Expert Exploitation Scientist / Data Scientist

Riverside Research Institute; Fair Oaks (VA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Riverside Research Institute in Falls Church, VA seeks an Expert Exploitation Scientist / Data Scientist to lead GEOINT exploitation capabilities, integrating sensor and data science approaches.

You will guide multi-sensor workflows, develop analytic methods, mentor staff, and deliver capabilities to DoD and IC customers. The role requires 15+ years in GEOINT, strong Python/MATLAB, and a TS clearance, with responsibility for SOPs and demonstrations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field.

Responsibilities

• Lead multi-sensor exploitation across EO, IR, SAR, and more.

Skills

Python

MATLAB

Machine learning

Analytical modeling

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Data Science, Remote Sensing, Image Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field

Tools

ENVI/IDL

ArcGIS

ERDAS

GDAL

Job description

Riverside Overview

Riverside Research is an independent National Security Nonprofit dedicated to research and development in the national interest. We provide high-end technical services, research and development, and prototype solutions to some of the country’s most challenging technical problems. All Riverside Research opportunities require U.S. Citizenship.

Position Overview

Riverside Research is seeking an experienced Expert Exploitation Scientist / Data Scientist to lead the development, integration, and delivery of advanced GEOINT exploitation capabilities in Falls Church VA. This role combines deep expertise in sensor phenomenology, data science, analytical modeling, and exploitation tradecraft. The Senior Exploitation Scientist will guide multi-sensor workflows, design new analytic methods, mentor junior staff, and collaborate directly with government partners to enhance intelligence production for DoD and Intelligence Community missions.

Responsibilities

• Lead multi-sensor exploitation efforts across EO, IR, SAR, multispectral, and specialized collections
• Develop advanced analytic algorithms and models for detection, classification, change analysis, and data fusion
• Apply data science methodologies—including statistical modeling, machine learning, and automation to improve exploitation accuracy and efficiency
• Perform deep-dive image science analyses, sensor performance evaluations, and phenomenology-driven characterization
• Design and refine data workflows, ensuring reproducible processing, metadata consistency, and high-quality data governance
• Integrate ML/AI capabilities into exploitation pipelines, coordinating with engineering, R\&D, and mission partners
• Prepare and deliver technical briefings, analytical reports, and capability demonstrations to senior customers
• Lead development of SOPs, analytic standards, and documentation for multi-mission exploitation operations
• Provide direct mentorship to analysts, data scientists, and junior exploitation personnel
• Coordinate with collection managers, system developers, and intelligence stakeholders to optimize tasking strategies and analytical impact
• Ensure timely delivery of mission-critical GEOINT products supporting operational and strategic decision-making
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Data Science, Remote Sensing, Image Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, a related field, or equivalent experience
• 15+ years of experience in GEOINT exploitation, analytic modeling, or advanced image science
• Strong proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or similar analytical languages
• Experience developing machine‑learning or statistical models for imagery exploitation or intelligence workflows
• Hands-on expertise with common exploitation tools (ENVI/IDL, ArcGIS, ERDAS, GDAL, or relevant sensor-specific toolsets)
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams and guide analytic development
• Strong understanding of DoD/IC data standards, mission priorities, and production workflows
• Active TS or higher clearance

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with multi-sensor fusion, hyperspectral analysis, or advanced phenomenology-driven modeling
• Familiarity with cloud environments, data orchestration frameworks, or large-scale data architectures
• Experience supporting R&D, prototype evaluation, or system integration efforts
• GEOINT-related certifications or recognized technical publications
• Excellent communication skills and ability to engage senior customers

Global Comp

$000,000 - $000,000 This represents the typical compensation range for this position based on experience, location and other factors.

Closing Statement

Riverside Research Institute is a not-for-profit, technology-oriented defense company, where service to our customers and support of our staff is our overall mission.

Riverside is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding recruitment and hiring.

Riverside offers comprehensive compensation and benefit packages to our employees.

Riverside bases its employment decisions solely on technical experience, qualifications and other job-related criteria related to our organizational purpose as a not-for-profit company, and without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, veteran’s status or any other status legally protected by applicable federal, state, and local law.