The Houston Astros Baseball Club is accepting applications for a Bayesian Statistician to join our growing Research & Development team within Baseball Operations. We are seeking an applicant with a strong knowledge of Bayesian statistics to plan, design, and build new models, visualizations, and tools to support (and collaborate with) all facets of Baseball Operations: scouting; player development; player acquisition; video; and more. This position will work closely with a cross-functional agile team to use Bayesian methods and tools that support effective understanding of baseball data and decision making to help the Astros stay ahead of the competition.

Role Responsibilities

• Develop Bayesian models to support Baseball Operations’ research in all areas of decision making including player evaluation, roster construction, in-game tactics, and more


• Implement Bayesian methods to improve the organization’s understanding of baseball data


• Design Bayesian frameworks for new research methodologies and experimentation


• Communicate closely with front office, coaching staff, and scouting personnel in the gathering and application of baseball information

Role Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in quantitative science such as statistics, mathematics, machine learning, quantitative social sciences, computer science, operations research, engineering, physics, or similar field with a primary focus on Bayesian methods; advanced degree or equivalent experience is preferred


• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with demonstrated experience using Bayesian methods


• Proficiency with statistical programming language; R or Python preferred


• Proficiency with Bayesian or probabilistic programming language; Stan preferred


• Proficiency with relational databases such as SQL Server, Postgres, Oracle


• Self-motivated with strong analytical and problem-solving skills


• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)

Additional Preferred Skills

• Strong understanding of spatial statistics


• Ability to communicate technical ideas to non-technical audiences using data visualizations


• Demonstrated work ethic, passion for baseball, and strong baseball knowledge, including familiarity with current baseball research and analysis


• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)


• Experience with agile software development

Work Environment

This job operates in an office setting. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, and filing cabinets.  The noise level is usually moderate but can be loud within the stadium environment.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This is a largely sedentary role; however, some filing is required. This would require the ability to lift files, open filing cabinets and bend or stand on a stool as necessary.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

Ability to work a flexible schedule, including occasional evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Travel

Rare travel may be expected in this role.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

EOE/M/F/Vet/Disability