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Director Data Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Title and Summary Director, Data Scientist Overview The AI Ops team is seeking a Director of Data Science to lead enterprise data science strategy and drive AI-powered solutions that improve ...

As a manager of a world-class data science team within a fast-evolving financial landscape, the individual will have the exciting opportunityto direct a team of data scientists on a variety of ...

Director Data Science Location: San Francisco, CA Sponsorship: Yes Relocation: Yes Industry: Data Science A Fortune 500 is looking for a proven Data Science leader to create a new Data Science team.

As a manager of a world-class data science team within a fast-evolving financial landscape, the individual will have the exciting opportunityto direct a team of data scientists on a variety of ...

As a manager of a world-class data science team within a fast-evolving financial landscape, the individual will have the exciting opportunityto direct a team of data scientists on a variety of ...

Director, Data Science

New York, NY · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

The Director, Data Science will help shape and execute data science initiatives that drive predictive, privacy-safe insights to power precision marketing and measurable outcomes. This role will ...

Director Data Science Join us at 84.51°! Director, Data Science - Supply Chain, Operations, Replenishment The Supply Chain, Operations, and Replenishment (SCORe) team is responsible for creating ...

Senior Director, Data Hub

Boston, MA · On-site

$175K - $190K/yr

Chief Data Scientist and Managing Director, Data Hub Direct Reports: Yes, 3 Role Type: Full-time FLSA Status: Exempt Location: East Coast preferred - Boston, Mid-Atlantic, or New England. Exceptional ...

Director, Data Science

New York, NY · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

The Director, Data Science will help shape and execute data science initiatives that drive predictive, privacy-safe insights to power precision marketing and measurable outcomes. This role will ...

Senior Lead, Principal Data Scientist / Associate Director - Data Science Location: NY / NJ (USA) Summary: The role is expected to serve as the primary client-facing data science lead for commercial ...

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Showing results 1-20

Director Data Scientist information

See salary details

$37.5K

$122.7K

$196.5K

How much do director data scientist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for director data scientist in the United States is $122,738.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $136,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director Data Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director Data Scientist, you need advanced expertise in statistical modeling, machine learning, and data analysis, typically supported by a graduate degree in a quantitative field and extensive industry experience. Mastery of programming languages like Python or R, experience with big data platforms such as Hadoop or Spark, and familiarity with cloud-based data solutions are essential, along with relevant certifications like Certified Analytics Professional (CAP). Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills set top candidates apart by enabling them to manage teams and translate complex insights for stakeholders. These skills are crucial for driving data-driven decision-making and ensuring the successful implementation of analytics initiatives across the organization.

How does a Director Data Scientist typically balance hands-on technical work with leadership responsibilities?

As a Director Data Scientist, you can expect to split your time between strategic leadership and hands-on data science work. While you will lead and mentor teams, set vision, and drive cross-functional initiatives, you’ll also stay involved in high-level modeling, code review, and project architecture to ensure technical excellence. The proportion of hands-on work versus leadership duties often depends on company size and project needs, but maintaining technical involvement is key to effective leadership and team credibility. This balance allows you to guide your team with up-to-date expertise while also influencing organizational data strategy.

What does a Director Data Scientist do?

A Director Data Scientist leads and manages a team of data scientists, setting the strategic direction for data-driven projects within an organization. They oversee the development and implementation of advanced analytics, machine learning models, and data solutions to solve complex business problems. In addition to technical expertise, they collaborate with other departments, mentor staff, and communicate insights to senior leadership to drive decision making. Their role bridges the gap between technical teams and business goals, ensuring that data initiatives align with organizational objectives.

What is the difference between Director Data Scientist vs Senior Data Scientist?

AspectDirector Data ScientistSenior Data Scientist
ResponsibilitiesOversees data science teams, sets strategic goals, manages projects, and aligns data initiatives with business objectives.Develops advanced models, analyzes complex data, and provides insights; focuses on technical expertise and project execution.
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Data Science, Computer Science, or related; often requires 8+ years experience; leadership skills valued.Bachelor's or Master's in relevant field; typically 5+ years experience; strong technical skills essential.
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in corporate or enterprise settings, collaborating with cross-functional teams.Hands-on technical environment, often within analytics or data science teams.

The main difference between a Director Data Scientist and a Senior Data Scientist lies in scope and leadership. The Director oversees teams and strategic initiatives, while the Senior Data Scientist focuses on technical expertise and project delivery. Both roles require strong data science skills, but the director position emphasizes management and strategic planning.

