Data Scientist (North America)

Are you interested in learning about what makes capital projects really tick? Do you love making connections and solving puzzles or problems? Are you detailed and focused, but you have broad interests and ideas? Do you enjoy analytical research work?

Independent Project Analysis, Inc. (IPA) is a research firm providing insights to help shape and improve our clients’ capital project portfolios for over 35 years. Unlike other consulting firms, IPA’s recommendations are drawn from measured data collected by IPA through face-to-face interviews. Our hands-on data collection process ensures our data are accurate and of the highest quality.

The Data Scientist role focuses on extracting insights from our large database of capital projects. These insights are used to hone and refine our benchmarking and market intelligence products across industrial sectors (oil and gas, energy, minerals, infrastructure, chemicals, pharmaceutical, and consumer products). Our Data Scientists are also tasked with supporting the creation of new products (e.g., applications) that drive the company forward and help our clients navigate a changing world. IPA values innovation, and our Data Scientists are instrumental in this innovation effort.

IPA seeks candidates with strong analytical and programming skills and intellectual curiosity who are looking to contribute as a thought leader to fill a Data Scientist position.

The general responsibilities of the Data Scientist role include:

• Developing and deploying machine learning models for predictive analytics
• Researching and implementing new algorithms and techniques to improve model performance and efficiency
• Preparing and presenting analytical reports
• Developing and deploying large language model (LLM)-based in-house tools
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams within IPA and working directly with clients to identify solutions that address their specific questions and needs

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related field
• Proven experience in data science, machine learning, and statistical modeling
• Proficiency in Python, R, SQL, or other relevant programming languages
• Experience with machine learning frameworks such as PyTorch and scikit-learn
• Demonstrated ability to develop and deploy traditional machine learning models and deep neural networks
• Hands-on experience implementing Large Language Models (LLMs) for Retrieval‑Augmented Generation (RAG) and agentic workflows in practical applications
• Good understanding of Machine Learning Operations (MLOps) principles and practices
• Experience with cloud platforms, including AWS and Azure, is a big plus
• Portfolio of relevant projects (academic, professional, or personal) showcasing technical skills and creativity
• Must be able to work on-site

• 1 – 3 years of academic research or professional experience in machine learning or data science projects
• Demonstrated ability to quickly learn and apply new technologies and methodologies
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently on complex technical challenges
• Excellent critical thinking skills and attention to detail
• Ability to effectively communicate complex technical concepts to technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Eagerness to receive feedback and commitment to continuous learning and improvement
• Experience participating in data science competitions, open-source contributions, or research publications is a plus

For over 35 years, IPA has delivered groundbreaking research and quantitative risk analyses to enhance the value generated by our clients’ capital project systems and meet their obligations for sustainable and safe performance. IPA guides capital intensive organizations to establish the right combination of people, work process, and governance to maximize performance across several measures—cost, schedule, safety, operability performance, and carbon reduction. We maintain a dataset of over 24,000 capital projects as the basis of our work. Our clients are leading companies in the energy, minerals, infrastructure, chemicals, pharmaceutical, and consumer products sectors. IPA is committed to social and ethical responsibility, and all global offices initiate or participate in local charity initiatives to support those in need. We offer competitive salaries, excellent benefits, stable employment, and a long-term career path for professional growth and development.

Applicants should complete the form below and include a cover letter, resume, project portfolio (e.g., GitHub profile), and salary requirement. IPA is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.