Data Science, Associate - Herndon, VA

Peraton; Herndon (VA); On-site; USD 66,000 - 106,000; Full time

Job summary

Peraton seeks an Entry-level Data Science Associate in Herndon, VA to support a large, classified software program. The role focuses on data-driven product development, cloud-native analytics, and agile practices, with the Summer 2027 start date after clearance.

You will work with Python, R, Spark, SQL, and ML frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch to deliver mission-critical insights. You will join a team that applies DevOps and modern data science methods to solve complex challenges,

Qualifications

• BS degree or higher in a data-related field and 0–2 years of experience.
• US Citizenship and ability to obtain TS/SCI clearance.
• Foundational experience with Python, R, Spark, and SQL.
• Hands-on experience with TensorFlow, PyTorch, or similar frameworks.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to learn new technologies quickly and work independently.

Responsibilities

• Apply data science techniques to support mission and business objectives in an Agile environment.
• Collect, clean, transform, and analyze large datasets to identify trends and insights.
• Develop and maintain ETL and data quality pipelines for mission-critical applications.
• Use Python, R, Spark, and SQL to perform data analysis and automation.
• Develop and test ML solutions using TensorFlow, PyTorch, or similar tools.
• Collaborate with engineers and stakeholders to translate requirements into data-driven solutions.
• Communicate analytical findings clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Contribute to Agile ceremonies and deliver high-quality solutions.

Skills

Python

R

Spark

SQL

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Education

BS degree in Data Science, Data Analytics, Computational Modeling & Data Analytics, Computer Science, Computer Engineering or related field

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

Job description

Responsibilities

Peraton is seeking an Entry-level Data Science Associate in our Herndon, VA location to support a large software development classified program focused on developing, operating, and maintaining mission-critical enterprise capabilities. The program includes supporting existing mission systems while working to develop and deliver modernized, cloud-native, data-driven products and capabilities. The team applies Agile methodologies, DevOps principles, and modern data science, analytics, and machine learning practices to solve complex mission challenges.

The target start date for this position is Summer 2027, after successfully obtaining the necessary security clearance, as dictated by the government program.

Responsibilities:

• Apply data science and analytical techniques to support mission and business objectives within an Agile development environment.
• Collect, clean, transform, and analyze large and complex datasets to identify trends, patterns, and actionable insights.
• Develop and maintain data processing, ETL, and data quality pipelines to support mission-critical applications and analytics.
• Use programming languages and technologies such as Python, R, Spark, and SQL to perform data analysis, modeling, and automation.
• Develop, test, and maintain data science and machine learning solutions using frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or similar tools.
• Support the development and integration of machine learning, artificial intelligence, and advanced analytics capabilities.
• Work with distributed computing environments and large-scale datasets using technologies such as Spark, Kubernetes, and Docker.
• Troubleshoot data, database, and pipeline issues and develop solutions to improve data quality, reliability, and performance.
• Collaborate with software engineers, data scientists, analysts, and mission stakeholders to translate complex technical requirements into effective data-driven solutions.
• Communicate analytical findings, technical concepts, and recommendations clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Continuously learn and apply emerging technologies and methodologies in data science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and analytics.
• Participate in Agile ceremonies, including sprint planning, stand-ups, reviews, and retrospectives, while collaborating with team members to deliver high-quality solutions.

#PeratonEarlyCareer

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• BS degree in Data Science, Data Analytics, Computational Modeling & Data Analytics, Computer Science, Computer Engineering or related field and 0-2 years of experience.
• May 2027 grads are welcome to apply.
• US Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance.
• Foundational experience in data science technologies such as Python, R, Spark, and SQL.
• Hands on experience through coursework and/or prior internships working with data science frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, and/or similar tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to quickly adapt and learn new technologies and concepts.
• Self-motivated, independent, detail-oriented, responsible team-player.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

Desired Qualifications:

• 3.0 and above GPA.
• Exposure to Agile development processes and tools.
• Familiarity developing ETL and data quality pipelines that process vast amounts of data.
• Prior experience with distributed compute architectures such as Spark, Kubernetes, or Docker containers.
• Ability to describe complex, technical problems to business stakeholders in a non-technical way.
• Ability to self-manage day-to-day tasks independently and communicate collaboratively with leadership and other development team
• Knowledge of big data, data analysis, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and advanced analytics
• Understanding of large-language models or running open-source hugging face model

Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world’s leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can’t be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we’re keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range

$66,000 - $106,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual’s experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.

EEO

EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.