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.
Principal Scientist, AI-Native Discovery (Large Molecules)
$117K - $201K *
Advance AI-native biologics discovery by integrating cutting-edge AI and computational methods into therapeutic programs. Collaborate across teams to enhance decision-making and accelerate the develop...
5 days ago
Principal Scientist, AI-Native Discovery (Large Molecules)
$117K - $201K *
Engage in AI-native biologics discovery by integrating advanced AI and computational design into therapeutic programs. Collaborate across teams to enhance decision-making and accelerate drug discovery...
5 days ago
Principal Scientist, AI-Native Discovery (Large Molecules)
$117K - $201K *
Unlock potential by integrating AI and computational design into biologics discovery. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance therapeutic development and drive innovative solutions in drug...
5 days ago
Principal Scientist, AI-Native Discovery (Large Molecules)
$117K - $201K *
Optimize biologics discovery by integrating AI and computational design into therapeutic programs. Collaborate across teams to enhance decision-making and accelerate learning cycles, shaping the futur...
5 days ago
Principal Software Architect (Graph Architect)
$150K - $180K *
Lead the architectural vision for scalable Identity Resolution platforms, driving innovation in enterprise applications and data processing. Collaborate with engineering teams to ensure robust, high-p...
1 week ago
$80K - $95K *
Advance business intelligence by leveraging data science techniques to develop predictive models and insights. Contribute to team success through collaboration and effective communication while drivin...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Data Analyst, Clinical Data Effectiveness
$95K - $115K *
Drive clinical data quality as a Subject Matter Expert, ensuring effective data flows and integrity across healthcare systems. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize vendor strategies and...
Reposted 4 weeks ago
$135K - $160K *
Champion enterprise data architecture and AI/ML solutions, leading initiatives in data integration, governance, and analytics. Drive innovation in data pipelines and model validation while mentoring t...
Yesterday
$88K - $105K *
Unlock potential by leveraging data science expertise to drive insights and solutions. Collaborate with stakeholders to evolve business capabilities through predictive modeling and innovative analytic...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Data Scientist II, Rapid & Rural Logistics (R2L) Analytics
$136K - $184K *
Shape your career as a Data Scientist, tackling complex business challenges and driving innovative solutions in a collaborative environment focused on enhancing customer experience and efficiency with...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$114K - $252K *
Transform the enterprise AI landscape by architecting innovative cloud solutions, enabling optimized workflows across government services, and driving team excellence in AI development and integration...
Reposted 6 days ago
Director, AI Opportunity Development
$250K - $300K *
Shape the future of AI by identifying and evaluating socially impactful opportunities. Leverage technical expertise and relationships across sectors to surface innovative ideas and guide actionable re...
1 week ago
Program Manager, National Security Policy Operations
$120K - $145K *
Empower our National Security Policy team by executing effective program management. You'll coordinate planning, streamline operations, and enhance decision-making processes, ensuring priorities are m...
2 days ago
Program Manager, National Security Policy Operations
$110K - $130K *
Unlock potential by leading program management efforts that enhance team operations, streamline decision-making, and ensure effective execution of national security initiatives. Collaborate across tea...
2 days ago
Risk Modeling Services - AI Data Scientist Director
$134K - $348K *
Transform client outcomes by leading AI-driven risk modeling initiatives. As a Director, you'll shape strategic direction, foster executive relationships, and guide teams in delivering innovative data...
6 days ago
$150K - $180K *
Unlock the potential of AI-native solutions by collaborating directly with clients to transform pilot projects into production-grade systems. This role encompasses architecting end-to-end AI systems w...
4 weeks ago
Director, Business Intelligence
$161K - $269K *
Lead the charge in transforming data-driven decision-making across a global organization by developing and executing a comprehensive BI strategy, fostering cross-functional partnerships, and advancing...
2 weeks ago
Director, Business Intelligence
$161K - $269K *
Lead the charge in transforming business intelligence strategies into actionable insights. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance data-driven decision-making and drive measurable business...
2 weeks ago
Director, Compendial Science Digital Integration
$171K - $243K *
Join us to lead the digital transformation of compendial standards, integrating scientific rigor with innovative technologies. Drive efficiency and accessibility in standards development while collabo...
1 week ago
Manager, Predictive Modeling and Machine Learning
$158K - $170K *
Lead the development of predictive models integrating advanced ML techniques to drive strategic decision-making across credit risk, collections, and business operations while mentoring data scientists...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Principal Applied Plasma Data Scientist
$150K - $180K *
Accelerate plasma modeling through advanced machine learning techniques, contributing cross-disciplinary research that enhances experimental design and operational efficiency in fusion power developme...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Data Scientist (Palantir Foundry)
$120K - $145K *
Unlock the potential of data as a senior data scientist, transforming U.S. Army enterprise data into impactful analytical products and workflows, while collaborating with cross-functional teams to dri...
1 week ago
Senior Applied Machine Learning Scientist (predictive analytics)
$156K - $190K *
Lead and mentor a high-performing AI/ML team, driving innovative solutions and technical excellence. Collaborate across functions to deliver enterprise-level insights and ensure compliance with govern...
1 week ago
Senior Applied Machine Learning Scientist (predictive analytics)
$156K - $190K *
Transform the future of AI by leading a dynamic team of machine learning experts. Drive innovative solutions, mentor talent, and collaborate across functions to deliver impactful insights and scalable...
1 week ago
$244K - $279K *
Transform your career by leading a cross-functional team to develop and implement innovative AI and machine learning solutions that drive impactful business outcomes and enhance customer experiences t...
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.