Senior Staff Machine Learning Engineer
WFA Digital Insight
As demand for AI and machine learning specialists grows, companies like Zendesk are investing heavily in talent. With a 25% increase in ML engineer hiring in the past year, this role is a standout opportunity. Zendesk's commitment to innovation and customer service makes it an attractive employer, especially with the flexibility of remote work. Before applying, candidates should be prepared to showcase their technical expertise and research leadership, as well as their ability to drive adoption of ML/AI solutions at scale.
Job Description
About the Role
The Senior Staff Machine Learning Engineer will play a critical role in advancing the state-of-the-art in ML/AI for customer service at Zendesk. This involves leading the research vision, mentoring scientists, and driving the adoption of foundational models that power Zendesk's most impactful features. The successful candidate will be part of a global team, working closely with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for ML/AI adoption and develop solutions that drive business impact.As a senior member of the team, the Senior Staff Machine Learning Engineer will be responsible for technical and research leadership, guiding the development of ML/AI solutions and ensuring that they meet the highest standards of quality and reliability. This role requires a deep understanding of machine learning, statistics, and software engineering, as well as excellent communication and collaboration skills.
The Senior Staff Machine Learning Engineer will also be responsible for staying up-to-date with the latest developments in ML/AI, identifying opportunities for innovation, and developing strategic plans for the adoption of new technologies.
What You Will Do
- Lead the research vision for ML/AI in customer service, identifying opportunities for innovation and developing strategic plans for adoption
- Mentor scientists and engineers, providing technical guidance and oversight to ensure the successful development and deployment of ML/AI solutions
- Drive the adoption of foundational models that power Zendesk's most impactful features, working closely with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities and develop solutions
- Develop and maintain large-scale ML/AI systems, ensuring that they meet the highest standards of quality and reliability
- Collaborate with data scientists and engineers to design and implement experiments, analyze results, and develop recommendations for business stakeholders
- Develop and maintain software applications and tools, using languages such as Python and frameworks such as PyTorch
- Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in ML/AI, attending conferences and workshops, and publishing research papers
- Develop strategic plans for the adoption of new technologies, identifying opportunities for innovation and growth
- Work closely with business stakeholders to identify opportunities for ML/AI adoption and develop solutions that drive business impact
- Develop and maintain relationships with external partners, collaborating on research and development projects
What We Are Looking For
- MSc degree in computer science, electrical engineering, math, or related areas
- Substantial track record of impactful research and deployment of ML/AI solutions at scale
- Proven technical and research leadership across projects and teams
- Deep expertise in experimental design, statistical analysis, and ML science best practices
- Strong coding skills in Python
- Experience with ML frameworks, preferably PyTorch
- Experience with large-scale experimentation, data analysis, and performance tracking
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, prioritizing multiple projects and deadlines
Nice to Have
- Experience with cloud-based technologies, such as AWS or Google Cloud
- Knowledge of software development methodologies, such as Agile or Scrum
- Experience with data visualization tools, such as Tableau or Power BI
- Familiarity with DevOps practices, such as continuous integration and deployment
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive compensation and benefits package
- Flexible work arrangement, with opportunity to work remotely for part of the week
- Hybrid way of working, with a mix of remote and in-office work
- Access to cutting-edge technology and tools
- Professional development opportunities, including training and education
- Opportunity to work with a global team, collaborating on research and development projects
- Recognition and rewards for outstanding performance and contributions
- Comprehensive health and wellness program, including medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
How to Stand Out
- Tip: Develop a strong understanding of machine learning and statistics, including experimental design and statistical analysis.
- Tip: Showcase your technical expertise and research leadership through publications, presentations, or open-source projects.
- Tip: Highlight your ability to drive adoption of ML/AI solutions at scale, including experience with large-scale experimentation and data analysis.
- Tip: Prepare to discuss your experience with ML frameworks, such as PyTorch, and your ability to develop and maintain large-scale ML/AI systems.
- Tip: Emphasize your excellent communication and collaboration skills, including experience working with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
- Tip: Research Zendesk's technology stack and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with the company's needs and goals.
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