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.
$265K - $306K *
Pioneer data-driven solutions in a thriving fintech environment. Join our collaborative data science team to drive product innovation and shape strategic decisions that enhance customer experience and...
3 weeks ago
$140K - $200K *
Innovate and oversee cutting-edge NLP pipelines, owning modeling end-to-end for extracting valuable insights from vast scientific texts. Collaborate closely with engineers and stakeholders to drive im...
Reposted 1 month ago
$100K - $209K *
Unlock potential by leading data-driven initiatives to optimize infrastructure processes. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop scalable models and solutions, ensuring high-quality data s...
Reposted 5 days ago
$110K - $130K *
Lead the charge in leveraging data science to solve complex mission problems for the USAF. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop, validate, and deploy machine learning models while ensur...
2 weeks ago
$206K - $269K *
Analyze product and business challenges, leveraging data and collaboration with cross-functional teams to drive strategic insights and influence decision-making for impactful product development...
5 days ago
$150K - $190K *
Unlock potential by developing and enhancing data models that deliver trusted insights on land use and market dynamics, collaborating cross-functionally to shape innovative analytical solutions that m...
4 weeks ago
Data scientist (Census Automation)
$110K - $140K *
Accelerate progress at the forefront of AI innovation, leading the design and deployment of advanced agentic systems. Collaborate with a dynamic team to create scalable solutions using cutting-edge te...
1 week ago
$110K - $130K *
Join a dynamic team to shape the future of data engineering and analytics. Leverage your expertise to design, manage, and modernize enterprise data platforms using Microsoft tools, driving impactful d...
3 weeks ago
$130K - $160K *
Lead the charge in designing and managing scalable enterprise data platforms using Azure and Microsoft Fabric, combining technical expertise with strong data governance and stakeholder leadership to a...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Lead the charge in developing digital twins to enhance clinical trial design and support evidence-based decisions. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to translate clinical questions into quantit...
Today
$219K - $323K *
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to leverage data insights, drive strategic decisions, and shape business operations through innovative analytics and experimentation in a dynamic environment...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$219K - $323K *
Elevate your career by leveraging data science to drive strategic decisions, lead a team in uncovering key insights, and influence cross-functional operations in a dynamic, global organization focused...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$219K - $323K *
Transform complex data into actionable insights by leading a team of Data Scientists. Guide strategy and operational changes to drive growth and efficiency in a dynamic environment while collaborating...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$105K - $150K *
Shape the future of cybersecurity by leveraging data science to solve complex problems. Collaborate across diverse disciplines to develop innovative solutions and apply cutting-edge techniques in mach...
3 weeks ago
Data Scientist (Forward Deployed)
$125K - $150K *
Shape data-driven solutions by leveraging your expertise in machine learning and analytics. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver impactful insights and ensure seamless deployment in prod...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$125K - $145K *
Empower national security by transforming data into actionable insights. As a Mid-Level Data Scientist, you'll automate processes, develop visualizations, and collaborate with analysts to modernize wo...
Today
$80K - $95K *
Unlock potential by leading data-driven strategies that enhance Teaching and Learning programs. Collaborate with key stakeholders to analyze, report, and improve outcomes through effective data manage...
2 weeks ago
Chief of Staff, AI & Data Operations
$164K - $271K *
Champion the future of AI & Data Operations by driving strategic initiatives, enhancing execution, and fostering collaboration across teams. Partner with senior leadership to translate priorities into...
Yesterday
Research Scientist, Human Data & Evaluation
$150K - $200K *
Champion innovative research initiatives by transforming complex client questions into actionable insights. Take ownership of projects from concept to delivery, leveraging cutting-edge methodologies a...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Research Scientist, Human Data & Evaluation
$150K - $200K *
Engage in pioneering research within AI, transforming client questions into impactful studies. Lead end-to-end projects, design methodologies, and generate insights, driving innovation at the intersec...
3 weeks ago
$120K - $145K *
Elevate user experiences via advanced data science techniques to enhance algorithm performance and drive engagement. Collaborate with a passionate team to implement innovative solutions that leave a s...
3 weeks ago
$114K - $252K *
Champion the development of an enterprise data platform critical to national security. Lead a team in architecting cloud-based data pipelines, overseeing migrations, and ensuring data governance to en...
3 weeks ago
Principal Data Scientist- Decisioning
$149K - $194K *
Unlock potential by leading the design and deployment of advanced analytics models to enhance customer relationships and drive business outcomes through data-driven decision-making and collaboration a...
2 days ago
Principal Data Scientist - Safety
$274K - $373K *
Drive impactful data-driven strategies to enhance content safety and moderation, leveraging advanced analytics and machine learning to protect user experiences and ensure platform integrity across a d...
2 weeks ago
$165K - $248K *
Shape the future of data analytics by leading a high-performing team to deliver innovative solutions, drive strategic initiatives, and enhance decision-making across the organization through effective...
1 week 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.