The Walt Disney Company

Principal Data Scientist - Games

The Walt Disney Company$155K — $208K *
Consumer Technology
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in a quantitative field, advanced degree preferred.
  • 10+ years in data science or advanced analytics, preferably in gaming or entertainment.
  • Experience with statistical analysis, forecasting, and behavioral analytics on large datasets.
  • Proficiency in SQL and Python or R; familiarity with tools like Snowflake and Tableau.
  • Experience with gameplay telemetry and metrics like retention and monetization.
  • Knowledge of audience segmentation and A/B testing methodologies.
  • Ability to influence decisions through effective data storytelling.

Responsibilities

  • Lead data science and analytics for Disney Digital Entertainment, focusing on games.
  • Provide actionable insights and strategic recommendations to leadership teams.
  • Synthesize complex data into executive-level analysis and strategy recommendations.
  • Develop analytical frameworks to assess player engagement and monetization metrics.
  • Analyze gameplay and social engagement data to optimize user experiences.
  • Define KPIs and measurement frameworks in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
  • Conduct deep analyses on player behavior and monetization trends.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical coverage and health benefits.
  • Access to financial planning services.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and training.
  • Employee discounts on products and services.
  • Flexible working arrangements may be available.
Full Job Description
Job Posting Title:
Principal Data Scientist - Games

Req ID:


Job Description:

This role will serve as a key individual contributor, driving advanced analytics, predictive modeling, experimentation, and data insights initiatives across Disney's groundbreaking partnership with Epic Games in the development of an expansive new Disney digital universe connected to Fortnite.

In this high-impact position, you will partner closely with Product, Technology, Content, Marketing, Executive Leadership, and cross-enterprise teams to deliver data-driven insights that shape games product strategy, optimize player and audience engagement, improve monetization outcomes, and influence long-term business decisions. You will help build scalable data science capabilities, experimentation frameworks, dashboards, and behavioral analytics solutions.

This role is ideal for a deeply analytical and curious data science expert who thrives at the intersection of games, data, technology, and storytelling, and who is passionate about transforming complex behavioral datasets into meaningful consumer and business impact.

Responsibilities:
  • Serve as the primary games data science and analytics lead for Disney Digital Entertainment, acting as the central source of truth for games product performance, player behavior, and business insights
  • Partner closely with leadership, cross-functional leads, and cross-enterprise teams to delivering actionable insights and strategic recommendations that inform critical business and product decisions.
  • Develop and deliver data-driven business and product performance analyses for senior leadership by synthesizing complex data into clear narratives, executive-level presentations, and strategy recommendations.
  • Develop and apply advanced analytical frameworks, statistical analyses, forecasting models, and behavioral segmentation approaches focused on player engagement, retention, churn, monetization, lifecycle behavior, and content performance.
  • Analyze gameplay telemetry, social engagement data, creator content trends, and streaming interaction data, and cross-TWDC engagement signals to identify growth opportunities and optimize user experiences across games and digital entertainment ecosystems.
  • Partner closely with cross-functional teams and leadership to define KPIs, measurement frameworks, instrumentation requirements, and scalable analytics solutions that support product development and strategic planning.
  • Lead deep-dive analyses on player progression systems, engagement funnels, franchise affinity, personalization opportunities, social behaviors, and monetization trends to support data-informed product strategy.
  • Collaborate with data engineering and platform teams to build scalable analytics infrastructure, event pipelines, and trusted datasets and self-service reporting solutions.
  • Act as a subject matter expert on games analytics, measurement strategy, and product performance insights, driving best practices across the organization.
  • Translate complex analytical findings and technical concepts into clear, compelling narratives and recommendations for technical and non-technical audiences, including senior leadership.


Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Economics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field; advanced degree preferred.
  • 10+ years of experience in data science, advanced analytics, or quantitative product analytics, within gaming, streaming, or entertainment industries.
  • Proven experience applying statistical analysis, forecasting, experimentation frameworks, and behavioral analytics techniques to large-scale consumer and telemetry datasets.
  • Strong proficiency in SQL and Python or R, with hands-on experience working within modern cloud data ecosystems and analytics platforms such as Snowflake, Databricks, AWS, Tableau, and Looker.
  • Experience working with large-scale event-stream and gameplay telemetry datasets, including player behavior, audience engagement, content performance, progression systems, retention, and monetization analysis.
  • Familiarity with audience segmentation, personalization strategies, recommendation systems, or content optimization frameworks that support player engagement.
  • Strong understanding of player or consumer lifecycle analytics, engagement measurement, retention analysis, segmentation, monetization optimization, and experimentation methodologies including A/B testing.
  • Demonstrated ability to influence strategic decision-making through data-driven storytelling, executive communication, and cross-functional collaboration within fast-paced, matrixed organizations.


The hiring range for this position in Glendale, CA is $155,700 to $208,700 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

Job Posting Segment:
NA - Games

Job Posting Primary Business:
Regional (NA - Games)

Primary Job Posting Category:
Tech Data Analytics

Employment Type:
Full time

Primary City, State, Region, Postal Code:
Glendale, CA, USA

Alternate City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Date Posted:
2026-07-27

About The Walt Disney Company

The Walt Disney Company started as a cartoon studio and evolves into sports coverage and television shows. Using the company's portfolio of brands to differentiate our content, services, and consumer products, Walt Disney seeks to develop creative, innovative, and profitable entertainment experiences and related products.

The Walt Disney Company Careers

Join the magical world of The Walt Disney Company, a place where dreams come true and imagination meets innovation. As a global leader in entertainment and media, we offer unparalleled job opportunities that invite you to be part of a beloved brand known for its influential culture, diversity, and dynamic growth. Work You’ll Do Embark on a career journey with The Walt Disney Company and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of media and entertainment. Engage in work that matters, contributes to storytelling excellence, and brings joy to millions around the globe. Transform your professional life by joining a team that values creativity, leadership, and visionary thinking. The Walt Disney Company stands at the forefront of industry innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in entertainment and beyond. Lead with us from a unique position in the marketplace, where your skills in technology, creativity, and management converge to create extraordinary experiences. Collaborate with a diverse group of talented professionals, united in their passion for delivering magical experiences. Our team at The Walt Disney Company is composed of over 200,000 dedicated individuals who thrive in an environment that fosters growth, mentorship, and innovation. Introducing The Walt Disney Company Leadership and Professional Growth Programs We are committed to developing leaders who can navigate the challenges of the digital era and drive success across our various business segments. Our leadership programs are designed to hone your skills and prepare you for executive roles within the company. Do Innovative Work Join our team and contribute to projects that redefine the entertainment landscape. From groundbreaking films and television series to pioneering technological advancements, your work at The Walt Disney Company will set new standards in the creative and business worlds. Be Part of a Great Team Experience a culture that is inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking. Work alongside the best in the business and see how diversity and inclusion fuel our creativity and success. The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to a diverse workforce is evident in our hiring practices, training programs, and our everyday operations. Future-Proof Your Career With a wide array of benefits, continuous learning opportunities, and a network of supportive colleagues, your career at The Walt Disney Company is equipped for longevity and success. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health care, employee discounts, and access to exclusive company events and previews. Explore Job Opportunities and Internships Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for your next challenge or a student seeking a transformative internship, The Walt Disney Company offers positions across a spectrum of fields and disciplines. Explore our career portal to find job opportunities that match your skills and passions. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions, apply through our streamlined application process, and take the first step towards a magical career. We look for individuals who are passionate, curious, and eager to contribute to our legacy of storytelling and innovation. Keep Up to Date Stay informed with the latest company news, career tips, and insider perspectives—all from the people who make The Walt Disney Company a place of inspiration and excitement. Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts and updates that align with your career interests. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at The Walt Disney Company. Join us, and be part of the magic that only happens here at The Walt Disney Company!
Learn more about The Walt Disney Company
Size
190,000 employees
Market Cap
$155.1 billion
Industry
Net Income
-$4.9 billion
Founded
1923
5 Year Trend
+3.9%
Revenue
$60.7 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at The Walt Disney Company

More Consumer Technology Jobs

Find similar Principal Data Scientist - Games jobs: