Data Scientist I - Fraud
Location: Hybird, Plano, TX

Job Description:

Location: San Antonio, TX | Plano, TX | Phoenix, AZ | Colorado Springs, CO | Charlotte, NC | Tampa, FL (Hybrid: 4 days in-office)
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: $114,080 - $205,340


Why Join USAA?

At USAA, we’re not just providing financial services—we’re empowering our military families and veterans to achieve financial security. As a Data Scientist I in the Fraud Detection team, you’ll be at the forefront of protecting our members from fraud while innovating with cutting-edge AI and machine learning technologies.

We're driven by our core values—honesty, integrity, loyalty, and service—and those values guide everything we do. By joining us, you’ll be part of an organization that believes in making a real difference in people’s lives, while providing you the flexibility and growth opportunities to build a fulfilling career.


What You'll Do:

As a Data Scientist I, you'll play a key role in the development and enhancement of fraud detection models that protect our members from fraud across a wide range of services, including credit cards, debit cards, digital payments, and claims disputes.

  • Model Development & Innovation: Continuously improve and develop internal fraud detection models, utilizing techniques from basic statistics to advanced AI/ML approaches. Your work will directly reduce fraud losses and improve member experiences.
  • Collaborate & Innovate: Work with Strategy and Model Management teams to refine fraud detection strategies and keep models at the cutting edge.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with the broader analytics community to share insights, techniques, and best practices.
  • Business Insights: Translate complex data and models into business action by communicating outcomes to non-technical business teams, focusing on recommendations and actionable results.
  • Deploy Scalable Solutions: Develop automated, scalable solutions using machine learning, simulation, and optimization to solve complex business problems.
  • Modeling & Risk Management: Work within established Model Risk Management (MRM) frameworks, ensuring best practices and compliance with risk management standards.
  • Continuous Learning: Stay up-to-date with emerging techniques and technologies, and actively seek new opportunities to learn and innovate in the fraud detection space.

What You Bring:

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, computer science, statistics, economics, or related quantitative field; OR 4+ years of relevant experience.
  • Experience:
    • 4 years of experience in predictive analytics, data analysis, or machine learning.
    • 2 years of experience with machine learning model development, including training, validating, and scoring models.
    • Proficiency in Python, R, or similar scripting languages for model building and statistical analysis.
    • Strong experience in querying and preprocessing data using languages like SQL, NoSQL, or HQL.
    • Experience with supervised and unsupervised modeling techniques (e.g., regression, clustering, decision trees, SVMs).
  • Fraud Expertise: Experience or interest in fraud detection, financial crimes model development, or risk management in the financial sector.
  • Communication Skills: Ability to translate technical insights into clear, actionable recommendations for business stakeholders.

What Sets You Apart:

  • Military Affiliation: Military service experience or as a military spouse/domestic partner—you understand the unique needs of the military community.
  • Advanced Education: A graduate degree in a quantitative subject (e.g., PhD or Master’s in data science or related field).
  • Fraud Experience: Hands-on experience in fraud detection or financial crimes model development would be a big plus.
  • Continuous Learner: A strong drive to keep up with the latest innovations in machine learning and AI, especially as they relate to fraud prevention and financial security.

Why USAA?

At USAA, we don’t just offer jobs; we offer careers. Our best-in-class benefits ensure you and your family are taken care of. From comprehensive healthcare to parental benefits, financial wellness programs, and education assistance, USAA is dedicated to supporting you in all aspects of your life.

  • Flexible Work Environment: While we do require 4 days in-office per week, you’ll enjoy flexibility and work-life balance.
  • Career Development: We’re committed to helping you grow in your field with training and mentorship.
  • Competitive Compensation: We offer a competitive salary and incentive programs based on individual and company performance.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you’re excited about the idea of protecting our members from fraud using advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI, we want to hear from you!

Apply today and become a part of a team that values innovation, integrity, and impact.


USAA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and inclusion and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone is respected, heard, and supported.


Key Skills:

  • Data Scientist I - Fraud