Machine Learning Scientist Intern (PhD)

The Company

PayPal has been revolutionizing commerce globally for more than 25 years. Creating innovative experiences that make moving money, selling, and shopping simple, personalized, and secure, PayPal empowers consumers and businesses in approximately 200 markets to join and thrive in the global economy. 

We operate a global, two-sided network at scale that connects hundreds of millions of merchants and consumers. We help merchants and consumers connect, transact, and complete payments, whether they are online or in person. PayPal is more than a connection to third-party payment networks. We provide proprietary payment solutions accepted by merchants that enable the completion of payments on our platform on behalf of our customers.

We offer our customers the flexibility to use their accounts to purchase and receive payments for goods and services, as well as the ability to transfer and withdraw funds. We enable consumers to exchange funds more safely with merchants using a variety of funding sources, which may include a bank account, a PayPal or Venmo account balance, PayPal and Venmo branded credit products, a credit card, a debit card, certain cryptocurrencies, or other stored value products such as gift cards, and eligible credit card rewards.  Our PayPal, Venmo, and Xoom products also make it safer and simpler for friends and family to transfer funds to each other. We offer merchants an end-to-end payments solution that provides authorization and settlement capabilities, as well as instant access to funds and payouts. We also help merchants connect with their customers, process exchanges and returns, and manage risk. We enable consumers to engage in cross-border shopping and merchants to extend their global reach while reducing the complexity and friction involved in enabling cross-border trade. 

Our beliefs are the foundation for how we conduct business every day.  We live each day guided by our core values of Inclusion, Innovation, Collaboration, and Wellness. Together, our values ensure that we work together as one global team with our customers at the center of everything we do – and they push us to ensure we take care of ourselves, each other, and our communities.

Job Description Summary:

At PayPal, we’re committed to democratizing financial services and empowering individuals and businesses around the world. Our mission is to create a more inclusive and accessible financial ecosystem. As a leader in digital payments, we leverage cutting-edge technology and data-driven insights to enhance user experiences and drive innovation. As a machine learning scientist intern in PayPal’s Global Analytics & Data Science (GADS) organization, you will have an impact on PayPal’s products all around the world. This role offers an exciting opportunity to apply advanced machine learning techniques and contribute to real-world projects that impact millions of users. The ideal candidate will possess strong practical skills in machine learning and artificial intelligence, along with the ability to translate theoretical knowledge into actionable insights.

Job Description:

Job description:

In your role as a machine learning scientist, you will:

• Design, develop, implement, deploy, and monitor predictive models using machine learning techniques, including neural networks and tree-based models.
• Evaluate and optimize existing machine learning models for performance and scalability.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in machine learning and AI technologies.
• Work with large volumes of data, including extracting insights and manipulating big data covering a wide range of information.
• Collaborate with other ML scientists and engineers to formulate innovative solutions, experiment, and implement advanced ML techniques to solve business problems.
• Clearly and effectively communicate complex concepts, analysis insights, and modeling results through creative visualization to stakeholders of varying technical levels.

Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a PhD program in Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of machine learning algorithms and principles.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, or Java, and experience with machine learning libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).
• Experience with data manipulation and analysis using tools like Pandas, NumPy, or SQL.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud) is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Strong communication skills and a passion for translating complex technical concepts into practical applications.

Internship Program Information and Requirements: 

• This is a Summer 2025 Internship program. Spring and Fall 2025 internships are not available. 
• Must currently be pursuing PhD degree in Computer Science or related field from an accredited college or university. 
• Must be returning to school in the Fall of 2025. 
• Must reside in the U.S. during the Summer internship program. 
• Must be able to obtain authorization to work in the U.S. for the summer. 

Additional Job Description:

PayPal is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices.

Actual compensation is based on various factors including but not limited to work location, and relevant skills and experience.

The total compensation for this position may include an annual performance bonus (or other incentive compensation, as applicable), equity, and medical, dental, vision, and other benefits.  For more information, visit https://www.paypalbenefits.com.

The U.S. national hourly pay range for this role is $21 to $55.  

Subsidiary:

PayPal

Travel Percent:

0

For the majority of employees, PayPal's balanced hybrid work model offers 3 days in the office for effective in-person collaboration and 2 days at your choice of either the PayPal office or your home workspace, ensuring that you equally have the benefits and conveniences of both locations.

Our Benefits:

At PayPal, we’re committed to building an equitable and inclusive global economy. And we can’t do this without our most important asset—you. That’s why we offer benefits to help you thrive in every stage of life. We champion your financial, physical, and mental health by offering valuable benefits and resources to help you care for the whole you.

We have great benefits including a flexible work environment, employee shares options, health and life insurance and more. To learn more about our benefits please visit https://www.paypalbenefits.com.

Who We Are:

Click Here to learn more about our culture and community.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion 

PayPal provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.  In addition, PayPal will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.  If you are unable to submit an application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at talentaccommodations@paypal.com.  

Belonging at PayPal: 

Our employees are central to advancing our mission, and we strive to create an environment where everyone can do their best work with a sense of purpose and belonging. Belonging at PayPal means creating a workplace with a sense of acceptance and security where all employees feel included and valued. We are proud to have a diverse workforce reflective of the merchants, consumers, and communities that we serve, and we continue to take tangible actions to cultivate inclusivity and belonging at PayPal.

Any general requests for consideration of your skills, please Join our Talent Community.

We know the confidence gap and imposter syndrome can get in the way of meeting spectacular candidates. Please don’t hesitate to apply.