Applied Scientist

Who We Are

2K is headquartered in Novato, California and is a wholly owned label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO). Founded in 2005, 2K Games is a global video game company, publishing titles developed by some of the most influential game development studios in the world. Our studios responsible for developing 2K’s portfolio of world-class games across multiple platforms, include Visual Concepts, Firaxis, Hangar 13, CatDaddy, Cloud Chamber, 31st Union, and HB Studios. Our portfolio of titles is expanding due to our global strategic plan, building and acquiring exciting studios whose content continues to inspire all of us! 2K publishes titles in today’s most popular gaming genres, including sports, shooters, action, role-playing, strategy, casual, and family entertainment.

Our team of engineers, marketers, artists, writers, data scientists, producers, thinkers and doers, are the professional publishing stewards of our growing library of critically-acclaimed franchises such as NBA 2K, 2K PGA, Battleborn, BioShock, Borderlands, The Quarry, The Darkness, Mafia, Sid Meier’s Civilization, Marvel’s Midnight Suns, WWE 2K, and XCOM.

At 2K, we pride ourselves on creating an inclusive work environment, which means encouraging our teams to Come as You Are and do your best work! We encourage ALL applicants to explore our global positions, even if they don’t meet every requirement for the role. If you're interested in the job and think you have what it takes to work at 2K, we encourage you to apply!

Who is hiring:

2K is looking for a passionate and skilled Applied Scientist to join the Applied AI Team in the Product Organization with a focus on our flagship franchise NBA 2K. Our team leverages AI, machine learning, statistics, operations research, and economics to enhance and optimize 2K’s games. We develop algorithmic solutions in areas such as matchmaking, in-game experience personalization, player engagement, in-game economy, content optimization, and fraud detection.

What you will do in this role:

• Research, develop, and deploy machine learning algorithms to impact in-game experiences.
• Collaborate with game development, LiveOps, tech, and data engineering teams to apply machine learning and AI solutions to problems in the fascinating world of video gaming.
• Design and implement quantitative models and optimization techniques to support game design, content release strategies, and LiveOps decisions.
• Work closely with engineers and senior scientists to integrate machine learning models into production environments.

What we are looking for:

We are seeking a scientist with strong foundations of probability, statistics, and machine learning, combined with hands-on experience in deployment and productizing machine learning models. The ideal candidate is curious, quick to learn new techniques, and able to survey and apply state-of-art research and industry practices. Being a solution oriented, creative problem solver and a self-starter with a passion for driving meaningful impact, meeting deadlines, and building whatever is necessary along the way is critical for this role.

Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Computer Science, Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering or a related quantitative field.
• 2+ years of experience in machine learning, data science, or applied scientist roles.
• Proficiency in machine learning—either traditional ML or deep learning (preferably both).
• Fluency in Python and SQL (or similar scripting languages). Experience with big data technologies such as Apache Spark.
• Working knowledge of machine learning modeling/computation frameworks such as scikit-learn, PyTorch, Tensorflow, Spark ML.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, rapidly prototype solutions, and test new ideas.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Preferred Qualifications (Helpful, but Not Required):

• Experience with discrete optimization, simulations, recommender systems, and reinforcement learning.
• Familiarity with cloud services (such as AWS), containerization, model orchestration, and model serving.
• Knowledge of the gaming industry and experience working with game-related AI solutions.
• Basic knowledge of basketball and interest in deep diving into video games as products.

As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to ensuring that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform their essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us if you need reasonable accommodation.

Please note that 2K Games and its studios never uses instant messaging apps or personal email accounts to contact prospective employees or conduct interviews and when emailing, only use 2K.com accounts.

#LI-Onsite 
#LI-Hybrid