Senior Data Scientist (Credit File Expert)

About VantageScore

At VantageScore we drive impact for good on a massive scale impacting tens of millions of people across the United States. Our mission is to be the leading credit modeling company delivering the most predictive, most innovative, and most inclusive tri-bureau models and attributes in the US market. Our innovation is increasing access for millions more Americans to financial products and homeownership. Our models are among, if not the most, inclusive in the United States and power billions of credits scores a year.

We are fueled by a growing, exceptionally talented team and are actively seeking individuals who can join us in driving us toward our ambitious goals. At VantageScore, you’ll have the unique opportunity to work within a fast-paced, independent start-up culture while enjoying the financial stability that comes from being backed by the three leading US credit bureaus.

VantageScore® consumer credit scoring models combine the need for both financial inclusion and dependable predictiveness across all scoring ranges. An industry thought leader and technology innovation leader, the company’s most recent models score approximately 94 percent of all adults 18 and older - including 33 million more people than conventional models - without sacrificing safety and soundness. As a result, lenders using VantageScore can extend credit to those who have been historically marginalized, including minority and lower-to-middle-income Americans. VantageScore credit scores are used by over 3,700 banks, fintechs and other companies use VantageScore credit scores every day to assess consumer creditworthiness.

Last year, over 42 billion VantageScore credit scores were used representing a 55% yearly increase. All 10 US banks use VantageScore credit scores or digital tools in one or more line of business. Starting in 2025 the FHFA has required VantageScore credit scores to be used for all mortgages sold to, or guaranteed by, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Get started using VantageScore credit scores today - we are the leader in predictive power and financial inclusion.

About The Role

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Data Scientist (Credit File Expert) to join our team of analytics professionals and developers dedicated to advancing the science of credit scoring, uncovering unique insights, and creating next-generation products grounded in innovative value propositions. This role is ideal for an accomplished data science and statistics practitioner who also possesses deep expertise in U.S. credit bureau data reporting and structure - specifically at Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

You will play a critical role in supporting our research initiatives and enhancing our ongoing product initiatives. Success in this role requires not only strong analytical and technical capabilities but also a deep understanding of credit bureau file formats, reporting practices, and nuances across the three major credit bureaus.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide research support by analyzing structured and unstructured data sets to generate actionable insights, guide product management, and inform new product development.
• Conduct comprehensive consumer profiling analyses leveraging credit file data alongside alternative data sources.
• Interpret and document bureau file specifications and schemas, staying current with changes and bureau-specific nuances, coding schemes, and reporting idiosyncrasies.
• Conduct advanced exploratory data analyses to uncover insights and trends in consumer credit behavior.
• Drive pilot program analyses, including back-testing, rejection inference, and performance analyses using diverse data sets.
• Improve and maintain existing model monitoring processes and develop compelling data visualizations and dashboards to communicate key insights to stakeholders.
• Partner with engineers to operationalize products into production systems, ensuring scalability and resilience at high data and inference volumes.
• Translate complex analyses into clear, actionable business recommendations for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Contribute to thought leadership through white papers, presentations, and insights shared internally and externally.

Basic Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD Degree in a quantitative background (data science, applied mathematics or statistics, computer science, engineering, econometrics or another related field).
• At least 3 years of direct experience manipulating and analyzing credit bureau data and applying advanced analytics (statistics, machine learning) in research and/or corporate environment.
• Demonstrated proficiency in credit bureau file reporting standards and data conventions at Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, with an ability to identify, interpret, and reconcile differences across bureaus.
• Strong foundation in data science, statistics, and advanced analytics, with the ability to design rigorous analyses and clearly communicate results.
• Proven ability to bridge technical analytics expertise with domain knowledge of credit data to deliver insights and develop impactful solutions.
• Strong track record of conducting research, developing analyses, and producing clear and impactful presentations or publications.
• Advanced programming skills in Python and working experience with SAS.
• Experience working in Agile and cross-functional teams.

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Familiarity with emerging alternative data sources and their integration with traditional credit bureau data.
• High level of analytical problem-solving skills and ability to assimilate complex information, as well as experience in building and deploying innovative solutions.
• Commitment to creating rigorous, high-quality insights from data.
• Experience with working on model implementation with engineering teams.
• Strong communication skills at all levels of technical & non-technical audience.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within teams.

Additional

• Generous Benefits: 401(K) matched up to 7%, Flexible Time Off, 12 Paid Holidays, Medical/Dental/Vision/Wellness benefits, Monthly Team Events, Modern Work/Collaboration Spaces

Join Us and Be the Catalyst of Change in Fintech! Are you a Data Scientist who thrives on innovation and has a deep passion for fintech? We invite you to take the leap and join our team. Together, let’s embark on a mission to redefine the industry and propel your career to new heights at VantageScore!