Lead Data Scientist, GenAI

Kapitus is seeking a Lead Data Scientist with deep expertise in Generative AI (GenAI), Large Language Models (LLMs), and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) systems to join our diverse data team. This is a high-impact, hands-on role supporting multiple functions across the company—including Sales & Marketing, Underwriting, Collections, and HR—by building and deploying advanced AI solutions.

You will be a key contributor in architecting and implementing customized chatbot solutions using open-source LLMs (hosted on platforms like Amazon Bedrock) and third-party tools (such as Abacus.ai, Agent Force, etc.). You will also design and implement RAG systems that integrate internal data sources with base LLMs to deliver contextualized, accurate outputs.

Beyond technical development, you will champion GenAI adoption across Kapitus: identifying opportunities, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring alignment between business needs and AI solutions. You will provide technical guidance, mentor junior team members, and drive responsible, enterprise-level AI enablement.

What you will do:

· Lead the development, deployment, and monitoring of predictive and generative AI models to enhance sales, marketing, underwriting, collections, and HR strategies.

· Architect and implement customized chatbot solutions leveraging open-source LLMs and third-party GenAI platforms.

· Design and build Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) systems that integrate internal data sources with LLMs for more contextualized outputs.

· Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify business opportunities and translate them into scalable, data-driven solutions.

· Analyze large, complex datasets to extract actionable insights and drive decision-making.

· Develop and maintain machine learning models to predict customer behavior, improve targeting, and automate productivity.

· Mentor and guide junior data scientists and analysts in best practices, advanced analytics, and GenAI application development.

· Identify and integrate new data sources to enhance modeling capabilities; work with bureaus and data services to satisfy data requirements.

· Advocate for GenAI adoption across the company, engaging with stakeholders and ensuring business/AI alignment.

· Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies to keep Kapitus at the forefront of data science and AI innovation.

What we are looking for:

· MS or PhD in Economics, Marketing, Statistics, Finance, Survey Research, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field.

· 5 years of experience in financial services, with a strong track record of building and deploying models in applied contexts.

· Hands-on experience with LLM application development, RAG system design, platform integration, and enterprise-level AI enablement.

· Deep understanding of machine learning, econometric modeling, traditional modeling techniques (regression, tree-based models), and deep learning.

· Technical proficiency in Python, SQL, Linux, and AWS; experience with open-source LLMs and GenAI platforms (e.g., Amazon Bedrock, Abacus.ai, Agent Force).

· Experience with marketing mix modeling, digital attribution, multivariate regression, time-series modeling, Bayesian statistics, segmentation, data mining, simulation, optimization, and forecasting.

· Strong attention to detail, excellent communication, and project management skills.

· Agile/Scrum experience preferred.

· Ability to perform exploratory data analysis and visualization.

· Strategic mindset, business acumen, and client relationship skills.

· Passion for using advanced analytics and machine learning to generate business impact.

Kapitus Total Rewards Package Includes:

· Competitive Base Salary Range of $117,800-$189,000 Kapitus is providing this as a good faith salary range to comply with applicable law. The applicant’s final salary will depend on a number of factors including the applicant’s geographic location, skills, and experience.

· Incentive Eligibility - based on KPI’s and quality results

· Health Insurance: We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and employer-paid vision plans through UnitedHealthcare (UHC), with various coverage levels available to meet the needs of our employees and their families.

· 100% Company Paid Insurances: Kapitus fully covers the cost of basic short-term and long-term disability insurance, as well as vision insurance, ensuring our employees have comprehensive protection without any personal expense.

· Voluntary Insurance: Supplemental life insurance as well as enhanced short- and long-term disability coverage are available through Mutual of Omaha, providing additional security for our employees. Additionally, Colonial Accident and Hospitalization insurances are also available, offering further protection against unforeseen events.

· Paid Maternity and Parental Leave: Beyond state-mandated leave policies, Kapitus provides company-paid maternity and parental leave, supporting our employees during important family milestones.

· LifeBalance Program: Enhance your lifestyle with our LifeBalance membership, which offers discounts on outdoor activities, the arts, health, and fitness. Additional benefits include:

o Pet and car insurance discounts.

o Financial services such as LegalShield.

o Relaxation and stress management tools, including a fully covered annual subscription to The Calm App.

· Plum Benefits Discount Program: Access exclusive discounts on shows, travel, car rentals, and more, enriching your personal and family life.

· Tuition Reimbursement: Pursue further education with up to $5,000 annually in tuition reimbursement, plus opportunities to attend relevant conferences and career development events.

· Transit Reimbursement: We also offer transit reimbursement for all work-related travel, supporting your involvement in career and personal development activities.

· Paid Time Off and Sick Time

· Retirement Benefits: Our 401K plan is managed through Fidelity, featuring a 25% match on employee contributions, helping you plan for a secure financial future.

About Kapitus:

Kapitus is one of the most reliable and respected names in small business financing. As both a direct lender and a marketplace built with a trusted network of lending partners, we can provide small businesses with the financing they need when, and how it is needed.

We have spent our entire existence building a culture that makes us excited to come to work in the morning. Our company is fast paced, teammates need to be self-directed and have an internal motivation to do the right thing, even when the right thing takes a lot of hard work.

We show our teammates our appreciation by offering great benefits, competitive pay and solid opportunity for growth.

Company Mission:

At Kapitus, our mission is to help small business owners grow their organizations by providing tailored, transparent, and ethical financing solutions. We invest in every business owner’s story and we are dedicated to building lasting relationships to champion their goals. We promise to keep the best interests of our clients at the center of the financing process by operating with transparency, fairness, and integrity.

Consideration will be given to qualified remote candidates residing in states where Kapitus and/or one of its subsidiaries has an established physical presence.