lead data scientist - Data & Analytics (Seattle, WA)

Starbucks • Seattle, WA

5d • Onsite

About The Position

From the beginning, Starbucks set out to be a different kind of company. One that not only celebrated coffee and the rich tradition, but that also brought a feeling of connection. We are known for developing extraordinary leaders who share this passion and are guided by their service to others.
As a Lead Data Scientist on the Global Supply Chain Data Science team, you will lead the development of advanced forecasting models and optimization algorithms that shape supply chain and inventory decisions. Your work will directly impact coffeehouses, transportation, distribution centers, and suppliers at scale.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelors Degree with a concentration in a quantitative discipline. Masters preferred
• 5+ years of progressive experience in data science, with a proven track record of end-to-end data product and model deployment that delivers measurable business impact.
• 5+ years of experience in machine learning and statistical techniques, including regression, classification, clustering, and causal inference.
• Advanced proficiency in Python, SQL, and cloud-based analytics platforms (e.g., Databricks, Azure), with experience developing production-grade data pipelines and model outputs.
• Excellent communication and data storytelling skills, with the ability to translate complex methodologies into clear, actionable insights. Translate business challenges into research questions, and present findings to technical and non-technical audiences
• Experience building in-house production systems in complex and data-rich domains.
• Mentoring experience

Nice To Haves

• Experience in building forecasting models for time series or operational planning
• Experience in optimization techniques such as linear programming, mixed-integer programming, or heuristic algorithms for decision support
• Background with PySpark and Databricks for distributed data processing and scalable analytics in cloud environments
• Advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in Statistics, Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, or related quantitative field.

Responsibilities

• Own the end-to-end lifecycle of AI/ML solutions, from ideation and prototyping to production deployment, ensuring robust offline evaluation and real-time performance monitoring.
• Work closely with product and internal users. You will understand business initiatives, challenges, questions, and transform user requirements into technical solutions.
• Contribute to project planning, and assist the team with estimations, timelines, and prioritization. Assists in developing the analytical roadmap, data, and technology strategy.
• Guide data scientists and senior data scientists in advanced analytics, optimization techniques, and business impact storytelling.
• Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the data science organization.

Benefits

• medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, and other voluntary insurance benefits
• short-term and long-term disability, paid parental leave, family expansion reimbursement, paid vacation from date of hire, sick time (accrued at 1 hour for every 25 hours worked), eight paid holidays, and two personal days per year
• participation in a 401(k) retirement plan with employer match, a discounted company stock program (S.I.P.), Starbucks equity program (Bean Stock), incentivized emergency savings, and financial well-being tools
• 100%25 upfront tuition coverage for a first-time bachelor’s degree through Arizona State University’s online program via the Starbucks College Achievement Plan, student loan management resources, and access to other educational opportunities
• backup care and DACA reimbursement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level