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.
$100K - $120K *
Innovate cutting-edge AI and Computer Vision solutions in a dynamic team. Collaborate with experts to optimize algorithms and deliver impactful geospatial insights. All experience levels welcome to ap...
Yesterday
$100K - $120K *
Elevate your career by joining a dynamic team focused on advancing Geospatial AI. Collaborate with experts to develop cutting-edge solutions in AI and Computer Vision, transforming vast data into acti...
Yesterday
Data Scientist - National Security
$110K - $130K *
Champion data-driven decisions by automating analytics for homeland security. Support critical missions by leveraging advanced data science and visualization techniques to enhance operations and deliv...
3 weeks ago
Senior/Staff Applied Scientist
$180K - $330K *
Pioneer innovative A/B experimentation techniques to enhance decision-making across product domains. Collaborate with data science and engineering teams to develop scalable solutions that drive produc...
2 weeks ago
Data Scientist 5 - Media Science DSE
$372K - $500K+*
Partner with us to build a robust data science framework, transforming production and financial insights into strategic studio decisions, while enhancing operational efficiency and show management wit...
3 weeks ago
$155K - $211K *
Lead the charge in developing innovative data solutions that enhance business workflows and drive automation, collaborating with cross-functional teams to translate requirements into actionable insigh...
Reposted 6 days ago
Lead Data Scientist, Telematics
$142K - $178K *
Drive innovation as a Lead Data Scientist I, balancing telematics modeling and data engineering to enhance pricing and underwriting strategies. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver impac...
3 weeks ago
$140K - $231K *
Optimize our data science team and innovate financial applications by leading projects, designing machine learning models, and addressing complex challenges within the financial industry to deliver im...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$127K - $203K *
Unlock potential by leveraging data science to combat fraud, enhance security, and develop innovative solutions within a collaborative environment aimed at delivering actionable insights and value-add...
3 weeks ago
$150K - $250K *
Unlock potential by leveraging big data technologies to enhance cloud applications, ensuring robust data processing and analytics. Collaborate with teams to deliver innovative solutions and maintain h...
1 week ago
$120K - $145K *
Accelerate progress at the forefront of data science by leading model development, mentoring teams, and driving analytics solutions that enhance business performance across various domains, including...
2 weeks ago
$150K - $180K *
Lead a transformative data strategy, shaping AI integration while ensuring data security and actionable insights across multiple business functions. Collaborate with teams to drive operational efficie...
3 weeks ago
$160K - $200K *
Shape the future of data strategy and AI integration by leading a dynamic, cross-functional team that transforms complex datasets into actionable insights, driving efficiency and innovation across the...
3 weeks ago
$230K - $320K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of finance through AI governance. Lead initiatives that ensure data integrity and compliance while empowering innovation. Collaborate with cross-functional teams...
1 week ago
$90K - $110K *
Champion data-driven insights by analyzing transaction and reconciliation data. Collaborate with clients and stakeholders to identify trends, operational risks, and improvement opportunities, enhancin...
1 week ago
$104K - $161K *
Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing national security through innovation and expertise in data science. Collaborate with skilled professionals to develop advanced analytical solutions and improv...
4 weeks ago
Senior Data Scientist/PI - Evaluating Foundation Models and AI Agents for National Security
$140K - $228K *
Join a team advancing innovative data science for national security by designing novel evaluation frameworks and leading comprehensive research projects, while mentoring junior staff and contributing...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Drive impactful training as a Databricks Data Engineer, enhancing FEMA's data engineering skills through tailored curriculum and hands-on instruction, while collaborating with stakeholders to achieve...
2 days ago
$110K - $130K *
Unlock potential by delivering data-driven insights that optimize margin performance. Collaborate with teams to analyze and improve pricing strategies, utilizing advanced analytics and machine learnin...
Reposted 3 days ago
$95K - $105K *
Empower students by designing data models that deliver personalized college and career recommendations. Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure models are accurate, fair, and actionable, driving impa...
1 week ago
Director, Forward Deployed Researcher - Data as a Service
$228K - $403K *
Shape the future of AI by leading a team that tackles complex data challenges, collaborates with frontier researchers, and drives technical excellence in a dynamic environment. Balance leadership with...
2 weeks ago
Director, Forward Deployed Researcher - Data as a Service
$228K - $403K *
Transform your career by leading a dynamic team in AI solutions, driving technical excellence, and shaping strategic partnerships with frontier AI labs to tackle complex data challenges...
2 weeks ago
Applied Real World Data Scientist
$160K - $190K *
Unlock potential by leading data-driven insights to enhance patient access to medications. Collaborate with diverse teams to execute innovative analytics that inform health plans, improve medication e...
Reposted yesterday
Technical Director of AI & Data
$180K - $200K *
Accelerate progress at the forefront of AI and data innovation, leading strategic initiatives and operational excellence. Collaborate with diverse teams to drive impactful solutions and foster talent...
5 days ago
$114K - $144K *
Pioneer innovative data solutions by leveraging advanced analytics and machine learning. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance data management and visualization, driving impactful insight...
6 days 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.