Data Scientist
The Data Scientist at Confidential Client supports the intelligence community by developing advanced machine learning, statistical, and AI-driven solutions to address critical mission challenges. This role involves analyzing complex cyber data, building and managing machine learning models, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance capabilities such as object detection and automated decision-making. The position requires an active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph and expertise in Python, cloud platforms, and data visualization tools.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, IT Services and IT Consulting.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
As a Data Scientist supporting the intelligence and cyber mission space, you will design, build, and deploy data-driven solutions that enable informed decision-making. Your day-to-day will include:
- Develop, train, evaluate, and deploy machine learning and statistical models (object detection, inference, behavior analysis, facial recognition, time-series forecasting).
- Analyze, clean, and transform large-scale structured and unstructured datasets; curate datasets for modeling and experimentation.
- Work with open-source data sources and cyber datasets (e.g., Shodan, Censys) to extract signals and identify patterns.
- Use cloud platforms and high-performance compute (GPU clusters) for model training and scalable inference.
- Implement model lifecycle management practices: versioning, validation, monitoring, and vulnerability identification/mitigation.
- Collaborate with engineers, subject-matter experts, and analysts to integrate models into software systems and operational workflows.
- Produce clear visualizations and reports (e.g., Tableau) that communicate technical findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Research and prototype new analytical approaches and document results for reproducibility and stakeholder review.
Required Qualifications
- Active Top Secret/SCI (TS/SCI) clearance with a current Polygraph.
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Education / experience: Bachelor’s degree + 5 years related experience; OR Master’s degree + 3 years; OR Associate’s degree + 8 years; OR High School diploma/GED + 11 years.
- Strong experience with Python for data analysis and model development.
- Experience with SQL / PostgreSQL, Spark, and version control (Git).
- Practical experience with cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure).
- Experience working with cyber datasets and tooling (e.g., Shodan, Censys).
- Familiarity with machine learning, statistical modeling, and time-series forecasting techniques.
- Proven ability to clean, manage, and optimize large-scale datasets.
- Experience applying data visualization tools such as Tableau to present results.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills; able to explain technical concepts to diverse audiences.
- Demonstrated judgement in selecting appropriate AI/ML techniques for specific mission problems.
Desired Qualifications
- Advanced degree in a data-science-related field or equivalent technical discipline.
- Familiarity with developing, retraining, or using common AI/ML frameworks and libraries.
- Knowledge of software and hardware optimization techniques for large-scale data processing.
- Experience with data warehousing, ETL, and streaming tools (e.g., Apache NiFi, Pentaho, Kafka).
- Prior work extracting insights from cyber threat/telemetry datasets in operational environments.
Overview & Why Work With Our Client
Our confidential client delivers advanced scientific, engineering, and analytic solutions to federal, defense, and intelligence customers. You’ll join mission-focused teams solving complex national-security problems using cutting-edge analytics and AI — in an environment that values collaboration, learning, and impact.
This role is based in Reston, VA. Remote/hybrid status is subject to client and contract requirements. The organization maintains a drug‑free workplace and supports reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities.
Compensation & Benefits
- Employment type: Full-time.
- Projected salary range (full-time): USD $120,700.00 - USD $188,725.00 / Yr.
- Total rewards typically include medical, dental, vision, retirement plan options, paid leave, professional development, and other benefits (eligibility may depend on hours worked and employee classification).
- Compensation is based on experience, skills, internal and external equity, contract requirements, and location.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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