Senior Data Scientist, Brokerage - job 1 of 2

As a Senior Data Scientist with Robinhood, you will focus on building data solutions that promote the growth of our brokerage products. Your responsibilities include conducting exploratory data analysis, designing advanced statistical models, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and communicating your findings effectively. This role is crucial for identifying growth opportunities and optimizing trading strategies.

To qualify for the Senior Data Scientist position at Robinhood, you should possess a PhD in a quantitative field like Mathematics or Statistics, or hold a Master’s with relevant work experience. Additionally, you must have a solid understanding of quantitative finance models and experience in trading or pricing functions within the financial sector.

A Senior Data Scientist at Robinhood plays a vital role in product innovation by using data insights to drive product development and improvement. By collaborating with Product, Operations, and Engineering teams, you integrate data-driven decision-making into the product lifecycle, helping to shape innovative financial solutions that democratize access to finance.

Candidates for the Senior Data Scientist position should be adept at using tools like SQL, Spark, and various statistical modeling languages. Familiarity with machine learning algorithms and optimization techniques is essential, along with a strong grasp of quantitative finance models to analyze securities and trading products effectively.

The work environment at Robinhood for a Senior Data Scientist is dynamic and collaborative, with opportunities for engaging in innovative projects that directly impact our brokerage functions. The role is office-based in locations like New York or Bellevue, fostering teamwork and consistent interaction with cross-functional partners.

In answering this question, highlight specific quantitative finance models you’ve worked with, such as volatility models or options pricing models. Mention any projects where you applied these models to real-world problems, emphasizing your analytical skills and the outcomes of your work.

When responding, explain your process for exploratory data analysis, including how you identify key metrics and target variables. Share examples of tools you use, like SQL or visualization software, and how your insights have led to actionable business decisions.

Discuss statistical methods such as regression analysis, hypothesis testing, or machine learning techniques you’ve employed in past projects. Illustrate how you’ve used these methods to solve complex business problems and add value to previous roles.

In your response, outline a specific trading strategy you’ve developed or analyzed, detailing the models you used for pricing and risk assessment. Explain the impact of your strategy on business metrics, demonstrating both your technical and business acumen.

Explain your approach to breaking down complex data into easily understandable formats. Discuss the use of visual aids, summaries, or basic language to convey your findings to non-technical stakeholders, showcasing the importance of clear communication in data science.

Discuss your proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, emphasizing specific libraries or tools you leverage for data manipulation or modeling. Share examples of projects where your coding skills positively influenced the results.

Outline your familiarity with A/B testing methodologies, including designing experiments and analyzing results. Share a compelling example of how you successfully conducted an A/B test to measure the effectiveness of a change and the ensuing business impact.

Discuss how you assess project importance based on business impact and resource availability. Share your framework for balancing competing demands and how you contribute to the strategic direction of your team and company.

Reflect on current challenges such as data privacy, model interpretability, or bias in algorithms. Discuss your perspectives on addressing these challenges and how they relate to the role of a Senior Data Scientist at Robinhood.

Articulate your passion for Robinhood’s mission of democratizing finance and your eagerness to contribute to a forward-thinking, innovative company. Describe how your values align with the company's goals and how you envision making a meaningful impact.