Data Science Intern, Algorithms (Summer 2027 - SF/NYC)

About the Role

Lyft is hiring Data Science interns for Summer 2027 in New York City. The Data Science Team builds mathematical models supporting the platform’s core services, addressing optimization, prediction, modeling, inference, transportation, and mapping. Interns report to a Science Manager.

Specialties

• Optimization: Construct and fit statistical or optimization models that facilitate automated decision-making in the app.
• Machine Learning: Design, build, tune, and deploy models, emphasizing feature engineering and deployment.
• Inference: Design and analyze marketplace tests, estimate statistical and machine learning models, and develop and evaluate algorithmic policies for pricing, dispatch, and incentives.

Responsibilities

• Partner with engineers, product managers, and cross-functional partners to frame problems mathematically and in their business context.
• Perform exploratory data analysis to better understand problems.
• Write production modeling code and collaborate with software engineers to implement algorithms in production.
• Design and run simulated and live-traffic experiments.
• Analyze experimental and observational data, communicate findings through partner collaboration and presentations, and facilitate launch decisions.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a master’s or PhD in mathematical sciences, economics, data engineering, or a related field, with graduation between December 2027 and June 2028; required. Listed fields include Operations Research, Computer Science, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Theoretical Physics, Behavioral Science, Electrical Engineering, Microeconomic Theory, and Econometrics.
• Available for a Summer 2027 internship in New York City.
• Coding experience in Python (required); SQL and R are also listed.
• Experience with standard data science and machine learning libraries, including NumPy, Scikit-learn, PyTorch, TensorFlow, Keras, spaCy, and NLTK.
• Experience with experimental design and analysis and exploratory data analysis.
• Expertise in at least one specialty: optimization and mathematical modeling, machine learning fundamentals, or probabilistic and statistical modeling.
• Bonus points for experience in marketplace design, ridesharing, two-sided marketplaces, or transportation.

Work Arrangement

Hybrid, with required office attendance at least three days per week: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

Compensation and Benefits

• Expected New York City base pay: $58–$62 USD per hour, excluding potential equity, bonus, and benefits. Pay depends on qualifications, experience, and geographic location.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance options and mental health benefits.
• Holidays, two days of paid time off, and three days of sick time for interns.
• 401(k) plan and pre-tax commuter benefits.
• Lyft Pink opportunity to test new Ridership Program benefits.