Lead Data Scientist

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Lead Data Scientist to join a federal-focused technology firm specializing in data-driven solutions, cloud engineering, and digital transformation for government agencies. This is a Hybrid role, 2 days on-site in the Washington D.C. area, and requires either an active DHS clearance or active DoD Top Secret Clearance. The lead Data Scientist will design and implement AI solutions that are grounded in foundational and large language models, partnering with stakeholders to solve complex business problems by using AI, applying programming expertise (i.e., Python), and applying advanced analytics to analyze unstructured data.

Responsibilities of the Lead Data Scientist:

• Partner with stakeholders to define analytical needs and deliver actionable solutions.
• Develop and maintain data models to support advanced analytics initiatives, AI/ML, Generative AI, and predictive analytics intiatives, AI/ML, Generative AI, and predictive analytics.
• Design and create interactive dashboards and reports using Tableau and Power BI.
• Present findings in a clear, concise manner tailored to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Work with relational databases (e.g., Oracle, PostgreSQL, MySQL) to support data integrity and consistency.
• Automate routine data processes using a variety of scripts and tools. (e.g., Python, Power Automate, SQL, AWS).
• Leverage AWS Cloud services (e.g., S3, EC2, RDS, Lambda) for data processing, storage, and retrieval.
• Ability to guide and support cloud modernization of data processes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineers, analysts, and business stakeholders.
• Clearly articulate analytical concepts and results to a wide range of audiences.
• Contribute to client-facing presentations and written reports.

Qualifications for the Lead Data Scientist:

• Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field with 6+ years of progressive experience in data science, advanced analytics, data visualization, and reporting, with demonstrated ownership of analytical solutions from concept through delivery and operationalization.
• Proven ability to lead the design, development, and deployment of data-driven solutions, including AI/ML models, predictive analytics, and business intelligence products, in production environments.
• Advanced proficiency in Python for data manipulation, automation, and development of scalable analytical workflows.
• Strong expertise in SQL and relational databases (e.g., Oracle, PostgreSQL, MySQL), with the ability to design efficient data models and support complex data integration needs.
• Extensive experience developing automated data pipelines and analytics workflows using Python, SQL, and related tools, with a focus on scalability, reliability, and maintainability.
• Hands-on experience leveraging cloud services (e.g., S3, EC2, RDS, Lambda) to design and implement data processing, storage, and analytics solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to design and deliver impactful data visualizations and dashboards using Tableau and/or Power BI, with a strong emphasis on data storytelling and executive-level communication.
• Experience leading or significantly contributing to the full analytics lifecycle, including problem framing, data acquisition, modeling, validation, deployment, and performance monitoring.
• Familiarity with modern software development practices, including version control (e.g., Git), testing, and iterative development methodologies.
• Experience developing prototypes and proof-of-concept solutions, with the ability to rapidly iterate and transition solutions into production-ready systems.
• Active DHS clearance or active DoD Top Secret Clearance
• Desired Skills:
  • Masters Degree
  • Strong knowledge of change management processes and technologies (e.g., GitHub)
  • Experience modeling and analyzing big data in cloud environments.
  • Demonstrated experience developing prototypes and proof-of-concept applications or software from end-to-end.
  • Experience with image processing and signals analysis.
  • Knowledge of federal data governance standards, compliance frameworks, and best practices.

Compensation for the Data Scientist:

• Salary Range: $180,000 - $200,000 *depending on experience*
• Comprehensive Benefits: Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k Plan, PTO, Holidays, Sick Leave if required by law

This job opens for applications on 04/02. Applications for this job will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.

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