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Sr. Data Scientist, Machine Learning (Fraud)

Varo is an entirely new kind of bank. All digital, mission-driven, FDIC insured and designed for the way our customers live their lives. A bank for all of us.



About the Data Science Team

Varo’s Data Science Team develops Machine Learning models that make it easier for the right people to get access to funds, help protect customers from fraudsters, and transform the in-app experience with real-time recommendations. Unlike some organizations where data takes a support role, here at Varo data science is front and center. Since we are in hyper-growth mode, you will get to work on the most impactful data science problems from day one. We rely on advanced techniques in machine learning, cloud platforms, and data technology. We’re a team of PhDs and ex-academics with a collegial work atmosphere. If you are interested in working with an impressive team of Data pros who collaborate and challenge each other and want to solve interesting problems to propel the company’s growth, apply now!


About the Role

Varo represents a new generation of fintech built on technology and innovation to empower consumers. We serve millions of Americans with our mobile app to make digital banking easy, convenient, and personalized. At Varo, we believe the future of fraud detection in fintech lies with Machine Learning. We are innovating models that dynamically calculate fraud risk scores and predict customer transaction behavior. You’ll lead Machine Learning in Fraud at Varo, working on models that protect customers from fraudsters while growing Varo’s customer base and enabling product features to be more accessible to all. You will be responsible for developing the machine learning models that will underlie Varo’s fraud detection system. You will own the development and training of these models, as well as contribute to the design of architecture that serves the models.


What you'll be doing
  • Lead efforts within the organization to drive the design, development, optimization, and productionization of ML-based fraud models
  • Enable customers to have broader access to risky product features by designing a fraud system that balances precision of detection with customer experience and growth
  • Work with stakeholders in the fraud organization to identify opportunities for driving business value with ML
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with the engineering team to deploy models and monitor outcomes
  • Guide and mentor junior machine learning scientists and engineers


You’ll bring the following required skills and experiences
  • 4+ years of expertise in developing ML industry applications for fraud or risk applications
  • Demonstrated experience and/or interest in building fraud detection machine learning models
  • Ph.D. or equivalent in Computer Science, Statistics, or related field
  • Strong bias for action and team player
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
  • Preferred: Familiarity with Sagemaker, Spark, TensorFlow, Keras, and PyTorch


$160,000 - $180,000 a year
For cash compensation, we set standard ranges for all US-based roles based on function, level, and geographic location, benchmarked against similar-stage growth companies. Per applicable law, the salary range for this role is $160,000 - $180,000. Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors as well as candidate experience and expertise and may vary from the identified range. 

#MidSenior


We recognize not everyone will have all of these requirements. If you meet most of the criteria above and you’re excited about the opportunity and willing to learn, we’d love to hear from you!



About Varo

Varo launched in 2017 with the vision to bring the best of fintech into the regulated banking system. We’re a new kind of bank – all-digital, mission-driven, FDIC-insured, and designed around the modern American consumer. 


As the first consumer fintech to be granted a national bank charter in 2020, we make financial inclusion and opportunity for all a reality by empowering everyone with the products, insights, and support they need to get ahead. Through our core product offerings and suite of customer-first features, we aim to address a broad range of consumer needs while profitably serving underserved communities that have been historically excluded from the traditional financial system.


We are growing quickly in our hub locations of San Francisco, Salt Lake City, and Charlotte along with colleagues located across the country. We have been recognized among Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies, Forbes’ Fintech 50, and earned the No. 7 spot on Inc. 5000’s list of fastest-growing companies across the country.


Varo. A bank for all of us.


Our Core Values

- Customers First

- Take Ownership

- Respect

- Stay Curious

- Make it Better


Learn more about Varo by following us:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/varomoney

Instagram - www.instagram.com/varobank

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/varobank

Twitter - https://twitter.com/varobank

Engineering Blog - https://medium.com/engineering-varo

SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/varobank




Varo is an equal opportunity employer. Varo embraces diversity and we are committed to building teams that represent a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.



Beware of fraudulent job postings!

Varo will never ask for payment to process documents, refer you to a third party to process applications or visas, or ask you to pay costs. Never send money to anyone suggesting they can provide work with Varo.  If you suspect you have received a phony offer, please e-mail careers@varomoney.com with the pertinent information and contact information.


CCPA Notice at Collection for California Employees and Applicants:

https://varomoney.box.com/s/q7eockvma9nd2b0utwryruh4ze6gf8eg

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CEO of Varo Bank
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Colin Walsh
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What You Should Know About Sr. Data Scientist, Machine Learning (Fraud), Varo Bank

Join Varo as a Sr. Data Scientist in Machine Learning (Fraud) and be part of a revolution in digital banking. Varo is not just another bank; we're an entirely digital, mission-driven financial institution designed with our customers in mind. As part of the Data Science Team, you will be at the forefront of developing advanced Machine Learning models that improve access to funds, protect customers from fraud, and enhance the in-app experience with personalized recommendations. Here at Varo, data science is central to our mission, and in our high-growth environment, you'll tackle impactful problems right from the start. You'll lead efforts to design, develop, and optimize fraud detection models that ensure customer accessibility while maintaining security. Collaborating with a talented team of experts, including PhDs and ex-academics, you’ll work cross-functionally to deploy and monitor these models. If you have at least 4 years of experience in developing machine learning applications in fraud or risk and possess a passion for innovation, this is the role for you. At Varo, we believe in financial inclusion; we are committed to empowering all consumers. Join us in making a significant difference in the world of fintech!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Sr. Data Scientist, Machine Learning (Fraud) Role at Varo Bank
What does a Sr. Data Scientist in Machine Learning at Varo do?

