Principal Data Scientist (Remote)

Who is Trace3?

Trace3 is a leading Transformative IT Authority, providing unique technology solutions and consulting services to our clients. Equipped with elite engineering and dynamic innovation, we empower IT executives and their organizations to achieve competitive advantage through a process of Integrate, Automate, Innovate.

Our culture at Trace3 embodies the spirit of a startup with the advantage of a scalable business. Employees can grow their career and have fun while doing it!

Trace3 is headquartered in Irvine, California. We employ more than 1,200 people all over the United States. Our major field office locations include Denver, Indianapolis, Grand Rapids, Lexington, Los Angeles, Louisville, Texas, San Francisco.  

Ready to discover the possibilities that live in technology?

 

Come Join Us!

Street-Smart - Thriving in Dynamic Times

We are flexible and resilient in a fast-changing environment. We continuously innovate and drive constructive change while keeping a focus on the “big picture.” We exercise sound business judgment in making high-quality decisions in a timely and cost-effective manner. We are highly creative and can dig deep within ourselves to find positive solutions to different problems.

Juice - The “Stuff” it takes to be a Needle Mover

We get things done and drive results. We lead without a title, empowering others through a can-do attitude. We look forward to the goal, mentally mapping out every checkpoint on the pathway to success, and visualizing what the final destination looks and feels like.

Teamwork - Humble, Hungry and Smart

We are humble individuals who understand how our job impacts the company's mission. We treat others with respect, admit mistakes, give credit where it’s due and demonstrate transparency. We “bring the weather” by exhibiting positive leadership and solution-focused thinking. We hug people in their trials, struggles, and failures – not just their success. We appreciate the individuality of the people around us.

 

JOB SUMMARY:

As a Principal Data Scientist at Trace3, you will lead advanced AI pre-sales opportunities, cutting-edge research, and novel algorithm development. You are comfortable experimenting with cutting-edge approaches, developing proprietary models that solve complex challenges, and apply expertise beyond machine learning, such as prescriptive modeling/optimization, simulations, and causality.

Your role will involve strategic execution, requiring knowledge of scientific processes and cutting-edge research, and the ability and comfort in navigating open-ended complex problems. You will serve as a trusted advisor to our clients, helping them navigate their AI journey while delivering measurable business value

This role requires a strong foundation in data science methodologies, business process optimization, and consultative problem-solving.

SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Lead advanced AI opportunities, cutting-edge research, and advanced algorithm development.
• Lead process improvement initiatives using data-driven approaches, including workflow optimization and operational efficiency analysis.
• Serve as a consultant and executive peer, providing strategic execution and guidance.
• Transform business requirements into structured analytical approaches, ensuring alignment with client objectives.
• Create and implement machine learning/algorithmic solutions for business processes.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across industries to solve complex business challenges through data-driven approaches and innovative analytical solutions.
• Deliver compelling presentations and workshops to stakeholders, translating technical concepts into business value.
• Guide clients in developing AI-driven strategies that align with their organizational goals.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization and automation through advanced analytics.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to integrate models and solutions into production environments.
• Provide mentorship and leadership within the AI Consulting and Technology team, elevating the growth and maturation of Trace3’s data science and AI capabilities.
• Provide thought leadership and contribute to blogs, whitepapers, and internal training initiatives.
• Provide guidance and contribute to the growth of Trace3’s internal Center of AI.
• Lead discovery workshops and requirements gathering sessions with clients to understand their business challenges.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Economics, or a related field
• 6+ years of experience in data science and business consulting related roles, with demonstrated success in delivering end-to-end solutions.
• Experience with cloud platforms (Microsoft Azure, AWS, GCP) and data/ML platforms (ex. Databricks, DataRobot, SageMaker, Azure Machine Learning, Jupyter, Domino).
• Strong foundation in scientific processes and applying cutting-edge methods to solve business problems.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R for exploratory analysis, feature engineering, model development, and external API integration.
• Experience with machine learning libraries and frameworks (e.g. scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Experience with process modeling, simulation, and optimization techniques.
• Expertise in statistical analysis tools and machine learning frameworks.
• Demonstrated ability to evaluate ideas and qualify them as AI-ready use cases.
• Strong project management skills with ability to lead complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives.
• Understanding of generative AI solution concepts, such as Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG), fine-tuning, and agentic workflows.
• Excellence in business communication and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated success in consulting environments with direct client interaction.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Master’s degree or Ph.D in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Economics, or a related field.
• Domain knowledge in a specific industry vertical (manufacturing, healthcare, finance, etc.)
• Knowledge of process improvement methodologies (Six Sigma, Lean, etc.)
• Experience with operations research and optimization techniques (linear optimization, MIP, etc.)
• Experience with business intelligence and visualization tools
• Understanding of change management principles and organizational dynamics
• Knowledge of AI governance and ethical considerations in business AI applications
• Experience leading process improvement initiatives using AI
• Familiarity with agile methodologies and iterative solution development
• Experience in consulting roles

Actual salary will be based on a variety of factors, including location, experience, skill set, performance, licensure and certification, and business needs. The range for this position in other geographic locations may differ. Certain positions may also be eligible for variable incentive compensation, such as bonuses or commissions, that is not included in the base salary.Estimated Pay Range$200,000—$240,000 USD

The Perks:

• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans for you and your dependents
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match, 529 College Savings Plan, Health Savings Account, Life Insurance, and Long-Term Disability
• Competitive Compensation
• Training and development programs
• Stocked kitchen with snacks and beverages
• Collaborative and cool culture
• Work-life balance and generous paid time off

 

***To all recruitment agencies: Trace3 does not accept unsolicited agency resumes/CVs. Please do not forward resumes/CVs to our careers email addresses, Trace3 employees or any other company location. Trace3 is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/CVs.