Data Scientist, Innovation – Baseball Analytics
DEPARTMENT: R&D Baseball Operations
ORGANIZATION: Chicago Cubs
REPORTS TO: Assistant Director, Baseball Analytics
LOCATION: Chicago, IL
FLSA STATUS: Exempt
COMPENSATION: $80,000 – $150,000 USD
BEING PART OF THE TEAM
Our business is a team sport that began on a field with baseballs and bats and has evolved into one of the most recognizable brands in sports and entertainment through Cubs baseball and live events. Our success is driven by our people, who work to create and inspire change in an engaging, collaborative and inclusive environment. As a team, we continue to build a culture on and off the field that delivers unforgettable experiences for one another, our fans and community. In support of that effort, we expect associates to work primarily in our office. Are you ready to be part of it?
OUR STORY
The Chicago Cubs franchise, a charter member of Major League Baseball’s National League since 1876, has won the National League pennant 17 times and was the first team to win back-to-back World Series titles in the 1907 and 1908 seasons. In 2016, the Chicago Cubs made history again when the team won its first World Series in 108 years, ending the longest championship drought in North American sports. Known for its ivy-covered outfield walls, hand-operated scoreboard and famous Marquee, iconic Wrigley Field has been the home of the Chicago Cubs since 1916 and is the second oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball. In 2009, the Ricketts family assumed ownership of the Chicago Cubs and established three main goals for the organization: Win the World Series, Preserve and Improve Wrigley Field, and Be a Good Neighbor.
HOW YOU’LL CONTRIBUTE
The Chicago Cubs are seeking a Data Scientist, Innovation within Baseball Analytics focused on advancing analytics, modeling, and applied research across Baseball Operations. This role will focus on developing cutting-edge machine learning models, exploring novel analytical approaches, and translating complex baseball data into actionable insights.
This position emphasizes innovation in modeling, experimentation, and analytical rigor. The ideal candidate thrives in research-driven environments, pushing the boundaries of predictive modeling, simulation, and multimodal data analysis to improve player evaluation, player development, and performance analysis.
THE DAY-TO-DAY:
Machine Learning & Advanced Modeling
- Develop and evaluate machine learning and statistical models for player evaluation and performance analysis
- Design and implement time-series, probabilistic, and simulation-based models
- Apply modern deep learning techniques (e.g., attention models, multimodal learning)
- Explore and apply generative modeling approaches beyond LLMs
Analytics Innovation
- Conduct research into new modeling techniques and analytical frameworks
- Prototype and experiment with novel approaches to improve predictive performance
- Translate complex datasets (tracking, video, sensor data) into structured insights
Research & Thought Leadership
- Stay current with advancements in AI, machine learning, and sports analytics
- Serve as a subject matter expert on modeling approaches and statistical methods
- Partner with stakeholders to identify high-impact analytical opportunities
WHAT YOU’LL BRING:
- Strong experience with machine learning frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, etc.)
- Deep understanding of statistical modeling and data science workflows
- Experience working with complex and high-dimensional datasets
- Proficiency in Python, SQL, and version control
WHAT SETS YOU APART:
- 5+ years in machine learning, data science, or applied research
- Experience with multimodal data (video, tracking, sensor data)
- Background in sports analytics, preferably baseball
- Experience with simulation or probabilistic modeling frameworks
TOTAL REWARDS:
- On-site parking
- Transit benefits
- Paid time off: Personal, Sick, Vacation Time, Office Holidays & Winter Break
- Flexible work arrangement
- Casual work attire environment
- Complimentary Meal & beverage plan
- Cubs home game & spring training game ticket allotment
- Access to campus wide Wrigley Field events & pre-sales
- 401K Plan Employee Contribution & Employer Match
- Benefit Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance
- Health & Wellness engagement & programming
- Variety of associate special events, volunteer opportunities and partnership discounts
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Free access to EV charging stations
* This job posting includes the anticipated compensation, which reflects the hourly rate or salary range the Chicago Cubs and its affiliates are considering for this role in the specified location(s) as of the posting date. Where anticipated compensation is a salary range, the actual base salary offered within that range will be reflective of the candidate’s skills and experience.
The Chicago Cubs and its affiliates embrace diversity and are committed to building a team that represents all communities. We hold ourselves accountable to include new and different voices in our organization. Everyone is welcome here, and we celebrate what makes each of us unique.
Response Expectations:
Due to the overwhelming number of applications we receive, we unfortunately may not be able to respond in person to each applicant. However, we can assure you that you will receive an email confirmation when you apply as well as additional email notifications whether you are selected to move forward for the position or not. Please note, we keep all resumes on file and will contact you should we wish to schedule an interview with you.
The Chicago Cubs and its affiliates are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to inclusion and employing a diverse workforce. All applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, disability, or other legally protected characteristics.
To Apply
To apply, please follow this link.
The content in this posting was created and provided solely by the Chicago Cubs.
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