Join Optum, a global leader dedicated to improving health outcomes through innovative technology. As an Associate Director of Data Science within the Payment Integrity Decision Intelligence (PIDI) organization, you will lead a team focused on driving impactful data science and AI initiatives. This role is crucial for enhancing analytical capabilities and delivering measurable business value across payment integrity programs. You'll foster a culture of innovation and scientific rigor, implementing best practices in model development and deployment. Collaborate with global teams to advance the future of health optimization.

This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on communities by optimizing health. You will be part of a supportive environment that values inclusion, offers comprehensive benefits, and provides excellent career development prospects. Come be a part of our mission to Care, Connect, and Grow together.

Lead and mentor a team of Data Scientists and AIML professionals to deliver cutting-edge AI and Machine Learning solutions for payment integrity.

Develop and execute strategic roadmaps, translating business objectives into actionable plans for high-quality analytical solutions.

Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to identify high-value opportunities and drive the adoption of data science insights.

Oversee the end-to-end AIML lifecycle, from problem formulation and model development to deployment and continuous improvement.

Champion advanced analytics methodologies, including deep learning and anomaly detection, to address complex healthcare challenges.

Drive innovation by exploring emerging AI techniques and translating research into production-ready solutions.

Uphold Responsible AI practices, ensuring ethical, safe, and business-aligned AIML deployments.

A Graduate degree in a quantitative field such as Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, or Artificial Intelligence is required, with a Master's or PhD preferred.

Possess over 12 years of experience in Data Science, Advanced Analytics, and AIML, including 6+ years of leadership experience.

Demonstrate 8+ years of hands-on programming proficiency in Python, R, SAS, and SQL, with experience in distributed computing frameworks.

Proven expertise in applying machine learning to healthcare or other critical domains, with a strong track record of end-to-end AIML solution delivery from concept to production.

Experience with cloud-based AIML platforms like Azure AI or Azure Databricks is essential.

Familiarity with MLOps, Model Governance, Responsible AI, and AI Risk Management frameworks is necessary.

Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and influencing skills are critical for success in this role.