Data Scientist I - Space Optimization

Location: San Antonio, TX (Hybrid or Remote Options Available)
Job Type: Full-Time
Compensation: Competitive salary + benefits + Employee Ownership


H-E-B is Looking for a Data Scientist Who Thinks Big – Will You Answer the Call?

At H-E-B, we're not just about groceries – we're about building innovative, data-driven solutions that shape the future of retail. Our Corporate Planning and Analysis team is at the heart of this innovation, and we're looking for a Data Scientist I to help us optimize space planning and operations using cutting-edge ML and AI techniques. If you're passionate about creating custom algorithms, fine-tuning AI models, and helping make data-driven decisions that impact the business, we want you on our team!

As a Data Scientist I, you'll blend your machine learning (ML) expertise with your analytical skills to develop, optimize, and deploy end-to-end solutions for space optimization across our retail environment. You'll use your skills in optimization, mathematical programming, and AI to create unique, H-E-B-specific differentiators that directly contribute to business performance.


What You'll Do:

  • Optimization at Scale:
    You'll work with sophisticated mathematical programming techniques, like linear, non-linear, and stochastic optimization, to solve complex space optimization problems.

  • Apply Metaheuristics & Network Optimization:
    Use metaheuristic algorithms such as Simulated Annealing (SA), Tabu Search (TS), and Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) to find the best solutions for routing, space allocation, and flow optimization in retail operations.

  • Design & Develop Reusable ML Pipelines:
    Leverage best-in-class AI and ML techniques to customize algorithms and integrate them into end-to-end ML pipelines. You'll optimize each phase of the process, from model development to deployment and real-world application.

  • Refine & Optimize ML Models:
    You’ll focus on refactoring and optimizing algorithms based on the target platform to maximize performance and ensure efficient model deployment in the cloud or on-premise systems.

  • Innovate with the Latest AI Techniques:
    Stay at the cutting edge of AI by extending techniques from the latest academic papers, industry trends, and open-source algorithms to enhance H-E-B's operations.

  • Collaborate Across Teams:
    Partner with cross-functional teams to deliver data-driven solutions that drive operational efficiencies and support strategic decision-making across the business.


What You’ll Bring:

  • A Passion for AI & Data Science:
    You have at least 3 years of experience working in a retail-related decision science role, where you’ve successfully applied machine learning to complex problems and built customized, high-impact algorithms.

  • Strong Technical Skills:
    You’re comfortable with Python, R, Scala, or Java, and you’re proficient in SQL. You have hands-on experience with big data ecosystems (Spark, Hadoop) and tools like Gurobi, Cplex, or Google-OR-Tools.

  • Expertise in Optimization:
    You have a solid understanding of optimization techniques, including linear programming, network optimization, and discrete event simulation, and are eager to apply these to real-world retail challenges.

  • Machine Learning Mastery:
    You have a deep understanding of deep learning, computer vision, natural language processing (NLP), reinforcement learning, and federated learning. Your ability to apply GPU optimization, SparkMLlib, and Horovod to solve real business problems is second to none.

  • Critical & Lateral Thinking:
    You love solving complex problems with creativity and precision. You possess the ability to grow expertise in constructing distributed machine learning pipelines from scratch.

  • A Willingness to Learn & Teach:
    You’re always evolving and eager to expand your skills. At the same time, you’re passionate about sharing your expertise, guiding team members, and translating complex findings to business stakeholders.


What We Offer:

  • Ownership in the Company:
    At H-E-B, you’re not just an employee – you’re a partner-owner. Once eligible, you’ll become part of our ownership program, giving you a stake in the company’s future and success.

  • Innovative Work Environment:
    Work in an inspiring environment where fresh ideas are encouraged, and technology drives our success. We believe in collaboration, continuous learning, and continuous improvement.

  • Comprehensive Benefits Package:
    Enjoy robust benefits including health coverage, retirement savings plans, tuition reimbursement, and much more to help you maintain a balanced and fulfilling life.

  • A Career That Evolves With You:
    At H-E-B, we don’t just want you to grow – we want you to thrive. You’ll have endless opportunities to expand your skills, take on new challenges, and shape the future of retail.


Are You Ready to Join the H-E-B Team?

If you have a heart for people, a head for business, and a passion for results, then we want to hear from you! We’re looking for a Data Scientist who isn’t just skilled with algorithms but is also eager to take part in a customer-focused, results-driven environment.


Key Skills:

  • Data Scientist I - Space Optimization
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