Exploitation Scientist/Data Scientist

Riverside Research Institute; Fairfax (VA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

Riverside Research Institute seeks an Exploitation Scientist / Data Scientist to lead advanced GEOINT exploitation capabilities for multi-sensor intelligence production in Fairfax, VA. The role emphasizes leadership across EO, IR, SAR, and multispectral data,analytic modeling, and ML integration.

The candidate will mentor analysts, develop SOPs, and deliver briefings to senior customers while ensuring reproducible workflows and data governance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Data Science, Remote Sensing, Image Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 7+ years of 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 ENVI/IDL, ArcGIS, ERDAS, GDAL or relevant sensor-specific tools.

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 approaches, including statistical modeling, machine learning, and automation, to improve exploitation accuracy and efficiency.
• Conduct deep-dive image science analyses, sensor performance evaluations, and phenomenology-driven characterization.
• Design and refine data workflows to support reproducible processing, metadata consistency, and data governance.
• Integrate ML/AI capabilities into exploitation pipelines while 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 and analytical impact.
• Ensure timely delivery of mission-critical GEOINT products for operational and strategic decision-making.

Skills

Python

MATLAB

Analytic modeling

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher

Tools

ENVI/IDL

ArcGIS

ERDAS

GDAL

Job description

Riverside Research Institute is seeking an Exploitation Scientist / Data Scientist to lead advanced GEOINT exploitation capabilities for multi-sensor intelligence production in Fairfax, VA.

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 approaches, including statistical modeling, machine learning, and automation, to improve exploitation accuracy and efficiency
• Conduct deep-dive image science analyses, sensor performance evaluations, and phenomenology-driven characterization
• Design and refine data workflows to support reproducible processing, metadata consistency, and data governance
• Integrate ML/AI capabilities into exploitation pipelines while 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 and analytical impact
• Ensure timely delivery of mission-critical GEOINT products for operational and strategic decision-making
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Data Science, Remote Sensing, Image Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, a related field, or equivalent experience
• 7+ 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 workflowsHands-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

Technologies

• Python
• MATLAB
• ENVI/IDL
• ArcGIS
• ERDAS
• GDAL

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

Location and Compensation

• Location: Fairfax, VA (onsite)
• Salary: USD 110,000 - 135,000 per year