Data Scientist

US Office of the Director of National Intelligence; McLean (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) seeks a data scientist to apply advanced analytics and ML to national security data. You will collaborate with cross-agency teams to translate complex findings into actionable insights and visualizations.

Candidates should demonstrate Python proficiency, experience in data visualization (Tableau), and the ability to mentor junior colleagues while solving challenging national security problems.

Qualifications

• Proficient in Python with practical ML experience.
• Experience with data visualization and storytelling using Tableau.
• Ability to work independently and in teams; mentor junior colleagues.
• Creative problem-solving and initiative for mission responsibilities.
• Extensive knowledge of national security issues and data-driven decision making.
• Knowledge of analytical methods in statistics, ML, and visualization.

Skills

Python programming

Machine learning

Analytical thinking

Communication

Mentoring

Creative problem solving

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in quantitative or technical field

Tools

Tableau

Job description

The National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) leads the nation's effort to protect the United States from terrorism by integrating, analyzing and sharing information to drive whole-of-government action and achieve our national CT objectives.

FREE RESPONSE ESSAY 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.
4. How has a strong work ethic contributed to your professional, academic or personal achievements? Provide one or two specific examples and explain how those qualities would enable you to serve effectively in this position.

Mandatory Requirements

• Demonstrated ability to code in Python, including working knowledge of artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities.
• Familiarity with data visualization tools, such as Tableau.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and in a team or collaborative environment, and mentor junior colleagues.
• Creative problem-solving skills and initiative in carrying out mission responsibilities.
• Extensive knowledge of individual, organizational, and technical or transnational issues of national security concern.
• Extensive knowledge of business operations and associated processes.
• Extensive knowledge of appropriate analytic methods and methodological tools in one or more of the following areas: Applied Mathematics (e.g. probability and statistics, formal modeling, computational social sciences); Computer Programming (e.g. programming languages, math/statistics packages, computer science, machine learning, scientific computing); and Visualization (e.g. GIS/geospatial analysis, telemetry analysis).
• Extensive knowledge of research designs. Demonstrated ability to develop comprehensive computer software applications, as needed.
• Demonstrated ability to leverage multiple data management tools to organize relevant information and make decisions.
• Demonstrated ability to apply intellectual curiosity; creativity and innovation to go beyond current tools to deliver the best solution to complex problems.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate complex, multi-disciplinary ideas and insights.
• Demonstrated ability to identify and/or develop business opportunities.
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex, technical findings into an easily understood narrative (i.e., tell story with data).
• Demonstrated analytical and critical thinking skills, including superior ability to think strategically.
• Demonstrated ability to multitask and change focus quickly as demands change.
• Demonstrated ability to evaluate data drawing pertinent inferences from data trend analysis, and interpretation of such inferences in keeping with the requirements of officials responsible for planning or for making policy decisions.

Desired Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in quantitative or technical field of study (e.g., statistics, mathematics, computer science, physical science, economics, Geographic Information Systems).
• 10 years of related data science experience is preferred.