Data Scientist

Primary Purpose

The Cleveland Guardians Baseball Research & Development (R&D) group is seeking to hire data scientists, either senior or entry-level. In this role, you will work alongside the rest of the R&D group to transform a treasure trove of scientific data (e.g., box scores, bat/ball/player tracking, video) into an information pipeline that helps us acquire better players, improve those players, and equip our coaches and players to emerge victorious.

The Cleveland Guardians strongly prefer our teammates to reside in or relocate to Cleveland, Ohio. Exceptional candidates may be considered for remote work. We can also be flexible on start dates.

Core Job Functions

Data Scientists in our R&D group apply quantitative methods to make us better on the field. Depending on your skills and interests, your work may include:

• Building statistical and/or machine learning models to guide player acquisitions, player development philosophy, and Major League decision-making.
• Creating tools, prototypes, and visualizations that connect R&D insights to coaches, players, and baseball operations staff.
• Communicating complex ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical audience, including executives, coaches, and players.

Basic Requirements

• Degree or demonstrated experience in a quantitative field (e.g., Statistics, Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering).
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R for data analysis and modeling.
• Ability to clearly communicate complex ideas to others in both written and verbal form.
• Commitment to continuous learning and solving challenging problems.
• Ability to succeed in a collaborative team-oriented environment.

Preferred Experience (not required)

We are looking for a variety of skillsets. If you have experience with one or more of the following areas, you may be who we are looking for:

Statistical Modeling

• Advanced statistical methods (e.g., fixed effects, random effects, generalized additive models).
• Bayesian statistics and probabilistic programming languages (e.g., Stan).
• Database languages such as SQL.

Machine Learning and AI

• Large language models (LLMs).
• Deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, Torch).
• High-dimensional and/or spatiotemporal data.

Domain-Specific Expertise

• Research in a sports context (baseball is a plus).
• Game theory applied in real-world contexts.

Organizational Requirements

• Demonstrates the ability to read, speak, comprehend, and communicate effectively in order to perform job duties and interact with coworkers.
• Represents the Cleveland Guardians in a positive fashion to all business partners, teammates, and the general public.
• Ability to build robust, professional relationships with teammates by demonstrating interpersonal skills, approachability, and a collaborative spirit contributing to a positive, respectful work environment.
• Ability to perform the essential physical requirements of the role as outlined in the job description, which may include extended periods of sitting, standing, lifting, or navigating a multilevel ballpark.
• Adapts quickly and effectively to a fast-paced, dynamic, and diverse work environment.
• Ability to act according to the organizational values and service excellence at all times.
• Willingness to work extended days and hours, including holidays and weekends.
• Willingness to adhere to all Major League Baseball and Club policies.