Data Scientist II, Senior or Principal

Job Specifications

Black Hills Energy is people powered and purpose driven. Our team uses the power of energy to improve life for over one million customers in 800+ communities across the West and Midwest. We seek talented, caring people who embody our core values and contribute to a culture of inclusion and growth. As an organization, we believe the best part of working on our team is our commitment to making tomorrow better than today—for our customers, communities and each other.

Position summary:

The Data Scientist II will be engaged in statistical forecasting, mathematical optimization, machine learning, and artificial intelligence projects. This position will collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and deploy scalable AI- and technology-enabled solutions that enhance productivity, decision-making, and business outcomes. The Data Scientist II will be dedicated to increasing technical proficiency, staying apprised of the latest industry developments, and evaluating innovative technologies that can deliver measurable value to the organization.

Pay Range: This posting includes the full pay range for this position. Pay is based on a number of factors and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and internal equity.
Level II: $79,400 - $119,100
Senior: $97,150 - $160,150
Principal: $116,500 - $192,400

Reporting Relationship: Manager, Enterprise Data Science

Location: Our Company Headquarters in Rapid City, South Dakota.

Relocation Assistance: Relocation assistance is available based on individual circumstances! Details to be shared during the offer process.

Essential Functions:
• Builds robust computer programs to enable repeatable and efficient analysis using R and/or Python.
• Leverages machine learning, advanced statistics, and artificial intelligence to build predictive models, develop forecasts, and quantify complex relationships within data.
• Leverages large language models and generative AI tools
• Builds data pipelines and database objects within a SQL Server database using data engineering best practices.
• Uses SQL to efficiently query and update data.
• Strong professional communication skills, including the ability to explain model design, risks, and outputs, and the ability to collaborate within the team to create optimal products.
• Knowledge of best-practice model risk management: validation, testing, and control standards, including testing of assumptions, computational accuracy, and documentation of model weaknesses and risks.

Additional Responsibilities:
• Continuous pursuit of innovative knowledge and skills in the fields of statistics, economics, operations research, computer science, and data science.

What Is Required:
Level II:
• Bachelor's Degree Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 3 years of data science experience.
Senior:
• Master's Degree Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of data science experience.
Principal:
• Master's Degree Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 8 years of data science experience.

What Is Desired:
• Experience prototyping and developing applications in R and/or Python.
• Experience developing projects using machine learning, advanced statistics, and artificial intelligence (AI).
• Experience using large language models and generative AI tools.
• Experience¿utilizing data engineering concepts and techniques.
• Experience using SQL to query and update data and build database objects.

This description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, duties, and requirements for employees in this position. Job descriptions may and do change periodically. Where positions are covered by a collective bargaining unit agreement, the terms and conditions of the agreement will apply.

About our Company: We are a customer, growth and safety focused utility company that is dedicated to our communities. We improve life with energy as an energy partner of choice. Our diverse culture fuels unique perspectives, opening doors to new insights and possibilities. Based in Rapid City, South Dakota, we have over 3000 employees and serve 1.3 million natural gas and electric utility customers across eight states (South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Arkansas).

Enjoy our Comprehensive Benefits Package! Annual discretionary bonuses, 401(k) (6% company match and up to 9% company retirement contribution), tuition reimbursement, generous paid time off benefits, including paid holidays and parental leave, company paid life insurance and disability benefits (short and long term), critical illness, accident & group hospital insurance, pet insurance, an employee assistance program and well-being benefits, and competitive medical, dental and vision insurance.

Candidates must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check. If there is anything that may show up in these reports that may conflict with the position requirements, feel free to contact the Black Hills Energy recruiting team at jobs@blackhillscorp.com.

Black Hills Energy does not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or status as a protected veteran. If you require reasonable accommodation, please visit careers.blackhillsenergy.com for more information.