Sr Data Scientist

PayPal is seeking a Senior Data Scientist to join the Global Collections Strategy team. The role focuses on building data-driven collections tools and strategies, with a primary emphasis on Venmo BNPL, while partnering across functions to support scalable decision-making and measurable performance.

Location and Work Model

• Location: Chicago, IL (hybrid)
• Hybrid model: 3 days in the office and 2 days from your choice of either a PayPal office or your home workspace
• Travel: 0%

Compensation

Primary location pay range: Chicago, Illinois: $130,500.00 - $193,600.00 annually

Role Summary

• Develop innovative, data-driven collections tools and strategies, primarily for Venmo BNPL, with support for other PayPal products as needed (including BNPL, Wallet, Credit Card, and Merchant Lending).
• Use SQL, Python, AI, and advanced analytics to turn complex datasets into actionable insights.
• Build scalable, reusable solutions for portfolio measurement, A/B testing, and performance analysis.
• Present findings and recommendations clearly using verbal communication and PowerPoint.
• Partner across Credit Strategy, Fraud, Second Line, and Operations to deliver customer-centric strategies that balance performance, operational efficiency, and risk.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of advanced data science models.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to understand requirements.
• Drive best practices in data science.
• Ensure data quality and integrity across processes.
• Mentor and guide junior data scientists.
• Stay current with the latest data science trends.

Required Qualifications

• Experience and education: 3+ years relevant experience and a Bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Additional education pathways: Bachelor’s degree with at least six years of relevant professional experience, or a master’s degree with at least five years of relevant experience.
• Strong data science and analytical skills, including the ability to structure and execute complex analyses and develop business cases assessing benefits, costs, risks, and trade-offs.
• Advanced proficiency in SQL and Python, with hands-on experience working with large and complex datasets.
• Proficiency in Excel, statistical analysis, data visualization, and PowerPoint.
• Experience building data-driven strategies, segmentation approaches, experimentation frameworks, or decision tools.
• Ability to apply AI and advanced analytics to create reusable solutions for portfolio measurement, A/B testing, strategy optimization, and performance analysis.
• Strong understanding of experimental design, test-and-learn methodologies, and performance measurement.
• Ability to translate analytical findings into practical business strategies and implementation requirements.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including presenting complex findings succinctly to senior management.
• Strong collaboration and influencing skills to align stakeholders across Credit Strategy, Fraud, Risk, Second Line, Operations, Product, Technology, and Legal and Compliance.
• Proactive and adaptable work style, including effectiveness under pressure and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to work independently, identify and resolve issues, and recommend improvements to strategies, policies, and processes.

Skills and Tools

Technologies: SQL, Python, AI, Excel, PowerPoint

Benefits

• Generous paid time off
• Healthcare coverage for you and your family
• Resources to create financial security
• Resources to support your mental health
• Annual performance bonus, equity, or other incentive compensation, as applicable
• Comprehensive, choice-based programs supporting physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing

Company Information

• Subsidiary: PayPal
• Primary location: Chicago, Illinois
• Additional locations: None currently assigned

Application and Safety Notice

• PayPal does not charge candidates any fees for courses, applications, resume reviews, interviews, background checks, or onboarding.
• When applying directly, PayPal will not ask for passwords, one-time passcodes (OTP), or verification codes.
• Application communications will come from official PayPal email domains.
• If you suspect fraudulent activity, report it immediately.