Data Science Intern, Algorithms (Summer 2027 - Toronto)
About this role
Graduate students who enjoy solving complex mathematical problems using data will thrive in this algorithms internship. The data science team at Lyft builds the mathematical models that power core platform services across optimization, prediction, modeling, inference, transportation, and mapping. Interns focus on specialties such as optimization, machine learning, or inference to shape automated decision-making and dynamic marketplace systems.
Working under the guidance of a Science Manager, participants collaborate closely with engineers and product managers to frame business problems mathematically. Daily tasks involve exploratory data analysis, writing production modeling code, and designing live traffic experiments to facilitate launch decisions. This hybrid opportunity requires working from the Toronto office at least three days per week to support collaborative team culture.
What you will do
- Partner with engineers, product managers, and other cross-functional partners to frame problems mathematically and within a business context.
- Perform exploratory data analysis to gain a deeper understanding of target problems.
- Write production modeling code and collaborate with software engineers to implement algorithms in production.
- Design and run both simulated and live traffic experiments.
- Analyze experimental and observational data to communicate findings and facilitate launch decisions.
What you need
- Currently pursue a Masters or PhD degree at a university in Canada in mathematical sciences, economics, data engineering, or a related field.
- Have a graduation date between December 2027 and June 2028.
- Remain available during Summer 2027 for an internship based in Toronto.
- Bring experience coding in Python, SQL, or R, along with standard data science libraries.
- Demonstrate expertise in one of the required specialties including optimization and mathematical modeling, machine learning fundamentals, or probabilistic and statistical modeling.
Nice to have
- Experience in marketplace design
- Ridesharing experience
- Studying two-sided marketplaces
- Transportation industry experience
Benefits
- Mental health benefits
- 2 days paid time off and 3 days sick time off
- Subsidized commuter benefits
- Lyft ride credits
Skills and tech stack
Questions candidates ask
What is the remote work or in-office policy?
This role will be in-office on a hybrid schedule. Team members are expected to work in the office at least 3 days per week, specifically on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
What is the pay rate for this position?
The expected base pay range for this position in the Toronto area is CAD $45 to CAD $48 per hour. Salary ranges depend on qualifications, experience, and geographic location.
What educational background is required?
Candidates must currently be pursuing a Masters or PhD degree at a university in Canada in mathematical sciences, economics, data engineering, or a related field. The graduation date must fall between December 2027 and June 2028.
Who will I report to in this role?
You will report into a Science Manager. Team members also partner closely with engineers, product managers, and other cross-functional colleagues.