Data Scientist – Mid Level

Moffatt & Nichol•Costa Mesa, CA

3d•$107,000 - $131,000•Onsite

About The Position

Moffatt & Nichol specializes in large complex waterfront infrastructure projects and is recognized as one of the worldwide leaders in this field. We are actively looking for a Data Scientist to join our Costa Mesa, CA office. As a successful Data Scientist, you will have 4 to 6 years of hands-on experience to perform exploratory data analysis and develop machine-learning models that drive data-informed decisions. This role requires strong analytical thinking, solid Machine Learning (ML) fundamentals, and the ability to translate business or operational problems into data science solutions. We are seeking a curious, self-driven professional who is motivated by building solutions that deliver meaningful, real-world impact. You will join a collaborative, high-energy team that values learning, continuous improvement, and thoughtful problem-solving. We value individuals with a growth mindset, people who are comfortable navigating ambiguity, do not expect to have all the answers on day one, and genuinely enjoy learning and solving problems together. In this role, you will operate within a rapidly evolving AI/ML (artificial intelligence/machine learning) landscape, gaining hands-on exposure to emerging tools, technologies, and best practices. You will be part of a supportive, forward-thinking team that shares ideas openly, challenges each other constructively, and cares deeply about building solutions that make a real difference. About Moffatt & Nichol: Moffatt & Nichol is a leading U.S.-based global infrastructure advisor specializing in the planning and design of facilities that shape and serve our coastlines, harbors and rivers, as well as an innovator in transportation. For the 4th year in a row, Moffatt & Nichol is Ranked #1 in Engineering News-Record for Marine & Port Facilities in the U.S. Additionally, our firm consistently ranks in the Top 100 Pure Designers in the US and the Top 50 Designers in International Markets. Moffatt & Nichol's professional staff includes engineers, planners, scientists and architects who serve our global client base from offices in Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Pacific Rim. The firm provides clients worldwide with customized service and a level of excellence that have become the firm’s hallmark in several primary practice areas – ports and harbors; coastal, environmental and water resources; urban waterfronts and marinas; transportation, bridges and rail; inspection and rehabilitation; and energy.

Requirements

4 to 6 years of professional experience as a Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer or in a closely related role; required
Master’s or Ph.D. degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Engineering, or a related field; required
Strong proficiency in Python (e.g., pandas, NumPy, scikit-learn, TensorFlow, Keras matplotlib/seaborn); required
Solid understanding of statistics, probability, and machine-learning algorithms; required
Experience performing structured EDA on real-world, messy datasets; required
Knowledge of ML lifecycle tools (e.g., MLflow, Airflow, Docker); required
Experience working with SQL and relational databases; required
Ability to explain complex analytical results in a clear, business-focused manner; required
All new hires will be required to successfully complete and pass a pre-employment (post offer) background check in compliance with NIST 800-171
Moffatt & Nichol uses E-Verify and employment is contingent upon the legal ability to obtain employment in the U.S. and to present the required documentation at hire

Nice To Haves

Experience with model deployment or production ML workflows; desired
Familiarity with cloud platforms (Azure or AWS); desired
Experience with time-series data, forecasting, or optimization problems; desired
Domain experience in infrastructure, engineering, logistics, or operations; desired

Responsibilities

Perform exploratory data analysis (EDA) to uncover patterns, anomalies, and actionable insights
Design, develop, and evaluate machine-learning models (e.g., regression, classification, clustering, time series)
Conduct feature engineering, model selection, and hyperparameter tuning
Validate models using appropriate metrics and ensure robustness and interpretability
Translate business problems into data science workflows and solutions
Communicate findings through clear visualizations, reports, and presentations
Collaborate with data engineers, software engineers, and domain experts to develop models
Contribute to best practices in coding, experimentation, and documentation

Benefits

Enjoy low-cost employee healthcare with our company-paid high-deductible medical, dental, and vision plans
Family coverage is available
Low-deductible plan available
Generous HSA match to help manage healthcare expenses
Stay energized with our amazing Wellness Program (with financial incentives) to keep you healthy and fit
Features include: monthly one-on-one sessions with nutritionists, access to a Healthwise Pharmacist, mindfulness apps like The Calm and BetterHelp, and more
Free and confidential Employee Assistance Programs for counseling and support
Generous Paid time off (15 to 25 days based on experience level), Paid Holidays (7), and a floating holiday
401(k) match to help you reach your financial goals
Excellent Life Insurance coverage, fully paid by the company
You may also have the option to further your education with our comprehensive Tuition Reimbursement Program
Plus, there are plenty of training opportunities, a Leadership Development Program, a formal Mentoring program, an active YP (Young Professionals) group, and so much more
And because we care about all members of your family, we offer Pet Insurance to look after your furry friends