Data Scientist II (Journeyman)
Role summary
The Data Scientist II (Journeyman) will embed within the USCIS Field Operations Directorate (FOD) analytics team, leveraging advanced statistical and machine learning techniques to analyze immigration and operational data. This role involves developing predictive models, workload forecasting tools, and interactive dashboards using Python, R, Databricks, Tableau, or Power BI. Key responsibilities include conducting trend analysis, impact assessments, and providing data-driven recommendations to leadership to enhance operational efficiency and support decision-making. The position requires a Bachelor's degree in a quantitative field, 3-10 years of data science experience (with at least 2 years in government contracting), and proficiency in Python/R and data visualization tools.
POSITION TITLE: Data Scientist II (Journeyman)
CLIENT: USCIS, Field Operations Directorate (FOD)
CONTRACT: BPIMSS — OASIS+ SDVOSB Task Order (Option 1+) | Camp Springs, MD (Hybrid)
CLEARANCE: DHS Public Trust suitability (SF-85P); US Citizenship required
COMPENSATION: $125,000 – $175,000 base salary (commensurate with experience)
ABOUT THE ROLE
You will serve as the data science practitioner embedded within the FOD analytics team, applying advanced statistical and machine learning techniques to transform USCIS immigration and operational data into actionable intelligence. You will own the development of predictive models, interactive dashboards, and analytical tools that support FOD workload forecasting, staffing optimization, and policy impact analysis. You bring working proficiency in Python, Tableau or Power BI, Databricks, and a deep understanding of the quantitative methods that drive data-driven government decision-making.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop and deploy predictive models and workload forecasting tools for key immigration metrics using Python, R, and/or Databricks
- Build and maintain interactive dashboards and business intelligence visualizations using Tableau and/or Power BI
- Expand deterministic and probabilistic models supporting SAVE, E-Verify, and FOD eligibility/risk/complexity screening protocols
- Apply machine learning (classification, regression, clustering, NLP), hierarchical regression, and other advanced statistical techniques to large structured and unstructured datasets
- Conduct trend analysis and impact assessments on operational immigration data to identify efficiency opportunities
- Develop and track KPIs and ROI metrics for operational initiatives; provide data-driven recommendations to leadership
- Collaborate with SMEs, program managers, and business analysts to understand data collection methods, validate model assumptions, and interpret findings
- Support Staffing Allocation Model (SAM) tool development and maintenance
- Create and maintain dynamic data reports, data dictionaries, and analytical documentation
- Support UAT and operational readiness activities for data product deployments
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or related quantitative field (Master's preferred)
- 3–10 years of data science or applied analytics experience, with at least 2 years in a federal or government contracting environment
- Proficiency in Python (pandas, scikit-learn, statsmodels) and/or R for data analysis and modeling
- Experience with Tableau and/or Power BI for interactive dashboard development
- Demonstrated experience with machine learning techniques and statistical inference
- Experience analyzing large government datasets; familiarity with data governance requirements
- US Citizenship required; ability to obtain DHS Public Trust suitability
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to explain complex findings to non-technical stakeholders
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with USCIS, DHS, SSA, or other immigration/identity management datasets
- Proficiency with Databricks, Apache Spark, or cloud-based analytics platforms (AWS GovCloud, Azure Government)
- Experience with the USCIS Staffing Allocation Model (SAM) or similar workforce planning tools
- Familiarity with SAVE and E-Verify data ecosystems
- Machine learning certifications (AWS ML Specialty, Google ML, or equivalent)
WORK ENVIRONMENT: Hybrid — Camp Springs, MD / Remote per USCIS telework policy.