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Principal Data Scientist

UpstartUnited States | RemoteData Analytics Department
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Salary
$182,300 — $252,500 USD
Job type
Full-time
Work mode
Remote
Experience
Senior · 8+ yrs
Posted
6 Oct 2026
Status
Open · checked 7d ago

About this role

Upstart is hiring a Principal Data Scientist for a remote position in the United States to shape strategic direction for credit and subscription products. This role suits an experienced quantitative professional who thrives in ambiguous environments and wants to partner with product and machine learning leaders.

Role Overview

The Product and Growth Analytics team at Upstart seeks a Principal Data Scientist to act as a strategic thought partner to leaders across product, finance, marketing, and machine learning. Operating in a digital-first environment, this position focuses on driving evidence-based decision-making and developing technical measurement tools for new subscription-based offerings.

Key Responsibilities

Set the agenda and identify strategic gaps by translating ambiguous business problems into clear frameworks
Partner with leadership across product, finance, and machine learning to define what matters most
Design and build internal tools such as forecasting models, spend allocation optimization, marketing incrementality, and attribution models
Execute experiments ranging from classic A/B tests to complex causal inference analyses
Build measurement strategies and metrics frameworks for stakeholders
Collaborate with the machine learning organization on technical challenges requiring statistical rigor and causal reasoning
Drive organizational change end-to-end from initial scoping to final storytelling

Requirements

Eight or more years of professional experience in data science or quantitative roles impacting product or business strategy
Mastery of experimental design and A/B testing
Deep expertise in statistics and causal inference methods
Strong coding skills
Track record of partnering with non-technical stakeholders to translate data into actionable decisions
Ability to navigate ambiguity and shape direction through thoughtful inquiry
Exceptional communication skills for translating complex technical work into clear narratives
Exposure to machine learning applications and ability to collaborate with technical teams
Familiarity with personalization, recommendation systems, or matching algorithms

Nice to Have

Experience with forecasting, spend allocation optimization, marketing incrementality, or attribution

Skills and Tools

A/B Testing
Causal Inference
Statistical Modeling
Forecasting Models
Spend Allocation Optimization
Marketing Incrementality and Attribution Models
Coding

Salary and Benefits

Anticipated base salary range of $182,300 to $252,500 USD, with exact pay dependent on geographic location, skills, and experience
Target bonuses, annual equity grants that vest quarterly, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Comprehensive health coverage including medical, dental, vision, and Health Savings Account contributions
Retirement planning including a 401(k) with a company match of $2 for every $1 contributed up to $15,000 annually
Life insurance, disability coverage, paid time off, sick leave, holidays, and paid parental leave

About the Company

Upstart operates an artificial intelligence lending marketplace that partners with banks and credit unions to expand access to affordable credit. The company uses thousands of signals and millions of predictions per borrower to power fair financial decisions. Operating with a digital-first philosophy, Upstart employs team members across multiple regions and encourages periodic in-person collaboration through regular team onsites.

How to Apply

Candidates should apply on the official company careers page.

Skills and tech stack

Machine LearningA/B TestingCausal InferenceForecasting ModelsAttribution ModelsSpark

Questions candidates ask

What is the location requirement for this role?

This is a remote position based in the United States, operating under Upstart's digital-first philosophy which includes occasional in-person team onsites.

How many years of experience are required?

Candidates must have 8 or more years of experience in data science or quantitative roles.

What is the salary range for the Principal Data Scientist?

The anticipated base salary range is $182,300 to $252,500 USD, depending on geographic location, skills, experience, and training.

What benefits does Upstart offer employees?

Benefits include base pay, bonuses, quarterly vesting equity grants, a 401(k) match up to $15,000, medical, dental, vision, Health Savings Account contributions, life insurance, disability coverage, paid time off, and parental leave.

What statistical methods are expected for this position?

The role requires deep statistical expertise, mastery of experimental design and A/B testing, and knowledge of causal inference methods.

Ready to apply?

The application is on the official Upstart careers page.

Apply on company site