Data Science Lead Jobs in Maryland

INTRODUCTION

Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.

SUMMARY

Lead the digital and analytics evolution of our live operations. As the Digital Transformation and Data Science Lead of Live Operations, you will design and deliver advanced analytics, AI, and digital solutions that strengthen forecasting, performance, and decision-making across hatcheries, breeder farms, broiler grow-out, and feed mills. You will partner with operations, IT, and external technology providers to architect scalable platforms, drive adoption of tools like Dataiku and Power BI, and elevate data-driven capabilities across the organization. This role is ideal for a strategic, innovative leader who thrives at turning complex challenges into practical, high-impact digital solutions.

The salary range for this position is $128,000 - $192,000 per year, based on experience and qualifications with annual bonus available (variable depending on performance).

In addition to the base salary, Perdue offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/Rx, 401(k) with employer match after 1 year, critical illness, accident insurance, dental, vision, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability protection, flexible spending accounts and paid time off.

PRINCIPAL ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the strategy, design, development, and deployment of advanced analytics, AI, and data science solutions supporting live operations.
• Architect and optimize end-to-end data workflows and models using Dataiku or comparable platforms.
• Develop scalable dashboards, reporting frameworks, and visualization strategies in Power BI to support operational and executive decision-making.
• Develop and support AI and machine learning models for forecasting and operational decision-making.
• Identify opportunities to enhance performance through data insights, automation, and predictive analytics.
• Establish best practices, standards, and methodologies for analytics development and data governance.
• Lead and influence digital transformation initiatives across live operations, identifying and prioritizing high-impact opportunities.
• Translate business needs into scalable digital solutions and drive alignment on approach, design, and implementation.
• Drive process improvement through automation, standardization, and advanced data utilization.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend adoption strategies aligned to business objectives.
• Collaborate with operations leaders to identify and prioritize digital opportunities.
• Lead engagement with external vendors and solution providers, influencing design, scope, and delivery of analytics solutions.
• Define project requirements, priorities, and success criteria, ensuring delivery against business objectives.
• Partner with IT to drive data architecture, integration, and platform scalability to support advanced analytics.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Engineering, Operations Research, or a related field.
• 5-8 years of experience.
• Strong experience with Dataiku and/or similar data science platforms.
• Advanced proficiency in Power BI or comparable data visualization tools.
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems using advanced analytical techniques and independent judgment.
• Experience leading large projects or processes with limited oversight.
• Proven ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders and translate business needs into technical solutions.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to convey complex concepts to non-technical audiences.

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Experience with SQL and/or Python.
• Knowledge of machine learning techniques and applications.
• Experience in agriculture, manufacturing, or supply chain environments.
• Familiarity with live operations (hatchery, breeder, broiler, or feed mill).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

• Ability to work in office environments, operational facilities, and live operations settings as needed.
• Ability to travel to hatcheries, breeder farms, broiler grow-out operations, and feed mills.
• Ability to work around operational equipment and within agricultural or production environments.

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.