Senior GEOINT Exploitation Scientist & Data Scientist

Riverside Research; Fairfax (VA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Riverside Research in Falls Church, VA seeks an experienced Exploitation Scientist / Data Scientist to lead GEOINT exploitation capabilities across multi-sensor data, guide analytics, and mentor staff. You will work with government partners to deliver mission-critical intelligence products.

The role requires strong coding (Python/MATLAB), ML model development for imagery, and deep knowledge of sensor phenomenology, data governance, and DoD/IC workflows, with an active TS clearance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Data Science, Remote Sensing, Image Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience.
• 7+ years of GEOINT exploitation, analytic modeling, or advanced image science.
• Strong proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or similar analytical programming languages.
• Experience developing ML or statistical models for imagery exploitation or intelligence workflows.
• Hands-on expertise with ENVI/IDL, ArcGIS, ERDAS, GDAL, or relevant 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 security clearance.

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 the 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.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Python

MATLAB

Machine learning

Image analysis

Data governance

Leadership

DoD/IC standards

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Data Science / Remote Sensing / Image Science / Physics / Electrical Engineering

Tools

ENVI/IDL

ArcGIS

ERDAS

GDAL

Job description

Riverside Research in Falls Church, VA seeks an experienced Exploitation Scientist / Data Scientist to lead GEOINT exploitation capabilities across multi-sensor data, guide analytics, and mentor staff. You will work with government partners to deliver mission-critical intelligence products.

The role requires strong coding (Python/MATLAB), ML model development for imagery, and deep knowledge of sensor phenomenology, data governance, and DoD/IC workflows, with an active TS clearance.