Principal, Data Scientist (Pricing)

Walmart•Bentonville, AR

2d•$110,000 - $286,000•Onsite

About The Position

Walmart Global Tech is seeking a talented and experienced Principal Data Scientist specializing in Pricing Algorithms to lead our efforts in developing sophisticated pricing models and strategies. As a Principal Data Scientist, you will play a critical role in driving innovation and optimizing revenue through the application of advanced statistical and machine learning techniques. You will lead a team of data scientists and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to develop and implement pricing algorithms that maximize profitability and drive business growth. The Applied AI team researches and develops advanced algorithms that power strategic decision-making across pricing, markdown optimization, price recommendations, price elasticity, assortment optimization, supply chain, replenishment, and store layout. You will work closely with data scientists, machine learning engineers, operations research scientists, and data analysts, while collaborating with business leaders, product managers, pricing strategists, software engineers, and data engineers to build AI-driven solutions at enterprise scale. Our work combines techniques from forecasting, optimization, operations research, machine learning (classical ML, deep learning, reinforcement learning), causal inference, experimentation, and statistics to solve complex pricing and retail challenges. We develop innovative AI solutions that directly influence business strategy and customer experience, and our research is regularly published in top-tier conferences and journals.

Requirements

Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Economics, or related field.
Extensive experience (8+ years) in data science, machine learning, and statistical analysis, with a focus on pricing optimization.
Proven track record of building and deploying pricing algorithms/models in a real-world setting.
Expertise in programming languages such as Python, R, or Scala for data analysis and model development.
Strong understanding of pricing concepts, methodologies, and strategies in diverse industries.
Deep knowledge of machine learning algorithms and techniques, with hands-on experience in applying them to pricing problems.
Excellent communication and leadership skills with the ability to influence and inspire cross-functional teams.
Demonstrated ability to drive projects from conception to completion in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship.

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)
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.
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

Provide strategic leadership and technical expertise in the development and implementation of pricing algorithms and models.
Define the vision, roadmap, and priorities for pricing optimization initiatives.
Lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced pricing algorithms using state-of-the-art machine learning techniques, including but not limited to regression analysis, demand forecasting, dynamic pricing, and reinforcement learning.
Conduct thorough code reviews of pricing algorithms and related software components developed by the team. Ensure adherence to best practices, coding standards, and optimization techniques.
Provide constructive feedback and mentorship to team members to enhance code quality and maintainability.
Utilize large datasets to conduct in-depth analysis of customer behavior, market dynamics, and competitive pricing strategies.
Extract actionable insights to inform pricing decisions and strategy formulation.
Oversee the evaluation, validation, and optimization of pricing models to ensure accuracy, reliability, and performance.
Implement rigorous testing methodologies to assess model effectiveness and robustness.
Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including product management, engineering, marketing, and finance to understand business objectives, requirements, and constraints.
Work collaboratively to translate business needs into data-driven pricing solutions.
Stay abreast of industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in pricing analytics, data science, and machine learning.
Provide thought leadership and guidance on pricing strategy, methodologies, and implementation best practices.
Document methodologies, findings, and recommendations in clear and concise manner.
Communicate complex technical concepts and insights to non-technical stakeholders through presentations, reports, and dashboards.
Mentor junior team members and provide guidance on technical and methodological aspects of pricing analytics and data science.
Foster a culture of learning and knowledge sharing within the team.

Benefits

Incentive awards for performance
401(k) match
Stock purchase plan
Paid maternity and parental leave
PTO
Multiple health plans
Competitive pay
Performance-based bonus awards
Medical coverage
Vision coverage
Dental coverage
Company-paid life insurance
Paid time off (including sick leave)
Parental leave
Family care leave
Bereavement leave
Jury duty leave
Voting leave
Short-term disability
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
Walmart-paid education benefit program (Live better U) for full-time and part-time associates
Tuition, books, and fees are completely paid for by Walmart for education benefit program