Data Science Intern – Summer 2027

Please note that we do not offer visa sponsorship for this position.

POSITION SUMMARY:

At National Life Group, we are unlocking the power of data and AI to transform our business and enhance customer experience. Our AI Center of Excellence (AICoE) is leading this effort through innovations in machine learning, advanced analytics, and generative AI.

As a Data Science Intern, you will contribute to projects within our AI CoE. You’ll gain hands-on experience applying computer science and data science techniques to real business challenges. Projects may range from supporting the development of predictive models to testing and enhancing generative AI solutions.

This is a unique opportunity to explore both traditional data science methods and emerging AI technologies while working in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

In this role, you will collaborate with AI and data science practitioners, technical experts, and business partners. You will work primarily in National Life’s Databricks environment to develop and evaluate data-driven solutions. Depending on project priorities, responsibilities may include:

• Prepare, explore, and validate datasets and features for life insurance and annuity use cases such as surrender propensity, premium persistency, and policyholder behavioral analysis.
• Support the development and evaluation of statistical and machine-learning models, comparing results with established baselines and investigating errors and limitations.
• Help design experiments and analyze business outcomes using appropriate comparisons, sound statistical methods, and clear measures of success.
• Develop reusable Python and SQL workflows, including validation checks and documentation that allow others to review and reproduce the work.
• Prototype and evaluate generative AI applications, assessing output quality, source support, failure modes, and practical business usefulness.
• Apply responsible AI and data-handling practices, including appropriate treatment of sensitive information and validation of AI-generated outputs.
• Communicate findings and recommendations to technical and business audiences.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, data science, mathematics, statistics, or a related field.
• Strong programming skills in Python, with experience using data analysis or machine-learning libraries such as pandas and scikit-learn. Exposure to Apache Spark, PyTorch, or TensorFlow is a plus.
• Working knowledge of SQL, including querying, joining, and aggregating data to prepare and validate datasets for analysis and modeling.
• Familiarity with foundational statistical and machine-learning concepts, including regression, classification, model evaluation, and hypothesis testing.
• Coursework or projects integrating generative AI APIs into software is a plus.
• Curiosity and eagerness to learn about the real-world application of both modern AI technologies and foundational statistical methods.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

AI Proficiency Expectations

At National Life Group, we view AI as an enabler of human potential.  We use AI to help us work smarter, serve more clients, and keep our promises, while remaining a relationship-driven business where our people are our greatest strength.

All associates are expected to:

• Leverage approved AI tools, where appropriate, to improve the efficiency, quality, and impact of their work.
• Stay curious and open to new AI-enabled ways of working.
• Exercise sound judgment by reviewing and validating AI-generated content.
• Maintain accountability for the accuracy, quality, fairness, and integrity of work products by adhering to National Life's AI guiding principles.
• Use AI responsibly and in accordance with company policies related to confidentiality, data privacy, security, compliance, retention, and intellectual property.

Core Competencies

• Service Focus - Demonstrates a client centric focus for satisfying one’s external and/or internal customers; establishes and maintains effective relationships with customers and gains their trust and respect.
• Decision Making - Makes sense of complex information, critically evaluates, and creates solutions.
• Results Oriented - Sets performance and personal goals; Driven to meet or exceed goals and objectives.
• Plans and Aligns - Plans and prioritizes work to meet commitments aligned with organizational goals; Aligns people and skills to tasks and assignments; Evaluates results of work.
• Demonstrates Learning Agility - Enhances skills and knowledge through continuous learning; Focuses on personal results by establishing stretch goals; Seeks feedback and changes accordingly.
• Establishes Relationships - Builds partnerships with others to instill trust, collaborate, and meet shared objectives.
• Communicates Effectively - Actively listens, conveys messages to meet different audience needs, and remains open to new ideas and opinions.
• Fosters Diversity - Values diversity and difference in thought, experience, and perspective; Promotes an environment that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion; Supports equal and fair treatment for all.

HOW YOU SHOW UP:

• Highly reliable, engaged and possess a customer service attitude
• Demonstrate effective communication to various areas of the organization (technical and non-technical)
• Bring creativity, thought leadership, and curiosity to the table; actively participate in forums to contribute and learn
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, i.e. a problem solver’s mindset
• Eager to learn, ask relevant questions, seek new knowledge, and make connections
• Enjoy taking on challenges and working towards solutions both collaboratively and independently 

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:

• 10-week paid internship (June 1 - August 6) with formal orientation and onboarding
• Networking opportunities with peers and leaders throughout the summer
• Cross-Departmental group project focused on an enterprise-wide solution presented at company-wide event
• Presentation skills coaching sessions
• Learning opportunities throughout program
• Access to mentors (former program participants)