Data Scientist

Title: Data Scientist

Department: Baseball Operations

Reporting to: Assistant GM, Baseball Development & Technology       

Job Classification: Full-time, Exempt

Full-time Location (City, State): Mesa, AZ

About the A's:

The A's are a baseball team founded in 1901. They have a rich history, having won nine World Series championships and 15 American League pennants. The A's are known for pioneering the "Moneyball" approach to team-building, which focuses on using statistical analysis to identify undervalued players. 

In addition to their success on the field, the A's also have a positive and dynamic work culture. They have been recognized twice as the Front Office Sports, Best Employers in Sports. 

The A's are defined by their core pillars of being Dynamic, Innovative, and Inclusive. Working for the A's offers the opportunity to be part of an innovative organization that values its employees and strives to create a positive work environment.

Description:

The A’s are hiring for a full-time Data Scientist for the Baseball Operations Department. The Data Scientist will construct statistical models that inform decision-making in all facets of Baseball Operations. This position requires strong experience in statistics, data analytics, and computer science. This position is primarily based out of Mesa, AZ.

Responsibilities:

• Design, build, and maintain predictive models to support player evaluation, acquisition, development, and performance optimization.
• Collaborate with Baseball Analytics staff to integrate analytical findings into decision-making tools and ensure seamless implementation.
• Analyze and synthesize large-scale data, creating actionable insights for stakeholders within Baseball Operations.
• Research and implement advanced statistical methods, including time series modeling, spatial statistics, boosting models, and Bayesian regression, to stay on the cutting edge of sabermetric research.
• Develop and maintain robust data modeling pipelines and workflows in cloud environments to ensure scalability and reliability of analytical outputs.
• Produce clear, concise written reports and compelling data visualizations to communicate insights effectively across diverse audiences.
• Stay current with advancements in data science, statistical methodologies, and player evaluation techniques to identify and propose new opportunities for organizational improvement.
• Mentor team members within the Baseball Operations department, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment.

Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field; PhD preferred.
• Proficiency in SQL, R, Python, or other similar programming languages.
• Strong understanding of modern statistical and machine learning methods, including experience with predictive modeling techniques.
• Proven experience productionizing machine learning models in cloud environments.
• Ability to communicate complex analytical concepts effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to independently design, implement, and present rigorous quantitative research.
• Passion for sabermetric research and baseball analytics with a deep understanding of player evaluation methodologies. 
• Strong interpersonal and mentoring skills with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Expertise in time series modeling, spatial statistics, boosting models, and Bayesian regression.
• Previous experience in sports analytics, ideally baseball, is a plus.
• Familiarity with integrating biomechanical data into analytical frameworks.

The A’s diversity statement:

Diversity Statement Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are in our organizational DNA. Our commitment to these values is unwavering – on and off the field. Together, we continue to build an inclusive, innovative, and dynamic culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates belonging and amplifies diverse voices. Combining a collaborative and innovative work environment with talented and diverse team members, we've created a workforce in which every team member has the tools to reach their full potential.

Equal Opportunity Consideration:

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.