Chief Data Scientists shape how organizations use data, analytics, and artificial intelligence to make decisions and create business value. As senior executives, they set data science strategy, guide teams, and partner with leaders across the organization to turn complex information into measurable results. Explore vetted Chief Data Scientist (CDS) opportunities paying $100,000 or more on Ladders.
A Chief Data Scientist leads an organization’s data science vision and execution. Typical responsibilities include setting priorities for analytics and machine learning, overseeing data science teams, establishing standards for model development, and explaining findings to executives and stakeholders. Depending on the company, the role may also cover AI strategy, data governance, experimentation, and the development of data products.
Employers commonly seek extensive experience in data science, statistics, machine learning, or a related discipline, along with a record of leading teams and delivering business outcomes. Strong candidates combine technical judgment with executive communication, strategic planning, and cross-functional collaboration. Familiarity with responsible AI, privacy, data quality, and cloud-based data platforms can also be valuable.
Chief Data Scientists work across industries including technology, financial services, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, and consulting. The position may be titled Chief Data Scientist, Chief AI Officer, VP of Data Science, or Head of Data Science, depending on the organization’s structure. These leaders often work closely with engineering, product, legal, and business teams.
Browse vetted professional opportunities for Chief Data Scientists and related data science leaders on Ladders. Discover roles with salaries of $100,000 or more, compare opportunities, and find a position that matches your leadership experience and career goals.
Applied Data Scientist – Performance Management & AI Solutions
$87K - $157K *
Innovate solutions by leveraging data, AI, and analytics to enhance operational performance. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transform complex challenges into actionable insights, driving m...
1 week ago
$135K - $220K *
Shape the future of AI by designing and delivering agentic systems that enhance customer operations. Collaborate across teams to drive impactful solutions, ensuring accuracy and scalability while ment...
5 days ago
$164K - $205K *
Elevate scientific rigor in real-world evidence development. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure agent conceptualization and evaluation meet scientific standards, driving impactful solut...
5 days ago
Data & Solution Architect (Databricks and Palantir Platforms)
$171K - $189K *
Deliver innovative data and AI solutions by architecting scalable systems, engaging with clients, and transforming complex challenges into actionable insights. Join us to drive impactful results in en...
5 days ago
Staff Data Scientist (People Analytics & Insights)
$191K - $224K *
Transform organizational talent management by architecting predictive data solutions that drive decision-making, enhance team performance, and support retention strategies at scale. Leverage advanced...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Staff Data Scientist (People Analytics & Insights)
$217K - $255K *
Elevate your career by leading the development of predictive talent solutions that transform workforce management through advanced data science and analytics, driving exceptional team performance and...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Staff Data Scientist (People Analytics & Insights)
$217K - $255K *
Transform organizational talent management through advanced analytics. Lead prediction-driven insights, integrate AI solutions, and design data frameworks to enhance employee performance and retention...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$165K - $235K *
Unlock potential by supporting the Executive Director in strategic decision-making, operational efficiency, and external stakeholder engagement to drive effective organizational growth and performance...
3 weeks ago
$165K - $235K *
Pioneer organizational excellence by supporting the Executive Director, streamlining decision-making, and driving operational initiatives. Bring your expertise to enhance team performance and ensure s...
3 weeks ago
$120K - $145K *
Advance your career by leading data-driven transformations, managing diverse teams, and delivering tailored AI solutions that drive growth and value for clients in a dynamic, agile environment...
2 weeks ago
$120K - $145K *
Lead the charge in data-driven transformation, guiding teams to deliver tailored AI solutions while managing client relationships and driving business growth in a dynamic environment...
2 weeks ago
$120K - $145K *
Lead the charge in data-driven transformation, guiding teams to deliver tailored AI solutions that drive growth and enhance client relationships while identifying new business opportunities for long-t...
2 weeks ago
$130K - $155K *
Elevate machine learning capabilities by designing and deploying scalable ML systems. Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to transform complex problems into impactful solutions, ensuring reliabi...
1 week ago
Human Performance Data Scientist II
$128K - $173K *
Elevate your career by leading data analytics initiatives, guiding teams, and advising on research methodologies to drive impactful decision-making for government programs. Your expertise will shape t...
2 weeks ago
Human Performance Data Scientist II
$128K - $173K *
Reimagine data analytics as you lead a team of experts in delivering actionable insights. Drive strategic decision-making through robust research methodologies and program evaluations, ensuring data q...
2 weeks ago
Human Performance Data Scientist II
$128K - $173K *
Elevate your career by leading data analytics initiatives, guiding teams, and advising on research methodologies. Collaborate with senior leadership to drive data-driven decision-making and ensure hig...
2 weeks ago
$85K - $100K *
Lead the charge in data-driven healthcare improvement by analyzing complex datasets, producing innovative reports and dashboards, and employing predictive modeling techniques to optimize patient outco...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Senior Data Scientist, Agentic AI & LLM Engineering
$110K - $135K *
Unlock the potential of AI by designing and implementing advanced agentic systems and LLM-powered applications that enhance scientific research capabilities with a focus on developing reliable, produc...
3 weeks ago
$120K - $145K *
Unlock insights by leading data-driven sales forecasting initiatives, analyzing trends, and developing robust models to influence strategic revenue decisions while collaborating with cross-functional...
4 weeks ago
Research Scientist, Machine Learning
$160K - $190K *
Advance AI research by designing and executing innovative projects in machine learning, optimization, and generative modeling. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate findings into scalab...
2 days ago
Research Scientist, Machine Learning
$150K - $180K *
Unlock potential by conducting groundbreaking AI research to enhance ads technology. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate innovative findings into scalable solutions, driving impactful...
2 days ago
$111K - $150K *
Lead the charge in advanced data science initiatives, guiding analytical projects of enterprise significance while mentoring a team of data scientists and ensuring methodological rigor in analyses tha...
4 days ago
$111K - $150K *
Lead the charge in advanced data science initiatives, guiding analytical projects of enterprise significance while mentoring junior analysts and ensuring methodological rigor in statistical modeling a...
4 days ago
$171K - $214K *
Join us to lead the design and oversight of complex models driving customer lifetime value. Collaborate with engineers and business teams to enhance decision-making across marketing, finance, and prod...
2 weeks ago
Sr Director Analyst - AI Technology Economics
$172K - $202K *
Discover innovative insights into AI's economic impact. Leverage analytics and market dynamics to shape vital research while influencing industry leaders with cutting-edge strategies and actionable ad...
3 weeks ago
What does a Chief Data Scientist do?
A Chief Data Scientist sets data science strategy, leads analytics and machine learning teams, and helps executives apply data-driven insights to business decisions. The role may also oversee AI initiatives, data products, and responsible data practices.
What qualifications are common for Chief Data Scientist jobs?
Employers typically look for deep experience in data science or a related technical field, leadership experience, and a record of delivering measurable results. Expertise in machine learning, statistics, AI, data governance, and executive communication is often valued.
How is a Chief Data Scientist different from a Data Science Manager?
A Data Science Manager generally leads a team or function, while a Chief Data Scientist typically sets strategy across the organization and advises senior executives. The exact scope varies by company.
Which industries hire Chief Data Scientists?
Chief Data Scientists are hired in technology, financial services, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, consulting, and other sectors that rely on analytics, machine learning, or AI.
What salary range can I expect for Chief Data Scientist jobs on Ladders?
Ladders focuses on vetted professional jobs paying $100,000 or more. Compensation varies based on factors such as industry, location, company size, and the scope of the role; review individual listings for salary details.