Whisker, formerly known as AutoPets, is the maker of Litter-Robot, Feeder-Robot, and Litterbox.com. At Whisker, we believe pet parenthood can always get better.

As leading innovators in pet tech and refined pet accessories, we work tirelessly to solve problems and deliver smarter insights for pet parents while enriching the lives of pets. Whether it’s a self-cleaning litter box that automates scooping, an automatic feeder that helps pets develop healthier eating habits, or a modern cat tree that delights both humans and felines, we strive to deliver better solutions for consumers while transforming pet care along the way. To us, having a pet is the best thing ever. At Whisker, life together just keeps getting better.

Whisker is based in Auburn Hills, Michigan and Juneau, Wisconsin with 450+ passionate team members.

What You’ll Do:

The Data Scientist will play a pivotal role in Whisker’s data-driven decision-making process and will be responsible for leading and executing complex data science projects, utilizing expertise in statistical analysis, machine learning, and data modeling. The Data Scientist’s deep understanding of data extraction, manipulation, and interpretation will contribute to the development of innovative solutions that drive business growth and optimize operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

This list of duties and responsibilities is not all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities as deemed necessary.

Data Analysis and Modeling:

• Applies advanced statistical techniques and machine learning algorithms to analyze large datasets, uncover patterns, trends, and insights, and builds predictive models 
• Collaborates with cross-functional teams to extract meaningful business implications from the data

Project Leadership:

• Takes the lead on data science initiatives, from inception to completion 
• Defines project scopes, sets milestones, and allocates resources effectively to ensure timely and accurate delivery of solutions

Machine Learning and AI: 

• Develops, implements, and optimizes machine learning algorithms to solve complex business problems. 
• Ideates and executes on projects that involve natural language processing, computer vision, recommendation systems, and other cutting-edge technologies

Data Visualization: 

• Communicates findings and results effectively through clear and compelling data visualizations, making complex concepts accessible to both technical and non-technical stakeholders

Model Deployment: 

• Collaborates with software engineering teams to integrate machine learning models into production systems, ensuring scalability, performance, and maintainability

Data Governance and Ethics:

• Upholds data governance principles and adheres to ethical practices while handling sensitive and confidential data

Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing:

• Provides guidance and mentorship to junior data scientists, fostering their growth and development
• Contributes to the organization's knowledge base by sharing insights, best practices, and emerging trends in the data science field

Continuous Learning: 

• Stays updated on the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and related fields, and identifies opportunities to apply new methodologies to existing projects

Will perform additional responsibilities when required 

What You’ll Bring:

• BA / BS / MS Degree in Math, Statistics, Computer Science or equivalent years of experience
• 3+ years in a Data Engineering, Data Science Role
• Experience with data visualization tools like Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, Plotly, and Seaborn
• Experience with statistical analysis tools like SciPy, SAS, and MATLAB
• Experience with big data technologies (Domo, Snowflake, QuickSight)
• Experience with ETL fundamentals and building efficient data pipelines
• Experience with cloud services: Google and AWS Experience with object-oriented/object function scripting languages (Python)
• Maintains confidentiality of proprietary information
• Ability to maintain a professional atmosphere in a fast-paced environment with numerous interactions and interruptions
• A high degree of initiative, self-motivation, and ability to motivate others
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with Team Members and colleagues

Not Required but Nice to Have!

• Current or previous pet parent
• Experience implementing a production data pipeline, at scale on a live, customer-facing product, from the ground up

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands described here represent those that a Team Member must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the Team Member is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The Team Member is frequently required to use their hands to handle or feel. The Team Member is occasionally required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. The Team Member must lift and/or move up to 35 pounds and occasionally up to 75 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that a Team Member encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Benefits & Perks:

Join a tenacious, inventive company that empowers team members to chart their own path, lead by grounding decisions in the “why”, and has a strong sense of empathy and openness to new perspectives. Be a part of exciting growth, work with incredible people, and create tomorrow’s pet products—plus a whole lot of extras. You will also be provided with:

• Premium Medical/Dental/Vision insurance
• Life Insurance
• PTO
• 14 Paid Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• 401K with 4% Match
• Flexible Work Arrangements
• Top of the line equipment

Statement of Inclusivity:

We believe different perspectives make Whisker better and strive to create a place where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive.

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