Senior Data Scientist, Responsible AI

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This role sits within the AI+ Research & Commercialization (ARC) team reporting to the Head of Responsible AI (RAI) Innovation & Governance. A dynamic opportunity for skilled data scientists who are passionate about shaping the future of responsible AI in financial services, this role will lead a team of data scientists in the development of guardrails, evaluation frameworks, and technical governance strategies to ensure that AI solutions are performant, safe, and aligned with risk and regulatory expectations.

This position requires deep technical expertise in machine learning and AI testing and evaluation methods, combined with a strong understanding of responsible innovation and underlying principles, such as fairness, explainability, and reliability. The ideal candidate will be comfortable leading a team of data scientists while navigating ambiguity, working across disciplines, and applying research-driven approaches to real-world AI governance challenges in a regulated environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with engineering, product, cybersecurity, risk, and platform teams in both the enterprise and across lines of business to deliver embedded guardrails and lifecycle governance for AI solutions in support of Responsible AI Operations (RAIOps).
• Lead a team of data scientists in developing technical AI testing and evaluation methodologies fit for financial services and aligned to BMO’s responsible AI principles.
• Perform analyses and develop insights for model and product-level safety mitigations.
• Own and continuously refine our RAIOps testing and evaluation strategy and roadmap, inclusive of leading targeted research efforts as frontier AI and responsible innovation practices mature.
• Serve as a technical thought partner in cross-functional responsible AI initiatives, helping to embed safeguards and evaluation frameworks into enterprise AI development workflows.

Requirements

• Master’s or PhD degree in data science or a related field is required, with a preference for candidates that have specialized in the technical aspects of responsible AI / responsible innovation (e.g., fairness and explainability techniques, responsible AI evaluation and alignment research, etc.).
• 7+ years of experience in data science or a related field is required, with a defined specialization in responsible AI / responsible innovation for at least 3 years.
• Experience in model development (ML/data science, AI/GenAI), as well as data cleaning and preparation, with direct experience in financial services or technology sectors preferred.
• Proficiency in Python and SQL, TensorFlow, PyTorch, XGBoost, scikit-learn.
• Strong grasp of AI and ML frameworks and stacks.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and CI/CD pipelines is advantageous.
• Track record of research, publications, or other contributions to the field of Responsible AI (e.g., responsible AI, AI safety, alignment, or interpretability research) would be an asset.

Key Behaviors

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with an aptitude for data-driven decision-making.
• Strong communication skills to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.
• Proven ability to lead and mentor team members, with a commitment to fostering professional growth, knowledge sharing, and a culture of continuous development.
• Demonstrated passion for advancing responsible innovation.

What We Offer:

• Opportunity to lead pioneering responsible AI initiatives in a forward-thinking, innovative banking environment.
• A unique opportunity to apply your expertise in a high-impact data science role.
• Commitment to professional growth, continuous learning, and career development.
• Collaborative culture focused on diversity, inclusion, and innovation.

The above represents BMO Financial Group’s pay range and type.

Salaries will vary based on factors such as location, skills, experience, education, and qualifications for the role, and may include a commission structure. Salaries for part-time roles will be pro-rated based on number of hours regularly worked. For commission roles, the salary listed above represents BMO Financial Group’s expected target for the first year in this position.

BMO Financial Group’s total compensation package will vary based on the pay type of the position and may include performance-based incentives, discretionary bonuses, as well as other perks and rewards. BMO also offers health insurance, tuition reimbursement, accident and life insurance, and retirement savings plans. To view more details of our benefits, please visit: https://jobs.bmo.com/global/en/Total-Rewards

About Us

At BMO we are driven by a shared Purpose: Boldly Grow the Good in business and life. It calls on us to create lasting, positive change for our customers, our communities and our people. By working together, innovating and pushing boundaries, we transform lives and businesses, and power economic growth around the world.

As a member of the BMO team you are valued, respected and heard, and you have more ways to grow and make an impact. We strive to help you make an impact from day one – for yourself and our customers. We’ll support you with the tools and resources you need to reach new milestones, as you help our customers reach theirs. From in-depth training and coaching, to manager support and network-building opportunities, we’ll help you gain valuable experience, and broaden your skillset.

To find out more visit us at https://jobs.bmo.com/ca/en.

BMO is committed to an inclusive, equitable and accessible workplace. By learning from each other’s differences, we gain strength through our people and our perspectives. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. To request accommodation, please contact your recruiter.

Note to Recruiters: BMO does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. Any unsolicited resumes sent to BMO, directly or indirectly, will be considered BMO property. BMO will not pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume. A recruiting agency must first have a valid, written and fully executed agency agreement contract for service to submit resumes.