Data Scientist

Program Overview

About The Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative Data Scientist to join our team at MacDill Air Force Base, supporting the Unites States Special Operations Command (SOCOM). The Data Scientist will play a critical role in leveraging advanced data analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and statistical modeling to support informational support services operations. This position requires expertise in data science methodologies, tools, and technologies to extract actionable insights from complex datasets and enhance mission effectiveness. 

Responsibilities

• Lead design and delivery of advanced ML/AI models for operational analytics.
• Oversee social media analytics pipelines and extraction of actionable insights.
• Design and validate survey instruments; apply survey methodology and statistical analysis.
• Provide senior technical advisory to SOCOM leadership and cross-functional teams.
• Mentor junior data scientists and guide best practices in data engineering and modeling.
• Coordinate with intelligence and operations stakeholders to align analytic products with mission needs.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Clearance: TS/SCI (active)
• Experience: Minimum 8 years in data science / analytics
• Master’s degree or PhD in Statistics or Data Science
• Technical Skills: ML/AI model development, Python/R, TensorFlow/PyTorch, NLP, network analysis, data engineering, SQL
• Domain Expertise: Social media analytics, survey methodology, statistical inference, experimental design
• Experience developing analytic products for senior military leadership
• Experience with influence operations effectiveness measurement
• Familiarity with audience analysis tools and methodologies
• Experience with multi-language text analytics
• Other: Strong communication and briefing skills to senior leadership; prior DoD/SOCOM experience preferred

Desired / Preferred

• Prior experience in operational or intelligence environments
• Experience with geospatial analytics, streaming data, or cloud platforms (AWS/Azure)
• Publications or demonstrated leadership in ML/AI projects
• Experience with OSINT/PAI data sources

SCA / Union / Intern Rate or Range

Details

Target Salary Range: $112,000 - $179,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual’s experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.

Benefits Statement: Peraton offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, health savings account, short/long term disability, EAP, parental leave, 401(k), paid time off (PTO) for vacation, and company paid holidays. A full listing of available benefits can be viewed at

Application Duration Statement: The application period for the job is estimated to be 30 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.

EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.