Principal Data Scientist (Machine Learning & AI)

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Published
May 21, 2026
Location
Madrid, Spain
Category
Job Type

Principal Data Scientist (Machine Learning & AI): our view in 3 lines...

  • The Role: Lead technical design and deployment of advanced machine learning and generative AI solutions for regulated financial services.
  • The Person: Lead development and deployment of machine learning models, architect agentic workflows and LLM-based systems, ensure regulatory compliance, and mentor junior data scientists while collaborating with product, engineering, and compliance teams.
  • Requirements: Strong expertise in Machine Learning, hands-on experience with agentic systems and Generative AI and LLMs, experience in regulated financial environments, and proficiency in Python.

Job Description

Company Description

SBS works with more than 1,500 banks, building societies and specialized finance providers across more than 80 countries worldwide. We help them to develop, deliver and operationalise their digital transformation strategies. Using our suite of digital banking products and services enables these organisations to deliver remarkable financial services to their clients.

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking a highly experienced Principal Data Scientist to lead the design and deployment of advanced machine learning and AI solutions within a regulated financial environment. This role will drive innovation across agentic workflows and generative AI systems while ensuring compliance with financial regulations.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the development and deployment of machine learning models for financial applications.
  • Architect and implement agentic workflows for autonomous decision-making systems.
  • Design and scale Generative AI solutions, including LLM-based systems.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to translate business requirements and regulatory constraints into technical solutions.
  • Ensure all models and systems comply with financial regulations and governance standards.
  • Mentor and guide junior data scientists and engineers.
  • Work cross-functionally with engineering, product, and compliance teams.

Qualifications

Required Skills & Experience

  • Strong expertise in Machine Learning (core competency).
  • Hands-on experience with agentic systems / autonomous workflows.
  • Proven experience with Generative AI and LLMs.
  • Experience working in regulated financial environments (e.g., banking, fintech).
  • Proficiency in Python.

Preferred Skills

  • Experience with Java.
  • Familiarity with MLOps, model governance, and risk frameworks.
  • Experience leading technical teams or projects.

Additional Information

At SBS, we’re committed to supporting our employees in every aspect of their lives, from health and wellbeing to financial security and lifestyle perks. Here’s a snapshot of the benefits you'll enjoy as part of our team:

  • Competitive salary
  • Health & Wellbeing: Private Medical Insurance, Health Cash Plan, Dental Insurance, Eye Care Vouchers, Flu Vaccinations
  • Finance & Protection: Life Assurance, Critical Illness Cover, Pension Plan, Long Service Awards, Payroll Giving, Fleet car provider
  • Leisure & Lifestyle: Cycle to Work Scheme, Holiday Trading, Travel Insurance

We are committed to fighting against all forms of discrimination and fostering a work environment that is inclusive and respectful of all differences.

Adquirimos el compromiso de respetar la diversidad, creando un ambiente de trabajo inclusivo y aplicando políticas que favorezcan la inclusión y promuevan el respeto social y cultural en cuestiones de género, edad, funcional, orientación sexual y religión con igualdad de oportunidades.

Key Skills
? Key Skills in dark blue have been inferred based on similar industry roles
Large Language Models (llms) Mlops Model Governance Agentic Systems / Autonomous Workflows Java Digital Transformation Fintech Python Machine Learning LLM

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