Applied Scientist
The Team
Upstart’s Machine Learning team applies machine learning and statistical methods to improve how we evaluate risk and make lending decisions. The team combines scientific research, experimentation, and engineering to develop models that support Upstart’s mission of expanding access to affordable credit.
As an Applied Scientist at Upstart, you will develop and evaluate machine learning models that address meaningful business problems. You will collaborate with scientists, engineers, and cross-functional partners to translate complex data into modeling improvements and measurable outcomes.
How you’ll make an impact
Develop, train, and evaluate machine learning models to improve predictive performance and support lending decisions.
Analyze large datasets to identify patterns, develop features, and inform modeling approaches.
Design and execute experiments to assess model performance, validate hypotheses, and identify opportunities for improvement.
Collaborate with scientists and engineers to implement, monitor, and refine models in production environments.
Document methodologies, communicate findings, and contribute to reproducible scientific workflows.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
0–2 years of experience in machine learning, applied statistics, or a related quantitative field.
Experience developing or evaluating machine learning models using Python.
Experience applying statistical methods, including hypothesis testing, regression, or predictive modeling, to quantitative datasets.
Preferred Qualifications
Advanced degree, ideally a PhD, in mathematics, applied mathematics, statistics, physics, econometrics, operations research, computer science, or a related quantitative field.
Knowledge of supervised learning techniques, model evaluation, and feature engineering.
Familiarity with machine learning frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, or scikit-learn.
Experience working with large-scale datasets using SQL or distributed data processing tools.
Ability to communicate modeling approaches and experimental results to technical and nontechnical audiences.
Position location This role is available in the following locations: Remote
Travel requirements As a digital first company, the majority of your work can be accomplished remotely. The majority of our employees can live and work anywhere in the U.S but are encouraged to to still spend high quality time in-person collaborating via regular onsites. The in-person sessions’ cadence varies depending on the team and role; most teams meet once or twice per quarter for 2-4 consecutive days at a time.
#LI-REMOTE
#LI-Associate
At Upstart, your base pay is one part of your total compensation package. The anticipated base salary for this position is expected to be within the below range. Your actual base pay will depend on your geographic location–with our “digital first” philosophy, Upstart uses compensation regions that vary depending on location. Individual pay is also determined by job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.
In addition, Upstart provides employees with target bonuses, equity compensation, and generous benefits packages (including medical, dental, vision, and 401k).
United States | Remote - Anticipated Base Salary Range
$141,500—$196,000 USD
At Upstart, your base pay is one part of your total compensation package. The anticipated base salary for this position is expected to be within the below range. Your actual base pay will depend on your geographic location–with our “digital first” philosophy, Upstart uses compensation regions that vary depending on location. Individual pay is also determined by job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.
In addition, Upstart provides employees with target bonuses, equity compensation, and generous benefits packages (including medical, dental, vision, and 401k).
Canada | Remote - Anticipated Base Salary Range
$130,900—$160,000 CAD