Expert Data Scientist

Canadian National Railway

At CN, we work together to move our company—and North America—forward. Be part of our Information & Technology (I&T) team, a critical piece of the engine that keeps us in motion.

From enterprise architecture to operational technology, our teams use the agile methodology to automate and digitize our railroad ensuring our operations run optimally and safely and our employees can focus on value-added tasks. You will be able to develop your skills and career in our close-knit, safety-focused culture working together as ONE TEAM.

The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us!
Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced Expert Data Scientist to join our dynamic team.

The ideal candidate will have 5-8 years of hands-on experience in data science, with a proven track record of delivering impactful solutions using advanced analytics and machine learning techniques. This role requires strong expertise in Python, PySpark, Databricks, Java and other relevant technologies, along with a deep understanding of statistical analysis, predictive modeling, and data visualization.
Key Responsibilities:
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and prioritize business problems that can be solved using data science methodologies.
Utilize advanced analytics techniques to extract insights from large, complex datasets and develop predictive models to support decision-making processes.
Develop and maintain scalable machine learning pipelines using Python, PySpark, and other relevant tools and frameworks.
Communicate findings and insights effectively to technical and non-technical stakeholders through clear visualizations, presentations, and reports.
Stay current with the latest advancements in data science and technology, and proactively identify opportunities to apply emerging techniques to solve business challenges.
Take ownership of projects and provide end-to-end solutions, from initial problem definition to model deployment and monitoring.
Design and implement end-to-end data science solutions, from data collection and preprocessing to model development and deployment, ensuring alignment with business objectives and requirements.
Demonstrate a hands-on approach to problem-solving, leveraging technical expertise and creativity to overcome challenges and deliver innovative solutions.
Work closely with data engineers to optimize data infrastructure and ensure the availability and reliability of data for analysis, identifying opportunities for improvement and optimization.
Conduct thorough experimentation and evaluation of machine learning models to ensure robustness, accuracy, and generalization, iterating as necessary to achieve desired outcomes.
Communicate findings and insights effectively to technical and non-technical stakeholders through clear visualizations, presentations, and reports, fostering understanding and buy-in for data-driven initiatives.
Stay current with the latest advancements in data science and technology, and proactively identify opportunities to apply emerging techniques to solve business challenges, driving continuous improvement and innovation.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or related field; advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) preferred.
5-8 years of hands-on experience in data science, with a strong focus on machine learning, predictive analytics, and statistical modeling.
Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, along with experience using libraries and frameworks such as Pandas, NumPy, SciPy, Scikit-learn, and TensorFlow/PyTorch.
Strong knowledge in Java programming language.
Extensive experience working with big data technologies, including PySpark, Databricks, and Apache Spark, for large-scale data processing and analysis.
Strong understanding of database systems and SQL, with the ability to write complex queries for data extraction and manipulation.
Experience with cloud platforms such as Azure, or Google Cloud Platform, and familiarity with services such as Databricks Workspace.
Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions.
Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
Proven track record of delivering high-quality, actionable insights and solutions that drive business value.
Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git) and software development best practices is a plus.
This position is posted as a grade LEVEL 7.

For internal candidates, note that the grade level of the position may adjust based on the employee’s experience.
About CN
CN is a world-class transportation leader and trade-enabler. Essential to the economy, to the customers, and to the communities it serves, CN safely transports more than 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America every year.

As the only railroad connecting Canada’s Eastern and Western coasts with the Southern tip of the U.S. through a 19,500 mile rail network, CN and its affiliates have been contributing to community prosperity and sustainable trade since 1919. CN is committed to programs supporting social responsibility and environmental stewardship.

At CN, we work as ONE TEAM, focused on safety, sustainability and our customers, providing operational and supply chain excellence to deliver results.
At CN, we are dedicated to building North America’s safest, most inclusive and sustainable railroad, which includes reflecting the communities in which we operate. Research shows that candidates from underrepresented groups often don’t apply unless they feel they fit the job posting at 100%.

Even if you don’t see yourself in every job requirement listed in a posting, we still encourage you to apply. If you require an accommodation for the recruitment process (including alternate formats of materials, accessible meeting rooms or other accommodations), please reach out to our team at cnrecruitment@cn.ca.
As an equal employment opportunity employer, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only candidates under consideration will be contacted. Please monitor your email on a regular basis, as communication is primarily made through email.