Data Scientist - Experienced to Expert Level (Maryland)

About the role

The National Security Agency (NSA) seeks experienced Data Scientists to join mission offices and tackle complex data problems. This role requires a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, computer science, and practical experience.

Responsibilities

• Explore data analysis and model fitting to reveal data features of interest
• Use machine-learned predictive modeling
• Construct usable data sets from multiple sources to meet customer needs
• Identify and analyze anomalous data (including metadata)
• Develop conceptual design and models to address mission requirements
• Develop qualitative and quantitative methods for characterizing datasets in various states
• Perform analytic modeling, scripting, and/or programming
• Work collaboratively and iteratively throughout the data-science lifecycle
• Design and develop analytics and techniques for analysis
• Analyze data using mathematical and statistical methods
• Evaluate, document, and communicate research processes, analyses, and results to customers, peers, and leadership
• Create interpretable visualizations

Requirements

• Pass the Data Science Examination (DSE)
• At least one course from advanced mathematics (e.g., calculus, differential equations, discrete mathematics, linear algebra, calculus-based statistics)
• At least one course from advanced computer science (e.g., algorithms, programming, data structures, data mining, artificial intelligence)
• Experience in programming and one or more of the following: machine learning, data mining, statistical analysis, statistical consulting, artificial intelligence development, computational science, software engineering, technical writing, data visualization, data engineering
• Experience in formal or informal leadership

Qualifications

• Associate's degree plus 8 years of relevant experience, or Bachelor's degree plus 6 years of relevant experience, or Master's degree plus 4 years of relevant experience, or Doctoral degree plus 2 years of relevant experience for Senior entry
• Associate's degree plus 11 years of relevant experience, or Bachelor's degree plus 9 years of relevant experience, or Master's degree plus 7 years of relevant experience, or Doctoral degree plus 5 years of relevant experience for Expert entry

Skills

• Desire for continual learning
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, communication (oral and written), and interpersonal skills
• Able to solve complex problems
• Proficient with critical thinking and reasoning to make analytic determinations
• Effective at working in a collaborative team environment
• Able to bridge the gap with both technical and non-technical audiences
• Able to provide technical leadership in formal or informal roles
• Knowledge, skills, and relevant experience in programming, formal or informal leadership, and one or more of the following: designing and implementing machine learning, data mining, statistical analysis, statistical consulting, artificial intelligence development, computational science, software engineering, technical writing, data visualization, data engineering

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package including salary offers based on education and experience, training, and flexible work schedule.

Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule

• Salary range: $132,751 - $197,200 (Senior, Expert)
• Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package
• Work Schedule: Full-time, Monday - Friday, 8-hour days between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible)

How to Apply

Apply soonest as job postings can close earlier than stated end dates. Review and note the minimum qualifications, as only those applicants who meet the required qualifications will be contacted to continue the employment process. Populate the resume tool to showcase relevant work experience and education, and answer any applicable screening questions. Information collected will be used to determine eligibility, and failure to provide accurate information may result in disqualification for this position. A confirmation email will be sent after submission of the first application and after any future updates to submitted applications. Due to time-sensitive communications, ensure your spam filters are configured to accept emails from noreply@intelligencecareers.gov. For job vacancies that include stated testing requirements, also include @uwe.nsa.gov, @nsa.gov, and @pearson.com. U.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants. NSA is an equal opportunity employer and abides by applicable employment laws and regulations. Before finalizing your appointment at the conclusion of your trial period, NSA will determine whether your continued employment advances the public interest. This decision will be based on factors such as your performance and conduct; the Agency's needs and interests; whether your continued employment would advance the Agency's organizational goals; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. If you do not receive certification for continued employment, you should receive written notice prior to the end of your trial period that your employment will be terminated.

Additional Information

Please attach a copy of your resume and all transcripts (unofficial are fine) as part of your application when given the opportunity to do so to speed application processing.

Questions

For job vacancies that include stated testing requirements, also include @uwe.nsa.gov, @nsa.gov, and @pearson.com. U.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants. NSA is an equal opportunity employer and abides by applicable employment laws and regulations. Before finalizing your appointment at the conclusion of your trial period, NSA will determine whether your continued employment advances the public interest. This decision will be based on factors such as your performance and conduct; the Agency's needs and interests; whether your continued employment would advance the Agency's organizational goals; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. If you do not receive certification for continued employment, you should receive written notice prior to the end of your trial period that your employment will be terminated. Please attach in application.

Narrative Questions

1. How has your commitment to the Constitution and the founding principles of the United States inspired you to pursue this role within the Federal government? Provide a concrete example from professional, academic, or personal experience.
2. In this role, how would you use your skills and experience to improve government efficiency and effectiveness? Provide specific examples where you improved processes, reduced costs, or improved outcomes.
3. How would you help advance the President's Executive Orders and policy priorities in this role? Identify one or two relevant Executive Orders or policy initiatives that are significant to you, and explain how you would help implement them if hired.