Data Scientist

Core One; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Core One is seeking a seasoned data scientist to design, develop, and deploy ML models for UAS threat detection in support of SOCOM programs at MacDill AFB, Tampa, FL. The role requires a TS/SCI clearance and a strong track record across the ML lifecycle.

Responsibilities include data preprocessing, model training, validation, deployment, and collaboration with data engineers and government stakeholders to scale data pipelines and compute infrastructures for mission-critical analytics.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline; Master's/PhD preferred.
• 5+ years in data science, ML, or AI with defense/national security focus.
• Experience with ML lifecycle: preprocessing, training, validation, deployment.
• Hands-on data engineering: SQL, Spark, Kafka; cloud services (AWS/Azure/GC).
• Experience with multi-source sensor data and DoD data standards is desirable.
• Strong communication to technical and non-technical audiences.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy ML models for UAS/sUAS threat detection.
• Lead data science efforts across the full ML lifecycle from data prep to deployment.
• Integrate ML models into ISR platforms and sensor fusion architectures.
• Provide guidance during model testing and operational evaluation.
• Analyze large structured and unstructured data for actionable insights.
• Support proposals, white papers, and assessments on AI/ML in defense.
• Coordinate with program managers and government stakeholders to scale pipelines.

Skills

Data science

Machine learning

Python

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Data Science/CS/Math/Stats/EE

Master's degree or PhD preferred

Tools

SQL

Spark

Kafka

Cloud services (AWS/Azure/Google Cloud)

Job description

Join our team at Core One! Our mission is to be at the forefront of devising analytical, operational and technical solutions to our Nation's most complex national security challenges. In order to achieve our mission, Core One values people first! We are committed to recruiting, nurturing, and retaining top talent! We offer a competitive total compensation package that sets us apart from our competition. Core One is a team-oriented, dynamic, and growing company that values exceptional performance!

The program will support US Special Operations Command (SOCOM) at MacDill AFB in Tampa, Florida.

*This position is contingent upon contract award*

*This position requires a TS/SCI Clearance*

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy machine learning models and algorithms to support UAS/sUAS threat detection, classification, tracking, and behavioral analysis in support of operational and programmatic requirements.
• Lead and support data science efforts across the full ML lifecycle, including data collection, preprocessing, feature engineering, model development, validation, deployment, and monitoring.
• Support the integration of ML models and AI-enabled capabilities into UAS/sUAS detection systems, ISR platforms, sensor fusion architectures, and command and control systems.
• Provide technical oversight and guidance during model testing, validation, and operational evaluation to ensure algorithm performance meets mission requirements and identify areas for improvement.
• Analyze large volumes of structured and unstructured data from multiple sources, including sensor data, imagery, signals, and open-source information, to develop actionable intelligence insights.
• Support the development and review of technical proposals, white papers, and research assessments related to AI/ML applications in UAS detection, counter-UAS operations, and autonomous systems.
• Coordinate with program managers, data engineers, and government stakeholders to ensure data pipelines, storage architectures, and computing infrastructure support ML model development and deployment at scale.
• Apply computer vision, natural language processing (NLP), and signal processing techniques to develop multi-domain analytical capabilities in support of UAS/sUAS threat analysis.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline; Master's degree or PhD preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in data science, machine learning, or artificial intelligence with a focus on defense, aerospace, or national security applications.
• Demonstrated experience with the full ML development lifecycle, including data preprocessing, model training, hyperparameter tuning, validation, and production deployment.
• Hands-on experience with data engineering tools and platforms including SQL, Spark, Kafka, and cloud-based data services such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
• Experience working with multi-source sensor data, including RF signals, EO/IR imagery, radar, and acoustic data, to develop sensor fusion and anomaly detection capabilities is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate complex data findings into actionable insights and communicate results to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Experience with geospatial data analysis, trajectory modeling, or pattern of life analytics in support of UAS/sUAS or ISR applications is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with DoD data standards, cybersecurity requirements, and AI ethics frameworks including the DoD AI Strategy and Responsible AI guidelines.

Core One is anEqual Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation,national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.