Data Scientist Internship - Summer 2026

About our group:

The Advanced ML Engineering – Industrial AI Development Group develops transparent, reliable machine learning capabilities that strengthen complex, high-volume semiconductor manufacturing. We emphasize interpretable models, actionable insights, and effective human-in-the-loop decision support. Our team focuses not only on model performance, but also on quantifying business impact and operational value.

About the role - you will:

• Build and refine interpretation tools for LightGBM models, including per-sample explanations and feature contribution summaries.
• Analyze model outputs to identify key drivers, inconsistencies, and signals that can guide process investigation.
• Apply causal reasoning—such as distinguishing correlated vs. influential features—to improve diagnosis and deepen understanding of model decisions.
• Create visualizations and dashboards that make model behavior understandable to engineers and operators.
• Document your methods and communicate insights to cross-functional teams to support deployment and continuous improvement.

About you:

• Ability to translate complex technical insights into clear, domain-relevant narratives for manufacturing engineers.
• Demonstrated curiosity, strong analytical thinking, and ability to drive investigations independently.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills across technical and operational teams.

Your experience includes:

• Strong experience with Python, LightGBM, and common ML libraries (scikit-learn, pandas, numpy).
• Solid understanding of model interpretability, including SHAP, feature attribution, model diagnostics, and visualization techniques.
• Familiarity with causal inference concepts and their use in understanding model behavior and real-world processes.
• Demonstrated interest in interpretable ML, LightGBM modeling, causal analysis, and decision-support systems for complex real-world processes.
• Currently pursuing a Master’s or PhD in Computer Science, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field, and returning for classes in Fall 2026.

You may also have:

• Experience building explainable AI workflows for real-world decision-support or quality engineering environments.
• Exposure to causal discovery (PC, GES, LiNGAM), counterfactual reasoning, or causal feature importance.
• Familiarity with high-volume manufacturing, statistical process control, yield improvement, or root-cause analysis.
• Hands-on experience with anomaly detection, reliability prediction, or multivariate sensor analytics.

Location:

Normandale, MN or Remote United States

Our Normandale campus spans two suburbs, Edina and Bloomington, and serves as the Recording Head development and manufacturing arm of Seagate. Located in the heart of a bustling community, Seagate offers an on-site café, or if you prefer, you can drive to one of many restaurants just minutes away. Need to grab a gift over lunchtime? Shopping is abundant in the area. If working out is your thing, the on-site fully equipped fitness center hosts wellness programs, outdoor activities, tournaments, and group workouts. Looking for something more laid back? Reset in one of our meditation rooms, or simply take a walk around our indoor walking path. On-site cultural festivals, celebrations, and community volunteer opportunities also abound. 

Seagate is able to offer virtual employment for this position in the following states: AL, AZ, CO, CT, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NV, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI, WY. 

The estimated base wage range for this position is $35 - $43/hr. The individual base wage is based on work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Seagate offers comprehensive benefits to its eligible Interns, including, but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, and participation in the employee stock purchase plan.  Seagate also offers Interns 12 paid holidays and a minimum of 48 hours of paid sick leave. The benefits for this position are based on a 24 to 40-hour-per-week schedule for a full calendar year and may differ depending on work location and tenure with the Company.

Location: Normandale, United States, Remote United States
Travel: None