What are the responsibilities and job description for the Data Science Intern position at State of Wisconsin Investment Board?
OUR AGENCY
Make a Difference
SWIB is a trusted and skilled global investment organization managing the assets of the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) and other separately managed funds. With about $156 billion in total assets under management, SWIB has been recognized by the investment industry for its teamwork and innovation that helps make it a premier asset manager. Sophisticated investment management strategies, forward-looking technologies, and strong internal asset management make SWIB a leading investment organization.
For public employees in Wisconsin, SWIB is a unique and valuable partner. Investing for the financial security of more than 691,000 individuals – and for the 1,607 Wisconsin employers who contribute on behalf of their employees – SWIB’s strong management of the WRS has helped fuel one of only a few fully funded public pension funds in the country. SWIB’s long-term investment returns meet the challenges of a constantly
evolving investment landscape while helping grow and protect the assets of the WRS, which is consistently among the top 10 largest public pension funds in the U.S.
We are a mission driven organization and the participants we serve are our mission. By bringing a disciplined, prudent, and innovative approach to market opportunities, SWIB has been successful in generating reasonable returns and maintaining the trust of the beneficiaries and stakeholders of the funds we oversee.
Real World Experience
This is your opportunity to gain professional experience working for one of the nation’s top public pension fund investment organizations. We are looking for a dynamic, energetic intern who is eager to be a part of our dedicated team. SWIB’s intern program offers an opportunity for you to put your skills to use while at the same time to learn new skills in a professional environment. Our internship program is designed to provide meaningful work through hands-on, authentic, professional experiences.
About the Team
Data Services & Engineering Teams at SWIB supports, implements & develops industry-leading systems and platforms to support SWIB’s diverse and complex set of investment portfolios and strategies. The team at SWIB strives to be a trusted advisor and partner to the business that is valued as a critical contributor to SWIB’s continued growth and success. We effectively leverage technology to derive the maximum value from it and achieve SWIB’s business goals. We keep technology aligned with SWIB’s future direction and operate SWIB’s technology according to industry standards.
Position Overview
At this time, SWIB is seeking an intern to work on the Data Science team. The intern will help advance data in one of several ways, for example:
- Enhance/replace existing processes with newer technologies and best practices
- Create/enhance/explain existing or new risk, return and cost analytics
- Create more robust data models and replace previous data models, develop data quality metrics and instrumentation to reduce operational risk
- Develop documentation, further develop process, gather business requirements
The intern will work up to 40 hours per week over the summer, with the possibility of further work for 10-15 hours per week during the school year, if the selected candidate is local.
Essential activities:
- Data Model Analysis: Collaborate on analyzing the existing data model and provide iterative recommendations for enhancements to improve data integrity and accessibility.
- Business Logic Assessment: Review and refine inventory business logic, calculations, and reporting processes to ensure accuracy and relevance.
- SQL Development Refactoring: Refactor existing SQL queries and scripts using technologies such as Snowflake and SQL Server, while updating all related documentation to reflect changes.
- Analytics Exploration: Identify and develop new analytical methods and techniques to deliver actionable insights that support business objectives.
- Data Quality Implementation: Establish and monitor data quality rules and metrics within the system to ensure reliable and consistent data.
- Insight Development: Create interactive dashboards, visualizations, and insights using Streamlit and PowerBI to effectively communicate findings and support decision-making.
- Programming and Automation: Utilize Python for data analysis, automation of processes, and development of machine learning models as needed.
The Ideal candidate:
- Work Location: Ability to work in Madison, WI for an approximate 10-week period beginning late May/early June 2025.
- Basic Data Model Understanding: Familiarity with data modeling concepts and a willingness to learn how to enhance data integrity and accessibility.
- SQL Fundamentals: Basic knowledge of SQL with a desire to develop skills in writing and optimizing queries, especially in Snowflake and SQL Server.
- Programming Exposure: Some experience with Python or R for data analysis, with an eagerness to learn about automation and machine learning basics.
- Curiosity about Data: An ability to ask questions about data results and a desire to understand when something looks unusual.
- Interest in Investment Management: A foundational understanding of investment management principles or quantitative finance concepts, with a keen interest in expanding knowledge in this area.
- Enthusiasm and Initiative: A proactive attitude towards learning new analytical techniques and methodologies.
Join HIGHER PERFORMERS
Home to Top Talent
SWIB’s professionals shape sophisticated investment management strategies, by driving progressive technologies, and by delivering strong internal asset management results. SWIB’s internal team invests approximately 50% percent of its assets under management in house. As a result, Institutional Investor recognizes SWIB as “home to top talent in American public investing.”
“The organization has earned a reputation for investment excellence in part by running much of its portfolio successfully in-house versus outsourcing to Wall Street” – Institutional Investor.