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Computer Science Opt Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Data Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $166K/yr

Master's/PhD in Statistics, Data Science, Applied Math, Computer Science, Actuarial Science, or ... The company will not support the STEM OPT I-983 Training Plan endorsement for this position.

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Computer Science Opt information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$21K

$71.5K

$139.6K

How much do computer science opt jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer science opt in Chicago, IL is $71,473.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,109.00 and $102,642.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Computer Science Opt position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Science OPT (Optional Practical Training participant), you typically need a solid understanding of programming languages, algorithms, and data structures, usually demonstrated through a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with software development tools, version control systems like Git, and possibly certifications in specialized areas such as cloud computing or cybersecurity can be advantageous. Excellent problem-solving abilities, teamwork, adaptability, and strong communication skills make candidates stand out. These competencies enable you to contribute effectively to technical projects, smoothly integrate into diverse workplace environments, and adapt to rapidly evolving technology demands.

What is a Computer Science OPT job?

A Computer Science OPT (Optional Practical Training) job is a temporary employment opportunity for international students on an F-1 visa who have completed or are pursuing a degree in computer science. It allows them to gain practical work experience related to their field of study in the U.S. OPT can be up to 12 months, with an additional 24-month extension for students in STEM fields. These jobs typically include roles like software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and IT support. Employers hiring OPT candidates must comply with specific visa regulations.

What types of projects or tasks can a Computer Science OPT typically expect to work on during their employment?

As a Computer Science OPT, you'll often be assigned to support ongoing software development, quality assurance, or data analysis projects under the guidance of experienced team members. Daily tasks may include coding, debugging, participating in code reviews, assisting with testing or deployments, and collaborating on technical documentation. Depending on the company's focus, you might also have the chance to work on web development, artificial intelligence, or cloud-based solutions. These experiences not only build your technical skills but also provide valuable exposure to real-world development cycles and team collaboration, enhancing your long-term career prospects in the tech industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Science Opt jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Computer Science Opt jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Science Opt jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Science Opt jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Computer Science Opt job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 18% Full Time, 67% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,473 per year, or $34.4 per hour.
Director of Data Science, Actuarial Modeling

Director of Data Science, Actuarial Modeling

The Hartford

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

Full-time

Posted yesterday


The Hartford rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 260 rated insurance


Job description

Dir & Data Scientist - GD06BE

We're determined to make a difference and are proud to be an insurance company that goes well beyond coverages and policies. Working here means having every opportunity to achieve your goals - and to help others accomplish theirs, too. Join our team as we help shape the future.

The Hartfordseeks a Director & Data Scientist withinEmployee Benefitsto develop statistical and machine learning solutionssupporting actuarial pricing and reserving modeling.

In this role, you will be a hands-on technical expert contributing across the full model lifecycle-partnering closely with actuarial, business, and engineering stakeholders to understand business strategies and translate them into robust, scalable modeling solutions. You will design, develop, implement, and evolve advanced analytics and machine learning models using modern technologies, MLOps practices, and Agile delivery frameworks.

This cutting-edge, forward-focused organization offers the opportunity to work autonomously on high-impact problems, influence technical and analytical decisions, collaborate deeply with crossfunctional partners, and gain strong visibility as we focus on continuous, value-driven data and model delivery.

This role will have a Hybrid work schedule, with the expectation of working in an office (Columbus, OH, Chicago, IL, Hartford, CT or Charlotte, NC) 3 days a week (Tuesday through Thursday).

Responsibilities:

  • Develop, test,validate, andmaintainaportfolioof rating modelsfor theEmployee Benefits class plans inLong-TermDisability, Short-Term Disability, and Life

  • Continuouslypartner with Actuarial and Data teams tomonitorand manage the End-to-End lifecycle of the rating models and underlying data which feeds them

  • Lead cross-functional projects that include the creation of statistical models and machine learning techniques to achieve financialobjectives, solve business problems, andidentifylong-term opportunities thatenhance actuarial modeling.

  • Collaborate and partner with business stakeholders in a way that supports the vision and sustains a culture that treats analytics as a corporate asset.

  • Advance the department's capabilities by creating and deploying long-term tools to continually evolve the practice of data science, with an ability to see the end-to-end solution.

  • Develop strategies to achieve targeted businessobjectives. Implement these strategies and follow through to successfulconclusion.

  • Remain current on research techniques and become familiar withstate-of-the-arttools applicable to your function.

  • Participate in the talent management process for hiring, onboarding,trainingand development of staff.

  • Collaborate with your leader to providetimelyfeedback on development and opportunities for your team.

  • Learn/bring best practices to guide the direction of our Data Science and Data Engineering workflows.

Qualifications:

  • 8+ years of relevant experience recommended

  • Master's or Ph.D. in Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Quantitative Economics, Actuarial Science, Data Science, Computer Science, or a similar analytical field, or progress towards a relevant professional designation

  • Expertiseinactuarialmodeling;experience in EmployeeBenefits pricing is a plus.

  • Experience with mentoring Data Scientists and providing guidance through model development

  • Expertisein statistical modeling, inference, and building machine learning algorithms in Python

  • Expertisein SQL and navigating databases to extract relevant attributes

  • Expertisein Unix and Git

  • Expertisein the end-to-end modeling lifecycle, from requirements gathering tomonitoringand validation

  • Experience building modeling solutions in cloud-native environments, such asSagemaker, a plus

  • Able to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical teams

  • Able to translate complex technical topics into business solutions and strategies as well as turn business requirements into a technical solution

  • Experience with leading project execution and driving change to core business processes through the innovative use of quantitative techniques

This role will have a Hybrid work schedule, with the expectation of working in an office (Columbus, OH, Chicago, IL, Hartford, CT or Charlotte, NC) 3 days a week (Tuesday through Thursday).

Candidates must be authorized to work in the US without company sponsorship. The company will not support the STEM OPT I-983 Training Plan endorsement for this position.

Candidate must be authorized to work in the US without company sponsorship.The company will not support the STEM OPT I-983 Training Plan endorsement for this position.

Compensation

The listed annualized base pay range is primarily based on analysis of similar positions in the external market. Actual base pay could vary and may be above or below the listed range based on factors including but not limited to performance, proficiency and demonstration of competencies required for the role. The base pay is just one component of The Hartford's total compensation package for employees. Other rewards may include short-term or annual bonuses, long-term incentives, and on-the-spot recognition. The annualized base pay range for this role is:

$138,000 - $207,000

Equal Opportunity Employer/Sex/Race/Color/Veterans/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity or Expression/Religion/Age

About Us|Our Culture|What It's Like to Work Here|Perks & Benefits


What The Hartford employees say

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About Hartford

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Hartford Financial Services Group, widely recognized as The Hartford, is a renowned company based in Hartford, CT, US. Established in 1810, it has evolved into an industry leader in the insurance and financial services sector, proudly serving more than one million businesses in the US. The Hartford is committed to offering a gamut of insurance products that include homeowners, automobile, and business insurance as well as employee benefits and mutual funds. The company’s core values revolve around customer-focused innovations, diversity and inclusion, and ethical dealings that have earned them a customer-centric reputation. This shapes their mission which revolves around aiding their clients to overcome unforeseen obstacles and enhancing their wealth over time. Among the company's noted accomplishments is being consistently listed among the World's Most Ethical Companies, a testament to their unwavering commitment towards responsible business practices.

Industry

Finance and insurance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Hartford, CT, US

Year founded

1810

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