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Within the Financial Data Management organization, we are seeking a disciplined, self-motivated Senior Data Scientist who approaches challenges with integrity and humility. Ideal candidates will have experience working with cutting-edge technologies such as large language models (LLMs), Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), GenAI solutions, and predictive modelling, and demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and collaborative problem-solving.

You'll enjoy the flexibility to work remotely * from anywhere within the U.S. as you take on some tough challenges. For all hires in the Minneapolis or Washington, D.C. area, you will be required to work in the office a minimum of four days per week.

Primary Responsibilities of the Senior Data Scientist: (4+ years of experience in each of the following)

• Design and deploy intelligent models by applying advanced statistical techniques, traditional machine learning algorithms, deep learning architectures, and modern approaches such as Large Language Models (LLMs), Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), and Agentic AI. Leverage state-of-the-art libraries and frameworks to ensure scalable, production-grade solutions aligned with enterprise deployment standards
• Lead cross-functional discovery sessions with business stakeholders and internal technology developers to translate business challenges into actionable analytical objectives. Drive alignment between statistical rigor and emerging AI capabilities to maximize operational impact
• Deliver robust statistical analyses that frame business scenarios with clarity and precision, integrating classical inference methods with generative and agentic reasoning to inform critical decisions and enhance process outcomes
• Collaborate with data stewards and engineering teams to curate high-quality datasets for model development. Ensure data integrity and readiness for both traditional predictive modelling and autonomous agent workflows
• Develop end-to-end modelling pipelines encompassing sampling design, data and selection of appropriate statistical and AI methodologies. Document processes and results with transparency, supporting reproducibility and auditability across both ML and LLM-based systems
• Communicate insights and model outputs effectively to stakeholders, translating complex statistical and AI-driven findings into actionable business narratives
• Monitor and refine model performance through continuous evaluation, incorporating feedback loops and adaptive learning mechanisms. Recommend enhancements to algorithms and agentic workflows that unlock new insights and drive measurable improvements

You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

Required Qualifications: (minimum of 4+ years of experience)

• Proven experience in transitioning projects from proof-of-concept (PoC) to production, with a focus on scalability, reliability, and performance
• Proficiency in traditional machine learning and statistical modelling, including regression, classification, sampling design
• Proven solid coding skills in Python, SQL, and related languages
• Demonstrated system-level thinking and a track record of creative problem-solving, including non-standard approaches to complex challenges
• Proven exposure to LLM technologies

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Agentic AI frameworks such as LangChain, LlamaIndex, and other orchestration tools for autonomous agents
• Hands-on experience implementing/adapting published academic research into tangible solutions
• Knowledge of work with US healthcare data (claims, clinical records, authorization, provider contracts)
• Proficiency in deep learning frameworks PyTorch, Tensorflow or other
• Proven ability to understand emerging prompting strategies/research and evaluate benefits/trade-offs

*All employees working remotely will be required to adhere to UnitedHealth Group's Telecommuter Policy

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The salary for this role will range from $89,900 to $160,600 annually based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.

Application Deadline: This will be posted for a minimum of 2 business days or until a sufficient candidate pool has been collected. Job posting may come down early due to volume of applicants.

At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone-of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location and income-deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission.

UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.

UnitedHealth Group is a drug - free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.