Head of Data Science

We are seeking a visionary and highly experienced Head of Data Science to lead the development and application of cutting-edge predictive modeling and AI-driven analytics, leveraging the latest tools and platforms. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of climate data science, sensor networks, and emissions modeling, paired with a passion for sustainability and climate action. As the Head of Data Science, you will drive innovation, strategy, and insights that harness Aclima’s unique capabilities, specifically through advanced AI, to tackle the critical and interconnected challenges of air pollution, emissions, and resource optimization.

About Aclima

Aclima is pioneering an entirely new way to monitor and respond to air pollution in communities, and track the effectiveness of focused mitigation efforts. We leverage cutting-edge sensor technology mounted on fleets of mapping vehicles to measure air pollution, greenhouse gases, and air toxics across entire cities, states, and regions at block-level resolution. Our professional analytics software, Aclima Pro, translates billions of scientific measurements into insights at the source level, providing environmental intelligence for governments, industry, and communities. Our free app delivers address-level air pollution insights for the communities we serve. Aclima is a purpose-driven technology company helping to catalyze bold climate action that protects community health, reduces emissions, and supports smart government.

Aclima is one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential companies. Other awards include Fast Company’s 50 Most Innovative Companies in the World, #1 in Data Science, Inc. Magazine’s Best in Business, a Fast Company 2022 World Changing Idea, a WEF Technology Pioneer, and one of the top 100 companies in GovTech for 2023. Aclima is headquartered in San Francisco. To learn more about Aclima, please visit https://aclima.io.

About the Role

To accomplish this mission, Aclima’s Data Science team actively focuses on the systematic exploration and analysis of a large dataset that grows by hundreds of millions of points every day. The team’s goals include sensor characterization, development of methodologies and tools to help users make better decisions, product development and contributions to environmental science.

Aclima is seeking a Head of Data Science to lead and grow our teams in this work, and in particular to help develop and increase our AI-driven approaches. As the Head of Data Science, you will be responsible for integrating advanced machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, and predictive modeling techniques into Aclima’s environmental intelligence platform. Your work will empower actionable insights for diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, businesses, and communities, and help tackle challenges such as emissions source identification, pollution trend forecasting, and resource optimization through state-of-the-art AI solutions.

In addition to leading Aclima’s Data Science team directly, you will collaborate with Aclima’s Devices, Network Operations, Engineering, and Product teams to ensure that our cutting-edge algorithms and methodologies deliver measurable impact. This role requires not only technical expertise but also exceptional leadership, communication, and strategic vision to drive innovation across the organization, particularly in the adoption and implementation of leading AI technologies.

Primary Responsibilities:

You will be responsible for leading our team of Data Analysts, Data Engineers and Applied Scientists, coordinating their work alongside our Devices, Platform and Product teams, mentoring individuals on your team and hiring staff to continue growing our capabilities. You will regularly interface directly with executive leadership to represent your team’s interests in strategic decisions. In this role, you will:

• Develop and implement advanced machine learning and deep learning models to address Aclima’s key use cases, such as emissions source identification, pollution forecasting, and optimized resource utilization, leveraging the latest AI frameworks.

• Collaborate with Devices and Network Operations teams to ensure seamless integration of AI algorithms into sensor networks, optimizing data collection for downstream analysis and actionable insights.

• Partner with the VP of Engineering and VP of Product to evaluate and integrate the latest AI tools, platforms (e.g., MLOps platforms, cloud AI services), and technologies for robust and scalable solutions tailored to Aclima’s use cases.

• Design advanced methodologies to analyze environmental data, identifying trends and opportunities that align with Aclima’s product needs, potentially utilizing generative AI for data augmentation or scenario generation.

• When needed, you will also conduct analyses and help push product development and feature releases over the finish line, ensuring AI-powered features are production-ready.

• Establish partnerships with academic institutions, government agencies, and private-sector stakeholders to advance cutting-edge AI research and practical applications in climate analytics.

• Ensure that all initiatives contribute to Aclima’s growth by delivering better, faster, and more cost-effective solutions through the strategic application of AI.