As a Sr. Data Scientist in Machine Learning at Varo, you will focus on designing, developing, and optimizing fraud detection models. Your responsibilities include collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance customer access to banking services while ensuring fraud safety. You'll also guide junior team members and work on advanced Machine Learning techniques tailored for Varo's unique needs.

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What qualifications do I need to apply for the Sr. Data Scientist role at Varo?

To qualify for the Sr. Data Scientist role at Varo, candidates should have at least 4+ years of experience in machine learning applications specifically in fraud or risk. A Ph.D. or equivalent in Computer Science, Statistics, or related fields is preferred. Familiarity with tools like Sagemaker, Spark, TensorFlow, Keras, and PyTorch also enhances your application.

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How does Varo use Machine Learning for fraud detection?

Varo employs Machine Learning to innovate fraud detection models that calculate fraud risk scores dynamically and predict customer transaction behaviors. This technology enables us to protect customers while allowing broader access to our product features.

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What is the work culture like at Varo for a Sr. Data Scientist?

At Varo, the work culture is collaborative and focused on growth. You will find a collegial environment filled with talented professionals, including PhDs and ex-academics, all eager to innovate and solve complex problems together. We prioritize curiosity, respect, and continuous improvement.

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What is the expected salary for a Sr. Data Scientist at Varo?

The salary range for a Sr. Data Scientist at Varo is between $160,000 and $180,000 annually, determined by factors like candidate experience and expertise. This competitive package reflects Varo's commitment to attracting top talent in the fintech industry.

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What kind of projects will I work on as a Sr. Data Scientist at Varo?

As a Sr. Data Scientist at Varo, you will lead projects focusing on machine learning models that balance fraud detection precision and customer experience. You’ll have the opportunity to collaborate across teams and work on high-impact projects that contribute directly to company growth.

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What skills are essential for success in the Sr. Data Scientist position at Varo?

Essential skills for a Sr. Data Scientist at Varo include a strong foundation in machine learning algorithms, programming languages like Python, experience with data technologies, and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. A proactive approach and teamwork will be key to your success.

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Common Interview Questions for Sr. Data Scientist, Machine Learning (Fraud)
What machine learning techniques have you implemented in fraud detection?

In discussing your experience, highlight specific machine learning techniques you’ve utilized, such as logistic regression, decision trees, or neural networks. Emphasize how these techniques helped detect fraud patterns and enhanced decision-making processes.

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Can you describe a successful project where you developed a machine learning model?

When answering, focus on a project that demonstrates your technical skills and problem-solving abilities. Include details such as the project's objective, the methodology you applied, any challenges faced, and the positive outcomes achieved.

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How do you handle imbalanced data in fraud detection models?

Discuss strategies like oversampling, undersampling, or using cost-sensitive learning. Explain how you would assess model performance using metrics like precision, recall, or the F1 score rather than just accuracy due to the nature of fraud detection.

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What role does feature engineering play in your machine learning projects?

Emphasize the importance of feature engineering in enhancing model performance. Discuss specific examples where you engineered features that significantly improved fraud detection capabilities, such as behavioral patterns or transaction anomalies.

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How would you evaluate the success of a fraud detection model?

Outline your approach to model evaluation, including the use of confusion matrices, ROC curves, and key performance indicators like precision and recall. Illustrate how you would iterate and improve the model based on these metrics.

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How do you stay updated with the latest machine learning advancements?

Discuss methodologies you use to stay informed, such as attending conferences, following industry blogs, taking online courses, or participating in professional networks. Show your dedication to continuous learning.

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Can you explain a time when you had to convince a stakeholder to adopt a machine learning solution?

Share a specific example where you presented data-driven insights effectively to stakeholders. Detail how you addressed their concerns, provided evidence of ROI, and ultimately secured their buy-in for the proposed solution.

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What tools or programming languages do you prefer for building machine learning models?

Mention your proficiency in relevant programming languages such as Python or R, and discuss libraries or frameworks like TensorFlow, Keras, or PyTorch you've used. Highlight the specific contexts in which you've found them most effective.

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How do you mentor junior data scientists or team members?

Explain your mentoring approach, such as conducting regular code reviews, providing feedback on project execution, or holding knowledge-sharing sessions. Highlight the importance of fostering a collaborative learning environment.

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What unique perspective do you bring to the Sr. Data Scientist role at Varo?

Reflect on your personal background, experiences, and insights that you believe make your approach to data science unique. Consider how this perspective aligns with Varo's vision for innovative and inclusive fintech solutions.

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After decades in financial services, our CEO, Colin Walsh, was fed up with the growing disconnect between what customers want: an affordable bank account that helps them solve everyday financial problems, and what traditional banks offer: expensiv...

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Full-time, remote
DATE POSTED
November 29, 2024

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