[Remote] Senior Data Scientist - Reinforcement Learning

Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. EXL is seeking a Senior Data Scientist specializing in Reinforcement Learning to design and develop models that optimize collections strategies and customer treatment paths. The role involves building adaptive decisioning systems, collaborating with business stakeholders, and mentoring junior data scientists.ResponsibilitiesDesign and develop Reinforcement Learning models to optimize collections strategies, customer treatment paths, and recovery outcomesBuild adaptive decisioning systems using techniques such as: + Q-Learning + Deep Q Networks (DQN) + Policy Gradient Methods + Contextual Bandits + Markov Decision Processes (MDP)Develop sequential and behavioral models for customer engagement, repayment prediction, and collections prioritizationApply stochastic modeling and probabilistic methods to optimize dynamic treatment strategies under uncertaintyCollaborate with business stakeholders to translate collections and risk management problems into scalable AI/ML solutionsBuild and maintain machine learning pipelines in Databricks or similar distributed computing environmentsConduct experimentation, simulation, and offline policy evaluation to validate RL strategies before deploymentWork with large-scale structured and unstructured datasets to derive actionable insights and improve operational performancePartner with engineering and MLOps teams to deploy and monitor production-grade ML/RL modelsMentor junior data scientists and promote best practices in modeling, experimentation, and AI governanceSkillsStrong experience in Reinforcement Learning and sequential decision-making systemsHands-on expertise with: Reinforcement Learning algorithms (Q-Learning, DQN, PPO, Bandits, etc.)Markov Decision Processes (MDP)Stochastic modeling and probabilistic systemsMachine learning and predictive modelingExperimentation and simulation frameworksStrong programming skills in Python and SQLExperience with Databricks, Spark, or similar big data/cloud analytics platformsExperience building scalable ML pipelines and deploying models into production environmentsStrong understanding of feature engineering, model validation, and performance optimizationAbility to communicate complex AI/ML concepts to technical and non-technical stakeholdersExperience in collections, credit risk, customer analytics, or financial services domainsFamiliarity with: Deep Learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch)MLOps and CI/CD workflowsReal-time decision systemsCloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCPExposure to causal inference, uplift modeling, or optimization techniquesKnowledge of customer lifecycle analytics and behavioral segmentationExperience working in Agile delivery environmentsCompany OverviewEXL is a provider of Transformation and Outsourcing services to Global 1000 companies in multiple industries It was founded in 1999, and is headquartered in New York, New York, USA, with a workforce of 10001+ employees. Its website is http://www.exlservice.com.Company H1B SponsorshipEXL has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships, with 1 in 2025, 1 in 2020. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role.