The AI/ML Data Scientist at Southern Company is responsible for driving innovation in the development of advanced data-driven solutions.  Includes collecting, organizing, mining, and deeply analyzing data to draw conclusions and develop insights that enable better decision-making, automation, and operational effectiveness of Southern Company business units.  Data scientists possess a combination of analytical skills, technical expertise, and business acumen in addition to intellectual curiosity that drives their passion to transform raw intelligence into actionable insights that produce desired business outcomes.  Going beyond established analytical thinking and problem-solving, the data scientist will apply creativity to unconventional concepts and out-of-the-box solutions. Other skillsets needed in this role include a working knowledge and awareness of mathematical principles and statistics, astute ability to communicate at all levels of the organization, and the ability to monitor industry trends to position Southern Company for future growth and maturity in the data space.     

JOB REQUIREMENTS: (Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skills)

Education/Experience:

PhD or Advanced Degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Statistics (Theoretical/Computational), Machine Learning or Artificial Intelligence

Demonstratable expertise in hands-on Machine Learning/Artificial Intelligence solution design, development, and deployment

Proven knowledge of statistical techniques and data science is required

15+ years of experience working in a fast-paced, competitive organization driven by data and enabled by technology

Knowledge/Skills:

Advanced statistical analysis skills including multi-variable data analysis and predictive modeling techniques.  Demonstrated skill in supervised, unsupervised and reinforcement learning including but not limited to natural language processing, neural networks, computer vision, Bayesian learning and clustering.

Strong technical competency and programming skills in large-scale data analysis using coding/querying languages including at least one of Python, R, and SQL.  Experience with machine learning libraries and frameworks such as Azure Machine Learning, Databricks, Azure Cognitive Services, azure Synapse Analytics, AI Gallery, and/or Notebooks. 

Analysis, design, development, test, troubleshooting and documentation of complex systems including several of the following: predictive models, feature extraction, data-driven analysis, application of machine learning algorithms, text mining, decision support, variable selection, and model fit

Knowledge of data migration and integration across datasets and technology platforms

Experience manipulating large datasets and databases with working knowledge of Hadoop or other big data technologies

Extensive knowledge doing Machine Learning and using cloud-native AI services is a plus (Azure preferred).

Deep analytical capability to debug, monitor, and troubleshoot issues with data solutions

Effective communication (verbal/written) and leadership skills to foster enterprise influence on data-driven business decision-making

Ability to transform technical jargon into meaningful business insight at varying levels of the organization

Comprehensive consulting skills with proven ability to work with and influence others

Excellent customer service skills and focus on delivery with a positive attitude

Self-starter with ability to work independently with minimal guidance

Continuous self-learner with perspective on industry trends in the data space

Ability to handle multiple assignments and conflicting priorities

Ability to build productive relationships with a focus on cooperation and teamwork

Job Responsibilities: 

Design, develop & deploy AI/ML models, proofs of concept, and innovations, to enable business value 

Data Analysis and Interpretation: Analyze large, complex datasets to extract meaningful insights and trends that drive business decisions. 

Model Development: Develop and implement sophisticated statistical models and algorithms to address business challenges. 

Data Modeling: Design and optimize data models to support various business applications and analytical needs. 

Collaborative Projects: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including data engineers, software developers, and business analysts, to integrate models and insights into production systems. 

Lead technical teams and resources including contractors to deliver AI/ML solutions at scale, providing technical guidance and mentorship to team members

Consultations: Provide high-level technical estimates & feasibility assessments for intake to enable valuation of ideas 

Research and Innovation: Stay abreast of the latest developments in data science, machine learning, and data modeling techniques to continuously improve methodologies and processes. 

Documentation and Reporting: Document processes, models, and findings thoroughly to ensure reproducibility and compliance with company standards. 

Enterprise enablement and optimization of data science capability: enable the enterprise to optimize data science as a capability through centralized repositories and features, monitoring of performance, and through sharing of best practices and models across operating units through common tools

Core Behavioral Attributes:

The successful candidate will demonstrate understanding and application of the Southern behaviors: Unquestionable Trust, Superior Performance, and Total Commitment.

Additional required behavioral attributes:

Results-oriented

Innovative 

Strategic thinker with an enterprise view for sustainable solutions 

Committed to continuous learning and improvement 

Committed to the development of others 

Committed to building and maintaining constructive partnerships with business partners 

Works well both independently and with others 

Acts with speed and decisiveness 

Committed to ethical conduct 

Lives and works safely