Data Science Intern, Algorithms (Summer 2026)

At Lyft, our purpose is to serve and connect. We aim to achieve this by cultivating a work environment where all team members belong and have the opportunity to thrive.

Lyft’s Data Science Team builds mathematical models underpinning the platform’s core services. Compared to other technology companies of a similar size, the set of problems that we tackle is incredibly diverse. They cut across optimization, prediction, modeling, inference, transportation, and mapping. We're looking for Masters or PhD students who are passionate about solving mathematical problems with data and are excited about working in a fast-paced, innovative and collegial environment.

We are hiring for a variety of Data Science interns, focusing on the following specialties:

Optimization

Construct and fit statistical or optimization models that facilitate automated decision making in the app.

Machine Learning

Design, build, tune, and deploy machine learning models with a special emphasis on feature engineering and deployment.

Inference

Design and analyze tests in our dynamic marketplace, estimating statistical and ML models to enable better decisions, and developing and evaluating algorithmic policies in our pricing, dispatch, and incentives systems.

You will report into a Science Manager.

Responsibilities

Partner with Engineers, Product Managers, and other cross-functional partners to frame problems, both mathematically and within the business context

Perform exploratory data analysis to gain a deeper understanding of the problem

Write production modeling code; collaborate with software engineers to implement algorithms in production

Design and run both simulated and live traffic experiments

Analyze experimental and observational data; communicate findings including working with partner teams and presentations; facilitate launch decisions

Experience

Currently pursuing a Masters or PhD degree

in mathematical sciences (

Operations Research, Computer Science, Statistics

, Applied Mathematics, Theoretical Physics, Behavioral Science, Electrical Engineering, etc.), Economics (Microeconomics Theory, Econometrics etc.), Data Engineering; or a related field; with

a graduation date between December 2026 and June 2027 (required)

Available during

Summer 2026

for an internship in San Francisco

Experience Coding In

Python (required)

or SQL, R; standard data science libraries (NumPy, Scikit-learn, PyTorch, TensorFlow, Keras); and ML Tools & Libraries (NumPy, SpaCy, NLTK, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, Keras)

Experimental design and analysis

Exploratory data analysis

Expertise in one of these specialties: optimization and mathematical modeling, machine learning fundamentals, or probabilistic and statistical modeling

Bonus Points: Experience In Marketplace Design, Ridesharing, Studying Two-sided Marketplaces, And/or Transportation

Benefits

Great medical, dental, and vision insurance options

Mental health benefits

In addition to holidays, interns receive 2 days paid time off and 3 days sick time off

401(k) plan to help save for your future

Pre-tax commuter benefits

Lyft Pink - Lyft team members get an exclusive opportunity to test new benefits of our Ridership Program

Lyft is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive workplace that fosters belonging. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, age, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by law. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with applicable federal, state and local law.

Lyft highly values having employees working in-office to foster a collaborative work environment and company culture. This role will be in-office on a hybrid schedule — Team Members will be expected to work in the office 3 days per week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Lyft considers working in the office at least 3 days per week to be an essential function of this hybrid role. Your recruiter can share more information about the various in-office perks Lyft offers. #Hybrid

The expected base pay range for this position in the San Francisco area is $58-$62/hour USD. Salary ranges are dependent on a variety of factors, including qualifications, experience and geographic location. Range is not inclusive of potential equity offering, bonus or benefits. Your recruiter can share more information about the salary range specific to your working location and other factors during the hiring process.