About the Role
We are seeking a Head of Data Science to join a stealth-mode AI startup that is building groundbreaking intelligence solutions. This is a unique opportunity to lead the data function from the ground up in a high-potential environment. As the inaugural Head of Data Science, you will report directly to the Founder/CEO and define the AI/data strategy while building a world-class team.
What You'll Do
- Shape and execute the full data science and machine learning roadmap, from foundational models to advanced production AI systems.
- Architect scalable data infrastructure, pipelines, and experimentation frameworks to support cutting-edge AI development.
- Collaborate closely with the founder on technical vision, rapid prototyping, model iteration, and product direction.
- Lead talent acquisition and team building: hire, mentor, and scale a data science/ML organization as the company grows.
- Ensure best practices around model performance, ethical AI, bias mitigation, explainability, and data governance/security.
- Drive data-informed decisions that accelerate innovation across engineering, product, and business priorities.
Requirements
- 7+ years in data science/machine learning, with 3+ years in senior/leadership roles at startups, AI labs, or high-growth tech companies.
- Deep hands-on experience building and deploying production-grade ML/AI systems.
- Strong technical fluency in Python, SQL, cloud platforms (AWS/GCP/Azure), and modern frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, JAX).
- Proven track record of scaling data/ML teams from early stage through growth phases.
- Thrives in ambiguity and fast iteration; excellent at distilling complex technical concepts.
- Genuine excitement for frontier AI and building transformative technologies.
Nice to Have
- Experience with generative AI, reinforcement learning, multimodal systems, or agentic architectures.
- Familiarity with MLOps tools.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary of $250K–$300K+ base.
- Significant equity in a high-potential startup.
- Comprehensive relocation support for candidates willing to move to Austin.
- Opportunity to work in a thriving AI/tech ecosystem.
- High autonomy in a fast-paced environment.
This Head of Data Science role offers a unique opportunity to lead a data function in a stealth-mode AI startup with significant equity and a competitive salary.
Who Will Succeed Here
Expert in Python and experience with frameworks like PyTorch and TensorFlow for developing advanced AI models, with a proven track record of deploying machine learning solutions in production environments using MLOps methodologies.
Strong strategic mindset with the ability to define and execute data-driven strategies in a fully remote setting, demonstrating self-motivation and effective time management while leading a distributed team.
Deep understanding of cloud platforms such as AWS, GCP, and Azure for scalable data infrastructure, equipped with hands-on experience in data pipeline development and optimization for large datasets.
Learning Resources
Career Path
Market Overview
Skills & Requirements
Domain Trends
Industry News
Loading latest industry news...
Finding relevant articles from the last 6 months