Junior Applied Scientist

About the role

Zalando Payments is seeking a Junior Applied Scientist to develop and improve risk and fraud detection models, including their underlying embedding models. You will work across the full machine‑learning lifecycle, from data exploration to model deployment and monitoring, with a strong focus on turning research findings into production‑ready solutions.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct deep data analyses to uncover patterns in fraud and insolvency.
• Design, train, and deploy ML models, especially transformer‑based architectures.
• Monitor model performance in real‑time systems and iterate on improvements.
• Collaborate with operations, internal tool developers, and the wider applied‑science community.

Required profile

• Passionate about data and eager to understand shifting fraud patterns.
• Customer‑centric mindset with a drive to continuously improve processes.
• Interest in both experimental research and production deployment.

Required skills

• Experience with machine‑learning methods, particularly transformers and embedding models.
• Ability to translate research results into scalable, real‑time applications.

What we offer

• 27 days of holiday per year (increasing up to 30 days).
• 40% discount on Zalando fashion and beauty products, plus additional partner discounts.
• Family support services, pension scheme, employee share programme, and health‑wellbeing options.
• Development opportunities through training platforms and peer‑to‑peer reviews.
• 2 paid volunteering days and relocation assistance (subject to agreement).