Lead Data Scientist

Lead Data Scientist

Location: Colombo, Western Province, Sri Lanka

Date Posted: 09/04/2026

Company: Virtusa

Role Overview

As a Lead Data Scientist, you will bridge the gap between advanced machine learning research and production-grade software engineering. This role is designed for a technical leader who can architect scalable AI solutions, with a heavy focus on Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs). You will play a critical role in translating complex business challenges into high-impact products while collaborating closely with our UK-based teams.

Key Responsibilities

AI & Machine Learning Engineering

• Generative AI: Lead the development and deployment of LLM applications, focusing on fine-tuning, prompt engineering, and building agentic workflows using frameworks like LangChain and LangGraph.

• Production Excellence: Translate business requirements into scalable, production-grade solutions, ensuring code is clean, maintainable, and follows Python best practices.

• Architecture: Oversee containerization and orchestration strategies to ensure seamless model deployment and monitoring.

Data Engineering & Strategy

• Data Processing: Drive expertise in data transformation using Pandas, NumPy, and SQL, with a strong preference for distributed processing via PySpark.

• Cloud Integration: Deploy and manage solutions within cloud environments, ideally utilizing Azure and Databricks.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Stakeholder Management: Maintain strong, collaborative relationships with UK-based teams, effectively working in an offshore setting to align technical output with global business goals.

• Project Management: Thrive in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple high-priority projects simultaneously while maintaining rigorous quality standards.

Candidate Profile

Knowledge & Experience:

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative field.

• Professional Background: 3+ years of experience in software engineering, data science, or AI engineering.

• GenAI Expertise: Proven track record of deploying GenAI/LLM applications in production, including experience with CI/CD pipelines and containerization.

• Cloud Proficiency: Hands-on experience with Azure and Databricks is highly preferred.

• Bonus: Experience with large-scale datasets and distributed computing frameworks like Spark.

Technical Skills:

• Programming: Advanced Python skills and familiarity with web frameworks (e.g., FastAPI, Flask, or Django).

• Tooling: Proficiency in modern AI orchestration tools and containerization (Docker/Kubernetes).

• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills for effective cross-regional collaboration.

How to Apply

If you are a forward-thinking data professional ready to lead the next generation of AI solutions, please submit your CV and portfolio through our careers portal.

We are an equal opportunity employer.

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