Senior Data Scientist, AI​/ML

Optimized Payments is the only fintech firm purpose-built to find and unlock value wherever it resides in our portfolio’s payment ecosystem. We’ve assembled a team with deep expertise across payments specialties to develop a proprietary analytics platform that finds actionable insights. We are an Atlanta based 17-year-old, and growing, company looking for talented individuals who want to grow with us.

Our client portfolio includes Fortune 500 firms such as Apple, Staples, Safeway, Priceline, Auto Nation, and the U.S. Postal Service.

We are seeking a visionary and entrepreneurial AI Data Scientist to drive the development of innovative products powered by artificial intelligence. In this role, you’ll design, build, and deploy production‑level AI models with a direct focus on shaping and launching new products and solutions. You will collaborate closely with product managers, engineers, and business teams to identify opportunities where AI can create significant value, and lead initiatives from concept to launch.

• Lead the end‑to‑end development of AI models for new product features and standalone solutions.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional product teams to inform product design with data‑driven insights and AI capabilities.
• Identify areas across our business where AI technologies can drive innovation and competitive advantages.
• Own the process of prototyping, validating, and iterating AI‑powered product ideas.
• Translate research advances and cutting‑edge AI into tangible business applications and product offerings.
• Build predictive modeling, NLP, computer vision, and recommendation systems to directly enhance user experience and deliver differentiated products.
• Develop scalable deployment strategies and work with engineering teams to integrate machine learning and deep learning models into core products.
• Present findings and product concepts to technical and non‑technical stakeholders; advocate for AI‑first product strategies.

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Computer Science, AI, Mathematics, Engineering, or related fields.
• 3+ years designing and deploying AI/ML solutions in a commercial environment, ideally focused on new product development.
• Strong skills in Python (scikit‑learn, Tensor Flow, PyTorch, etc.), SQL, and end‑to‑end model deployment.
• Deep understanding of transforming AI research into user‑facing products.
• Experience leading projects from ideation through launch—especially those centered on AI‑powered features or solutions.
• Familiarity with product management and agile development processes.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and collaboration skills.

• Hands‑on experience in building AI‑driven SaaS or platform products.
• Experience experimentation, A/B testing, and user feedback for model improvement.
• Awareness of responsible and ethical AI product development.
• Track record of patents, publications, or measurable product impact from AI deployments.

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Stock Options
• Generous PTO + Paid Holidays
• Opportunity to be part of a dynamic, fast‑growing company that will double in size in two years.
• Hybrid work environment with flexibility to work from home 3 days a week.
• A collaborative and inclusive company culture where your ideas are valued.
• Free onsite covered parking and access to a full gym with showers.

Optimized Payments strongly supports equal employment opportunity for all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, marital status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by provincial and/or federal law. Accommodations for candidates with disabilities are available on request during all aspects of the recruitment and selection process.

If accommodation is needed during the recruitment and selection process, please contact us and we will work with you to meet your accessibility needs.