Lead Data Scientist

BigBear.ai • Norfolk, VA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

BigBear.AI is hiring a Lead Data Scientist to join a team of data scientists, data engineers, analysts, mission technologists, and domain experts supporting technology-driven decision support and enterprise data modernization for the Department of War (DoW). The position is located on-site in Norfolk, Virginia, due to the need for active customer engagement and the sensitive nature of the data and applications.

The Lead Data Scientist will direct the design, development, and implementation of advanced analytical models and techniques for complex problems involving massive datasets. The role explores and analyzes data to uncover actionable insights, develops solutions to support decision-making in mission-critical DoW operations, and integrates analytical products into operational workflows. It also communicates findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders and provides technical leadership and mentorship to junior team members.

Requirements

• Active SECRET security clearance with eligibility for TS/SCI.
• Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field and 8–10 years of experience; or a master’s degree and 6–8 years of experience; or a PhD and 3–5 years of experience. These are listed as gate requirements with no substitution.
• Strong experience designing and implementing machine learning models and statistical techniques.
• Expertise in Python, R, or equivalent programming languages for data analysis and modeling.
• Proficiency in SQL and relational and non-relational databases.
• Experience with distributed computing frameworks such as Spark or Databricks.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms such as AWS (SageMaker, Redshift, Glue) or Azure equivalents.
• Strong knowledge of data visualization tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or equivalent.
• Experience with version control practices such as Git.
• Ability to work with structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data sources.

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting DoW enterprise data platforms.
• Familiarity with RMF, NIST 800-53, and DoD IL-level cloud environments.
• Experience with natural language processing (NLP) and computer vision techniques.
• Knowledge of metadata management, data cataloging, and governance tools.
• Experience in Agile or DevSecOps environments in government programs.

Responsibilities

• Determine appropriate methods to explore, mine, analyze, and manipulate extremely massive datasets.
• Develop and analyze modeling and measuring techniques using mathematics, machine learning, statistical methods, and engineering approaches to address complex problems.
• Design and implement predictive, prescriptive, and descriptive models for mission-critical decision-making.
• Create user-friendly reports and dashboards using databases, analyses, programs, and scripts.
• Collaborate with data engineers to connect and integrate databases, programs, and systems.
• Work with stakeholders to understand analytical problems and develop tailored solutions.
• Communicate results and insights clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay current with trends and technologies in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior data scientists and analysts.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior