Principal Applied Scientist

Job Description

We are seeking a highly independent, senior-level Applied Scientist to lead research-driven initiatives focused on solving complex, novel problems through advanced modeling and optimization. This role is not traditional analytics or data engineering — it is centered on innovation, experimentation, and translating new ideas into functional solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead end-to-end research initiatives, from ideation through prototyping and applied implementation

Develop and evaluate novel algorithms, optimization models, and mathematical approaches for complex systems

Operate autonomously to identify problems, propose solutions, and execute with minimal direction

Partner with software engineers to translate research outputs into scalable, production-ready solutions

Contribute to new concept development and innovation pipelines, not just incremental improvements

Communicate complex technical findings clearly to non-technical stakeholders and cross-functional teams

Team Structure & Environment:

Typically operates within a small, high-impact team model:

1 Applied Scientist (this role) leading research

Supported by 2–3 Software Engineers for build and execution

Fast-paced environment with rapid experimentation and iteration cycles

Streamlined interview process reflecting urgency and high-volume demand

What Success Looks Like:

• Independently drives high-impact research initiatives that lead to measurable improvements

• Translates new ideas into working solutions, not just theoretical outputs

• Acts as a thought partner and innovation driver within the team

• Enables faster movement from concept → prototype → usable solution

Pay Rate: $100/hr

We are a company committed to creating diverse and inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day. We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment regardless of their race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, genetic factors, age, disability, protected veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to [email protected] learn more about how we collect, keep, and process your private information, please review Insight Global's Workforce Privacy Policy: https://insightglobal.com/workforce-privacy-policy/.

Skills and Requirements

7–12+ years of experience in applied science, R&D, or advanced modeling environments

Strong foundation in mathematics, optimization, statistics, and algorithm development

Background in a physical or engineering discipline (e.g., physics, engineering, meteorology, applied math)

Proven experience working on ambiguous, open-ended problems with minimal structure

Demonstrated ability to own research initiatives independently and drive outcomes

Proficiency in Python or similar languages, with strong understanding of modeling toolkits

Experience collaborating with engineering teams to operationalize models Experience in high-impact R&D environments or innovation teams

Exposure to optimization in complex or real-time systems

Familiarity with AI-assisted development tools (e.g., coding copilots)

Experience working in Agile or iterative development environments