Walmart

(USA) Staff, Data Scientist

Walmart • $143K — $286K *
Sunnyvale, CA 94087Hybrid
Retail & Consumer Goods
8 - 10 years of experience
2 weeks ago
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 8+ years in Data Science / Applied ML (or PhD + 5 years) with focus on pricing and causal modeling
  • Experience delivering production-grade optimization models with measurable financial outcomes
  • In-depth knowledge of pricing dynamics, including seasonality and competitor behavior
  • Hands-on experience with deep learning frameworks like PyTorch or TensorFlow
  • Strong coding skills in Python and understanding of software engineering principles

Responsibilities

  • Design and deploy machine learning models for pricing strategies
  • Conduct elasticity analysis on vast data sets for informed decision-making
  • Own all aspects of the Price Recommendation lifecycle
  • Develop advanced pricing solutions utilizing causal modeling and optimization techniques
  • Create explainable pricing systems to clarify model recommendations
  • Implement graph-based modeling for cross-item effects
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams and mentor emerging machine learning engineers

Benefits

  • Medical, vision, and dental coverage
  • 401(k) plan and company-paid life insurance
  • Generous paid time off including sick leave and parental leave
  • Adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement
  • Live Better U education benefit program covering tuition, books, and fees
Full Job Description
Position Summary...

What you'll do...
We are seeking a Staff Data Scientist to serve as a technical anchor for the Omni Price Recommendation Engine. You will lead the scientific design and end-to-end execution of high-frequency pricing systems that balance competitive positioning with long-term margin health. This is a high-visibility role requiring a deep mastery of Causal Inference, Reinforcement Learning, and Elasticity Modeling.

What You'll Do
  • Design and deploy prescriptive ML models to address high-impact pricing and markdown needs, ensuring alignment with Walmart's Global Tech strategy and EDLP integrity.
  • Perform elasticity analysis across large data sets and category segments to empower data-driven pricing decisions.
  • Own the E2E Price Recommendation lifecycle, including scoping, feature engineering, causal modeling, experimentation (A/B testing), and ongoing performance optimization.
  • Develop advanced pricing and optimization solutions using:
  • Causal Inference & Elasticity: Identification of treatment effects beyond simple log-log approaches (Double ML, Instrumental Variables, Uplift modeling).
  • Optimization & Reinforcement Learning: Multi-armed bandits, Deep RL (PPO, DQN) for sequential decision-making, and constrained optimization.
  • Deep Learning: Modern architectures for demand sensing and price-response curves.
  • Uncertainty Quantification: Bayesian approaches and conformal prediction to manage the risk of price changes.
  • Build explainable pricing systems: Provide model interpretability and stakeholder-facing narratives on "why" a price recommendation was made (e.g., competitor move vs. inventory health).
  • Apply graph-based modeling to capture cannibalization and halo effects across product hierarchies and spatial locations (GNNs, temporal graphs).
  • Establish strong evaluation and monitoring: Backtesting against historical price changes, drift detection, and calibration of price-response curves.
  • Drive best practices in AgentOps: Build Agentic workflows to enable chat-based price explainability and "what-if" scenario planning for Merchants.
  • Collaborate and Mentor: Partner with Product, Business, and Engineering to set technical direction and mentor the next generation of MLEs.


What You'll Bring
  • 8+ years in Data Science / Applied ML (or PhD + 5 years), with deep hands-on exposure to pricing, elasticity, or causal modeling.
  • Demonstrated experience delivering production-grade optimization models with measurable financial outcomes (e.g., Margin lift, Inventory turnover).
  • Strong knowledge of pricing dynamics: Seasonality, competitor indexing, promotional impact, regime changes, and price-point psychology.
  • Hands-on experience with deep learning frameworks (PyTorch or TensorFlow) and modern architectures for decision-focused AI.
  • Practical experience with Explainable AI (XAI) and communicating complex model reasoning to non-technical business stakeholders.
  • Excellent coding skills in Python; strong grasp of software engineering fundamentals (testing, CI/CD, MLOps).


Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with Causal Inference & Decision Science: Impact estimation, counterfactuals, and policy evaluation.
  • Advanced Graph Learning: Using GNNs to model cross-item elasticity and substitution patterns.
  • Large-scale Data/Compute: Experience with Spark, Feature Stores, and distributed training in a cloud environment (GCP/Azure).
  • Building Human-Centered AI: Dashboards for "driver decomposition" and "why the price changed" analysis.
  • Agentic Frameworks: Experience deploying LLM-based agents to act as intermediaries between complex models and business users.

    Minimum Qualifications...

    Outlined below are the required minimum qualifications for this position. If none are listed, there are no minimum qualifications.

    Option 1: Bachelors degree in Statistics, Economics, Analytics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Information Technology or related field and 4 years' experience in an analytics related field. Option 2: Masters degree in Statistics, Economics, Analytics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Information Technology or related field and 2 years' experience in an analytics related field. Option 3: 6 years' experience in an analytics or related field

    Preferred Qualifications...

