Manulife Financial Corporation

Senior Data Scientist

Manulife Financial Corporation$129K — $179K *
Information Technology
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Master's degree or higher in Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
  • 3-5 years of hands-on experience in data science, AI/ML development, model validation, or model risk management.
  • Practical experience developing and validating AI/ML models in a production environment, including Generative AI exposure.
  • Strong critical thinking abilities for challenging assumptions and assessing model risks.
  • Proficient in interpreting model performance metrics and quantitative analysis techniques.
  • Excellent communication, documentation, and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

  • Independently validate AI/ML and Generative AI models to assess their design, performance, and risks.
  • Conduct model testing, benchmarking, and sensitivity analysis.
  • Evaluate AI models for reliability, fairness, safety, and compliance with Responsible AI principles.
  • Provide constructive feedback to model developers on limitations and recommend improvements.
  • Review model documentation and communicate findings through evidence-based reports.
  • Support model inventory management and AI governance processes.
  • Translate complex technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders and contribute to improvements in AI governance.

Benefits

  • Health, dental, mental health, and vision coverage.
  • Short- and long-term disability and life insurance.
  • Adoption/surrogacy and wellness benefits.
  • Retirement savings plans including pension and employer-matching contributions.
  • Generous paid time off including holidays, vacation, personal, and sick days.
Full Job Description
About the Role

This is a high-impact opportunity for an experienced data scientist to help ensure AI models are reliable, fair, safe, and fit for purpose before they are deployed across Manulife. As part of the Global AI Model Validation and Governance (AIMVG) team, you will provide independent challenge, oversight, and validation of AI and machine learning models that support business decisions globally.

Working closely with model developers, business stakeholders, and governance teams, you will assess model performance, identify risks, and evaluate compliance with Manulife's Responsible AI principles and regulatory expectations.

Responsibilities
  • Independently validate AI/ML and GenAI models, assessing model design, performance, limitations, and risks.
  • Conduct model testing, benchmarking, sensitivity analysis, and other validation activities.
  • Evaluate whether AI models are reliable, fair, safe, explainable, and fit for their intended purpose.
  • Provide independent challenge and constructive feedback to model developers by identifying model weaknesses, limitations, assumptions, and risks, and recommending appropriate remediation actions
  • Review model documentation, assess model design and performance, and communicate validation findings through clear, evidence-based reports and recommendations.
  • Support model inventory management, model risk operations and AI governance processes.
  • Communicate complex technical concepts and validation findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of AI governance, model risk management, and Responsible AI practices.
  • Mentor and support junior data scientists through technical coaching, knowledge sharing, and review of validation approaches and methodologies.


Required Qualifications
  • Master's degree or higher in Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
  • At least 3-5 years of hands-on experience in data science, AI/ML development, model validation, model risk management, or a related quantitative discipline.
  • Experience developing, testing, validating, or overseeing AI/ML models in a production environment, including exposure to Generative AI.
  • Strong critical thinking skills and the ability to independently challenge assumptions and assess model risk.
  • Experience interpreting model performance metrics and conducting quantitative analysis.
  • Strong communication, documentation, and stakeholder management skills.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with model validation, independent model review, model risk management, or AI governance.
  • Familiarity with Responsible AI concepts, including fairness, explainability, robustness, transparency, safety, and monitoring.
  • Experience evaluating Generative AI, LLMs, RAG systems, or agentic AI solutions.
  • Knowledge of AI governance and model risk regulatory expectations.
  • Experience developing validation frameworks, testing libraries, or automated assurance tooling.
  • Experience working in a global, cross-functional environment.


What We're Looking For
  • A strong critical thinker who is comfortable challenging assumptions and providing independent oversight.
  • A technically strong practitioner with experience building, testing, or validating AI models.
  • Someone passionate about Responsible AI and ensuring AI systems are trustworthy, reliable, and safe.
  • A collaborative team player who can translate complex technical concepts into practical business insights.


The role being advertised is an existing vacancy.

Referenced Salary Location
Toronto, Ontario

Working Arrangement

Hybrid

Salary range is expected to be between
$129,400.00 CAD - $179,400.00 CAD

Employees also have the opportunity to participate in incentive programs and earn incentive compensation tied to business and individual performance. The actual salary will vary depending on local market conditions, geography and relevant job-related factors such as knowledge, skills, qualifications, experience, and education/training. If you are applying for this role outside of the primary location, please contact [email protected] for the salary range for your location.

Manulife offers eligible employees a wide array of customizable benefits, including health, dental, mental health, vision, short- and long-term disability, life and AD&D insurance coverage, adoption/surrogacy and wellness benefits, and employee/family assistance plans. We also offer eligible employees various retirement savings plans (including pension and a global share ownership plan with employer matching contributions) and financial education and counseling resources. Our generous paid time off program in Canada includes holidays, vacation, personal, and sick days, and we offer the full range of statutory leaves of absence. If you are applying for this role in the U.S., please contact [email protected] for more information about U.S.-specific paid time off provisions.

About Manulife Financial Corporation

John Hancock's core retail products in the U.S. focus on providing financial solutions at every stage of our clients' lives. Our product suite includes life insurance, mutual funds, 401(k) plans, long-term care (LTC) insurance, and annuities. We distribute our products primarily through licensed financial advisors, and through John Hancock Financial Network, a national network of independent firms.

Manulife Financial Corporation Careers

Join the dynamic team at Manulife Financial Corporation, a leading global financial services group dedicated to helping people make their decisions easier and lives better. With a presence in more than 20 countries, Manulife offers a diverse range of job opportunities that empower professional growth and innovation in the financial sector. Work You’ll Do At Manulife, every position contributes to our inclusive culture of diversity, leadership, and innovation. We are committed to fostering a workplace where every team member feels valued and has the opportunity for personal and professional growth. Join us to be part of a company that values your skills and passion. Explore a Wealth of Opportunities Whether you're seeking your first internship or a seasoned professional aiming to advance your career, Manulife offers a spectrum of career paths ranging from finance and marketing to technology and customer service. Our job opportunities are designed to enhance your skills through robust training programs and hands-on experience in a supportive environment. Innovate with Us Drive transformation in the financial services industry with Manulife’s commitment to technology and innovation. Work alongside over 34,000 professionals globally, leveraging cutting-edge tools and processes that redefine how financial services are delivered. Be Part of a Great Team Manulife’s team-oriented approach ensures that everyone’s voice is heard and valued. Collaborate with talented professionals from diverse backgrounds to develop solutions that improve the lives of our customers. Enjoy the benefits of a global company that supports your ambitions with resources and opportunities to lead and innovate. Future-Proof Your Career Manulife supports your career journey with continuous learning and development opportunities. From leadership training to networking events, we provide the tools to succeed and the platforms to showcase your achievements. Our commitment to career growth ensures that your journey with us will be rewarding and impactful. Stay Connected Join Our Team Discover the range of job opportunities at Manulife by exploring open positions that match your skills and interests. We are always on the lookout for curious, driven, and innovative team players who are ready to make a difference. Keep Up to Date Stay informed with the latest company news, career tips, and industry insights—all from the people who work here. Manulife is dedicated to providing you with the resources to thrive in your career. Job Alert Emails Customize your experience by subscribing to receive job alerts and insider information tailored to your preferences. Learn about exciting and rewarding opportunities as they arise and how you can be a part of our transformative team. Join Manulife Financial Corporation today and be part of a leading company where your career is as rewarding as it is impactful. Explore how far your talents can take you in an environment built on respect, integrity, and a desire to achieve the best outcomes for our clients and our team.
Learn more about Manulife Financial Corporation
Size
38,000 employees
Market Cap
$33.4 billion
Industry
Founded
1887
5 Year Trend
+1%
NASDAQ

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