and experimentation best practices
Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, product, UX, business, and operations to deliver enterprise-scale AI solutions
Guide teams in model deployment, lifecycle management, monitoring, governance, and scalability practices
Drive innovation by leveraging new algorithms, technologies, data sources, and emerging AI methodologies
Present complex analytical insights and business recommendations to executive leadership and diverse stakeholder groups
Mentor and develop data scientists and engineers while fostering technical excellence and continuous learning
Influence organizational strategy through data-driven insights, industry expertise, and thought leadership
Ensure data governance, quality standards, accessibility, scalability, and compliance across analytical ecosystems
Build strong internal and external partnerships to advance Walmart’s AI and analytics capabilities

Benefits

Competitive compensation
Incentive awards for performance
401(k) match
Stock purchase plans
Maternity and parental leave
PTO
Comprehensive health benefits
Medical coverage
Vision coverage
Dental coverage
Financial benefits
Stock purchase
Company-paid life insurance
Paid time off benefits
PTO (including sick leave)
Parental leave
Family care leave
Bereavement
Jury duty
Voting
Short-term and long-term disability
Company discounts
Military Leave Pay
Adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement
PTO and/or PPTO that can be used for vacation, sick leave, holidays, or other purposes
Live Better U is a Walmart-paid education benefit program for full-time and part-time associates in Walmart and Sam's Club facilities. Programs range from high school completion to bachelor's degrees, including English Language Learning and short-form certificates. Tuition, books, and fees are completely paid for by Walmart.