    Outlined below are the optional preferred qualifications for this position. If none are listed, there are no preferred qualifications.

    Data science, machine learning, optimization models, PhD in Machine Learning, Computer Science, Information Technology, Operations Research, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Econometrics, Successful completion of one or more assessments in Python, Spark, Scala, or R, Using open source frameworks (for example, scikit learn, tensorflow, torch), We value candidates with a background in creating inclusive digital experiences, demonstrating knowledge in implementing Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 AA standards, assistive technologies, and integrating digital accessibility seamlessly. The ideal candidate would have knowledge of accessibility best practices and join us as we continue to create accessible products and services following Walmart's accessibility standards and guidelines for supporting an inclusive culture.

    Primary Location...

    1375 Crossman Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94089-1114, United States of America

    At Walmart, we offer competitive pay as well as performance-based bonus awards and other great benefits for a happier mind, body, and wallet. Health benefits include medical, vision and dental coverage. Financial benefits include 401(k), stock purchase and company-paid life insurance. Paid time off benefits include PTO (including sick leave), parental leave, family care leave, bereavement, jury duty, and voting. Other benefits include short-term and long-term disability, company discounts, Military Leave Pay, adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, and more.

    You will also receive PTO and/or PPTO that can be used for vacation, sick leave, holidays, or other purposes. The amount you receive depends on your job classification and length of employment. It will meet or exceed the requirements of paid sick leave laws, where applicable.

    For information about PTO, see https://one.walmart.com/notices.

    Live Better U is a Walmart-paid education benefit program for full-time and part-time associates in Walmart and Sam's Club facilities. Programs range from high school completion to bachelor's degrees, including English Language Learning and short-form certificates. Tuition, books, and fees are completely paid for by Walmart.

    Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to a specific plan or program terms.

    For information about benefits and eligibility, see One.Walmart.

    Sunnyvale, California US-11656: The annual salary range for this position is $143,000.00 - $286,000.00

    Bentonville, Arkansas US-09158: The annual salary range for this position is $110,000.00 - $220,000.00

    Additional compensation includes annual or quarterly performance bonuses.

    Additional compensation for certain positions may also include :

    - Stock
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About Walmart

WalmartLabs is accelerating their development to redefine the shopping experience to meet the changing needs of our customers wherever they are —in a store, on our website, or on their mobile device.

Walmart Careers

Joining Walmart means becoming part of a world-renowned team that leads with innovation and is committed to creating impact. As the largest retailer globally, Walmart offers unparalleled job opportunities and career growth in an environment that values diversity and leadership. Work You’ll Do At Walmart, you will be part of a dynamic team that drives our mission to help people save money so they can live better. Engage in work that matters with a company that offers both stability and the flexibility to explore different career paths. Transform the retail landscape with your skills and help shape the future of millions of customers worldwide. Walmart is at the forefront of combining retail with advanced technology, making it an exciting place for professional growth and innovation. Lead with Us Step into a role that harnesses your potential and places you at the intersection of retail and technology. Walmart is not just a company; it's a community where you can develop your leadership skills and contribute to a culture that nurtures professional growth. Work with a diverse team of experts who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Our commitment to diversity training ensures that all team members are valued and can thrive. Walmart Careers and Employment Opportunities We are continuously expanding our team to include enthusiastic professionals eager to drive change and make a significant impact. Explore a range of positions from entry-level to executive, each offering competitive benefits and the opportunity to advance. Innovate with Us Join Walmart and be part of a team that is dedicated to innovation and excellence. With over 2.3 million associates worldwide, you are joining the largest private employment group, ready to innovate, lead, and impact the global market. Internship Programs Kickstart your career with a Walmart internship. Gain invaluable experience, build your resume, and develop networking connections that will empower your career journey. Our internships provide a platform to apply your academic knowledge in real-world scenarios, preparing you for future employment. Be Part of a Great Team At Walmart, our team is our strength. We invest in our employees through robust training programs, leadership development, and opportunities for career advancement. Enjoy the benefits of working in a supportive and inclusive environment where every member’s contribution is valued. Future-Proof Your Career Your journey at Walmart can be as vast as your ambitions. With endless opportunities to grow, learn, and lead, you can take your professional experience to new heights. Benefit from our comprehensive training programs and develop the skills needed for tomorrow’s challenges. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are looking for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. Explore the diverse job opportunities at Walmart and find where you can make a difference. Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Walmart. SEARCH WALMART JOBS Join Walmart today and be part of a story of growth, innovation, and leadership.
Learn more about Walmart
Size
2,300 employees
Market Cap
$387 billion
Industry
Retail & Consumer Goods
Net Income
$13.5 billion
Founded
1962
5 Year Trend
+3.3%
Revenue
$559.1 billion
NASDAQ
WMT
* Ladders Estimates

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