Data Scientist, Model Validation

Desjardins

Data Scientist validating data-driven quantitative models and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards at Desjardins Group. Collaborating on business decisions and developing data solutions.

Posted 5/26/2026full-timeMontréal • 🇨🇦 CanadaMid-LevelSeniorWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

PythonSQL

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Ensure that modelling processes make appropriate use of available data based on characterization, quality and processing as part of strategic initiatives
Ensure that predictive modelling is carried out according to the required standards and that Desjardins Group’s quality criteria are met through the validation process
Analyze the business needs behind the model and confirm the model’s suitability through validation
Ensure that the programming required to prepare and mine data, and to develop, evaluate, support, roll out and manage highly conceptually complex and innovative models meets the required standards
Use advanced and innovative statistical, machine learning and artificial intelligence methods to test the methodologies proposed by the first line of defence
Help draft guidelines and methods and shape methodological and technological choices
Advise and train teams on quantitative model validation methods and update them to improve delivery speed
Identify opportunities to optimize rules and systems, anticipate underlying impacts of changes and help develop data management and modelling support tools
Represent teams with various internal interested parties
Monitor the industry to understand and anticipate trends in your field of expertise in model validation, with a view to developing and updating practices that are contextually appropriate for the organization
Ensure alignment with relevant regulatory expectations for property and casualty (P&C) insurance

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in a related field (actuarial science, statistics, applied mathematics, engineering, data science, computer science)
A minimum of six years of relevant experience, including a minimum of three years in analytics or modelling; experience in P&C insurance (pricing, reserving, claims, capital/catastrophes, analytical marketing)
Knowledge of French is required
Intermediate knowledge of English due to the nature of the duties or work tools or because the position involves interactions with English-speaking partners, members and/or clients
Knowledge of mathematical modelling and statistics
Proficiency in programming languages: Python, R, SQL, SAS
Proficiency with risk management models in at least one of the following areas: Pricing and underwriting in P&C insurance, Reserving and valuation of liabilities, Loss management and fraud prevention, Client behaviour and distribution, Catastrophe risk and capital
Knowledge of property and casualty insurance
Knowledge of regulatory frameworks applicable in Canada (such as model risk management expectations, IFRS 17, MCT, AMF/OSFI guidelines)

Benefits

Comp & perks

Competitive salary and annual bonus
4 weeks of flexible vacation starting in the first year
Defined benefit pension plan that provides predictable, stable income throughout retirement
Group insurance including telemedicine
Reimbursement of health and wellness expenses and telework equipment

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

PythonRSQLSASstatistical methodsmachine learningartificial intelligencemathematical modellingdata analysisquantitative model validation

Soft Skills

communicationtrainingadvisinganalytical thinkingproblem-solvingcollaborationorganizational skillsstrategic thinkingadaptabilityleadership