Data Scientist

Southern Arkansas University; United States; On-site; USD 125,776 - 163,514; Full time

Job summary

Southern Arkansas University is seeking an expert analyst to support business lines within the Office of Human Resources Management. The role focuses on applying in-depth knowledge of computer theory, algorithms, and data structures to analyze and model data effectively.

The ideal candidate will have a degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field and experience with machine learning and large datasets. This position offers an opportunity to influence decision-making and communicate analyses effectively.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required.
• 1 year of specialized experience at GS-13 level or equivalent.
• Experience with machine learning and large dataset analysis.

Responsibilities

• Analyze large datasets using advanced statistical techniques.
• Communicate insights through visual summaries.
• Oversee data preparation and report generation.

Skills

Advanced statistical techniques

Machine learning

Data visualization

Database warehousing

R or Python

Agile development

Education

Degree in Mathematics, statistics, computer science, or data science

Tools

Git

CI/CD tooling

Job description

Position Overview

In this position, you will serve as an expert analyst and advisor to senior management, applying in-depth knowledge of computer theory, algorithms, data structures, programming concepts and languages, and computer architecture to support business lines throughout the Office of Human Resources Management.

Compensation

Salary ranges from $125,776.00 (GS‑14, Step 1) to $163,514.00 (GS‑14, Step 10).

Typical duties include:

• Applying advanced data science techniques including data extraction, transformation, cleaning, modeling, machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) to process and extract insights from structured and unstructured data.
• Applying advanced quantitative, computer science, mathematical, and statistical skills to interpret extremely large and unstructured data sets, the results of which will be used for forecasting critical problems and making data‑driven decisions regarding the administrative and programmatic aspects of HRM and CBP's operations and management.
• Gathering, processing, and converting raw and unstructured data from a variety of systems and databases into clean, organized information.
• Overseeing the preparation of reports using machine learning, programming, and data visualization skills, and presenting findings from partner organizations within HRM.
• Serving as the primary HRM representative on data science matters in contacts with agencies to participate in planning long‑range research and development processes.

Qualifications

Basic Requirements

Degree: Mathematics, statistics, computer science, data science, or a field directly related to the position. The degree must be in a major field of study (at least at the baccalaureate level) that is appropriate for the position.

Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major field of study (30 semester hours) as shown in paragraph A above, plus additional education or appropriate experience.

You qualify for this position if you meet the basic requirement listed above and possess the experience described below.

Experience

Eligible for the GS‑14 grade level if you possess 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, performing duties such as:

• Applying advanced statistical techniques, including machine learning or statistical algorithms to analyze large datasets, identify trends, and extract actionable insights to inform decision‑making using programming languages such as R or Python.
• Applying expertise in database warehousing and structured querying to extract large volumes of structured and unstructured data from disparate data sources, ensuring data quality and optimizing model performance.
• Applying principles and tooling common in software development, such as CI/CD pipelining, Git, DevSecOps, and Agile development.
• Translating structured and unstructured data into clear, impactful visualizations, including charts, graphs, infographics, and other visual summaries. Effectively communicating trends, patterns, and insights to support decision‑making.
• Communicating technical and analytical findings through briefings, presentations, and reports to individuals and executives with varying levels of technical expertise.

NOTE: Your resume must explicitly indicate how you meet this requirement, otherwise you will be found ineligible. Please see the "Required Documents" section below for additional resume requirements.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

You must meet all qualification requirements, including education if applicable to this position, subject to verification at any stage of the application process by 06/17/2026.