What cities are hiring for Director Data Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Director Data Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Data Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Data Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Director Data Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Data Scientist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Director Data Scientist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 15% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 33% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 50% Physical, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,738 per year, or $59 per hour.
Director, Data Scientist

Director, Data Scientist

MasterCard

O Fallon, MO

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Our Purpose

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we're helping build asustainableeconomy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactionssecure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

Title and Summary

Director, Data ScientistOverview
The AI Ops team is seeking a Director of Data Science to lead enterprise data science strategy and drive AI-powered solutions that improve reliability and performance at scale. The ideal candidate is a strategic people leader who is highly motivated, intellectually curious, analytical, and passionate about translating complex data into scalable AI and machine learning solutions.
Role
-Define and execute data science strategy aligned to AI Ops and enterprise priorities, identifying opportunities where AI and advanced analytics can improve operational resilience, performance, and decision-making
-Lead the design, development, and deployment of machine learning, deep learning, predictive modeling, and generative AI solutions that address complex operational challenges
-Establish best practices for model development, validation, governance, and lifecycle management to ensure scalable, reliable, and production-ready solutions
-Translate complex data and analytical insights into strategic recommendations that influence executive decision-making and measurable business outcomes.
-Partner across Engineering, Product, Operations, and AI/ML Engineering teams to operationalize models and enable intelligent automation across platforms.
-Build and develop high-performing data science teams, fostering innovation, accountability, technical excellence, continuous learning, and mentorship for junior team members.
All About You
-Advanced expertise in data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and predictive modeling, with proven ability to deliver enterprise-scale solutions that drive measurable business impact
-Strong experience applying machine learning, deep learning, and generative AI techniques to large-scale, complex datasets and operational challenges
-Strong foundation in applied mathematics, statistics, algorithm design, and model validation, with the ability to build scalable, robust, and business-aligned solutions
-Proven ability to translate complex data into actionable insights, define success metrics, and influence strategic business decisions through analytics
-Demonstrated success leading high-performing data science teams, mentoring junior team members, developing talent, and aligning team capabilities to long-term business and organizational strategy
-Familiarity with AI Ops, MLOps, model lifecycle management, production deployment, or highly regulated large-scale enterprise environments is highly valued
Corporate Security Responsibility
Every person working for, or on behalf of, Mastercard is responsible for information security. All activities involving access to Mastercard assets, information, and networks comes with an inherent risk to the organization and therefore, it is expected that the successful candidate for this position must:
-Abide by Mastercard's security policies and practices;
-Ensure the confidentiality and integrity of the information being accessed;
-Report any suspected information security violation or breach; and
-Complete all periodic mandatory security trainings in accordance with Mastercard's guidelines.Mastercard is a merit-based, inclusive, equal opportunity employer that considers applicants without regard to gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, disabled or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We hire the most qualified candidate for the role. In the US or Canada, if you require accommodations or assistance to complete the online application process or during the recruitment process, please contact reasonable_accommodation@mastercard.com and identify the type of accommodation or assistance you are requesting. Do not include any medical or health information in this email. The Reasonable Accommodations team will respond to your email promptly.

Corporate Security Responsibility


All activities involving access to Mastercard assets, information, and networks comes with an inherent risk to the organization and, therefore, it is expected that every person working for, or on behalf of, Mastercard is responsible for information security and must:

  • Abide by Mastercard's security policies and practices;

  • Ensure the confidentiality and integrity of the information being accessed;

  • Report any suspected information security violation or breach, and

  • Complete all periodic mandatory security trainings in accordance with Mastercard's guidelines.

In line with Mastercard's total compensation philosophy and assuming that the job will be performed in the US, the successful candidate will be offered a competitive base salary and may be eligible for an annual bonus or commissions depending on the role. The base salary offered may vary depending on multiple factors, including but not limited to location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Mastercard benefits for full time (and certain part time) employees generally include: insurance (including medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, disability, life insurance); flexible spending account and health savings account; paid leaves (including 16 weeks of new parent leave and up to 20 days of bereavement leave); 80 hours of Paid Sick and Safe Time, 25 days of vacation time and 5 personal days, pro-rated based on date of hire; 10 annual paid U.S. observed holidays; 401k with a best-in-class company match; deferred compensation for eligible roles; fitness reimbursement or on-site fitness facilities; eligibility for tuition reimbursement; and many more. Mastercard benefits for interns generally include: 56 hours of Paid Sick and Safe Time; jury duty leave; and on-site fitness facilities in some locations.

Pay Ranges

O'Fallon, Missouri: $170,000 - $281,000 USD