• Foster a culture of creativity and excellence, mentoring a high-performing team of data scientists and climate experts to tackle seemingly intractable problems with innovative AI solutions.

Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in Environmental Science, Data Science, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a related quantitative field.

• Demonstrated expertise in climate data science, predictive modeling, and AI-driven analytics, including deep learning, reinforcement learning, and/or generative AI techniques.

• Proficiency in integrating data science tools with IoT frameworks and sensor networks, with a strong understanding of edge AI and real-time data processing for AI applications.

• 3-5 years of experience managing a team of analysts and/or data scientists, with a proven track record of leading AI/ML initiatives.

• 5-7 years of experience with signal processing and statistical analysis, applied to large-scale, complex datasets.

• 3-5 years of experience with machine learning techniques, specifically including experience with modern AI frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) and cloud-based AI platforms (e.g., Google Cloud AI Platform, AWS SageMaker, Azure ML).

• At least 2 years experience in product development and production code maintenance, particularly for AI/ML model deployment and MLOps.

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to build cross-functional and cross-sector partnerships, effectively communicating complex AI concepts to diverse audiences.

• The ability to present complex concepts in an understandable way to a business-oriented/less technical audience.

• The ability to successfully coordinate and prioritize workload across your team to best meet business needs.

• Master’s degree in atmospheric science, physics, mathematics, statistics or in a related scientific/analytical field or equivalent experience.

• Proven ability to lead and manage data science or analytics teams in a high-impact environment, with a focus on AI innovation.

• Experience advising on technology adoption and scaling analytics frameworks to meet organizational objectives, particularly concerning AI infrastructure and governance.

• Demonstrated ability to cultivate creative solutions to complex environmental challenges using advanced analytical and AI methods.

Qualities:

• Ability to quickly develop a vision for the team and provide direct technical input to the leadership team, especially concerning AI strategy and implementation.

• Commitment to fostering an open and collaborative team culture.

• Willingness to lead code reviews and discuss technical details, including complex AI model architectures.

Pluses:

• Previous work in a scientific domain involving analysis of data obtained from physical instrumentation.

• Analytical experience working with large geospatial datasets, especially with geospatial AI techniques.

• A proven track record of hiring and retaining strong candidates across varying roles and levels of seniority, particularly those with expertise in cutting-edge AI.

• Experience with Large Language Models (LLMs) or other foundation models for data analysis or insight generation.

• Familiarity with Responsible AI principles and ethical AI development.

Why Join Us:

Mission-Driven Impact: Be part of a company dedicated to addressing one of the world’s most pressing challenges—air pollution and climate change.

Innovative Environment: Work with a team of passionate, creative, and driven individuals committed to pushing the boundaries of climate tech.

Growth Opportunities: Contribute to the development of groundbreaking products the benefit the lives and health of entire communities and play a key role in Aclima’s growth and success.

Inclusive Culture: Join a diverse and inclusive work environment that values collaboration, creativity, and continuous learning.

Pay Transparency

The base salary range for this full-time exempt position if located in the SF Bay Area, New York City, Los Angeles, Boston, Chicago, Washington DC, or Seattle metro region is $180,000 - $210,000 + equity + benefits. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location, and are informed by current market data provided by Carta Total Comp.

Within those ranges, individual pay is determined by exact region and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The hiring manager can share more about the specific salary range for your geographic region during the hiring process. Employee must continue to reside within 90 miles of location used to determine starting salary, otherwise Aclima reserves the right to make regional adjustments to pay.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Aclima is committed to diversity in our organization and building an equitable and inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds and experiences, and has proudly made the Kapor Capital Founders' Commitment. Aclima provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Aclima complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location. We especially encourage members of traditionally underrepresented communities to apply, including women, people of color, LGBTQ people, veterans, and people with disabilities. Full-time position only. Out of area candidates will be considered.

Benefits

Aside from the fulfillment of working alongside world-class colleagues to make a positive impact in people’s lives, while improving planetary and public health, Aclima offers competitive compensation, equity potential, and excellent benefits. Benefits include medical/dental/vision/Life/AD&D/LTD, 401K, wellness credits, company events, and an extraordinary culture.

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