Data Scientist (Contractor), Economics & Policy

at Airbnb
USD 291,200-312,000 per year
USD 140-150 per hour
MIDDLE
✅ Remote ✅ Hybrid

SCRAPED

Used Tools & Technologies

Not specified

Required Skills & Competences ?

Python @ 3 SQL @ 3 R @ 3 Statistics @ 3 Algorithms @ 3 Machine Learning @ 3 Data Science @ 3 scikit-learn @ 6 Pandas @ 6

Details

Airbnb was born in 2007 when two hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to over 5 million hosts who have welcomed over 2 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, hosts offer unique stays and experiences that make it possible for guests to connect with communities in a more authentic way.

The Community You Will Join

The Economics & Policy Data Science team at Airbnb conducts rigorous, data-driven research to understand the economic and social impact of Airbnb's platform. We inform public policy debates, guide product development, and help shape the future of travel. We are a multidisciplinary team composed of economists, data scientists, and policy experts.

The Difference You Will Make

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Data Scientist (Contractor - 18 month assignment) to join our Economics & Policy team. Candidates should have a strong background in economic modeling and analytics. In this role, you will work closely with senior data scientists and economists, providing critical research and modeling support for the team’s strategic projects.

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to gain hands-on experience with quasi-experimental inference methods and machine learning models in a dynamic and impactful environment. A teamwork mentality and “no task too big or too small” attitude is key. The scope of work includes quantitative analysis of high-visibility topics including regulation, tourism, and economic development/impact.

Responsibilities

  • Model and analyze regulatory impact, providing guidance to policy team members
  • Support the development and implementation of statistical models and machine learning algorithms under guidance
  • Assist in the collection and preparation of large datasets for economic analysis and research
  • Write and maintain clear, well-documented code for data processing and analysis
  • Generate visualizations to convey key concepts
  • Prepare summaries of research findings and contribute to internal presentations and reports

Requirements

  • Advanced degree in Economics, Data Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative field. PhD preferred.
  • 2+ years of experience in data modeling & analysis
  • Knowledge of data tools including: R/Python, SQL, Data Visualization, GIS, Excel
  • Strong understanding of statistical concepts and experience with data manipulation and analysis libraries (e.g., pandas, NumPy, scikit-learn in Python; dplyr, ggplot2 in R)
  • Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
  • Experience with causal inference techniques (e.g. econometric regressions & quasi-experimental techniques)
  • Exposure to the policy and economics domain, or adjacent domains

Location

This position is US - Remote Eligible. The role may include occasional work at an Airbnb office or attendance at offsites, as agreed to with your manager. While the position is Remote Eligible, you must live in a state where Airbnb, Inc. has a registered entity. (Refer to Airbnb careers for the up-to-date list of excluded states.) If your position is employed by another Airbnb entity, your recruiter will inform you what states you are eligible to work from.

Inclusion & Accessibility

Airbnb is committed to working with the broadest talent pool possible. We strive to provide a disability inclusive application and interview process. If you require reasonable accommodation to submit an application, contact [email protected] with your full name, the role you’re applying for, and the accommodation necessary.

Compensation & Benefits

  • The actual hourly rate is dependent upon many factors, such as: education, experience, and skills. The hourly rate is subject to change and may be modified in the future.
  • This role may also be eligible for bonus, equity, benefits, and Employee Travel Credits.

Pay Range

$140—$150 USD

Additional Notes

This is a contractor role (18 month assignment). Work will involve quasi-experimental inference methods, econometric regressions, statistical modeling, machine learning models, big data preparation, and visualization for policy and economic impact analysis.