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Data Scientist - Experienced to Expert Level (Maryland)
Department of Defense
National Security Agency/Central Security Service
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Summary
Newly hired experienced Data Scientists will be assigned to a mission office by aligning their data science skills with mission needs. Due to the challenging and evolving nature of NSA data science problems, Data Scientists are expected to continue broadening and deepening their expertise throughout their career. For more information, please visit: https://apply.intelligencecareers.gov/job-description/1259937
Learn more about this agency
Summary
Newly hired experienced Data Scientists will be assigned to a mission office by aligning their data science skills with mission needs. Due to the challenging and evolving nature of NSA data science problems, Data Scientists are expected to continue broadening and deepening their expertise throughout their career. For more information, please visit: https://apply.intelligencecareers.gov/job-description/1259937
Learn more about this agency
Overview
Help
Accepting applications
Posted yesterday · Apply by 07/20/26
Due by 11:59 p.m. ET on July 20, 2026
Location
Few vacancies in the following location:
Fort Meade, MD
No matching locations found.
Work site options
Telework eligible No Remote job No Relocation expenses reimbursed Yes-You may qualify for reimbursement of relocation expenses in accordance with agency policy. Salary $132,751 - $197,200 per year Pay scale & grade
GG 13 - 15
Promotion potential None
Learn more about pay scale and grade
Pay scale and grade determines the salary of the job.
Work schedule Full-time Travel Required Not required
Appointment type Permanent
Occupations and job series
Supervisory status No Federal service type This job is in the Excepted Service Represented by a union No
Drug test Yes Security clearance Sensitive Compartmented Information Position sensitivity and risk Critical-Sensitive (CS)/High Risk
Jobs require a background check and some require a security clearance. The type depends on the job.
Background check type
Financial disclosure required Yes
Some jobs require financial disclosure to identify conflicts of interests.
Announcement number 1259937 Control number 875461200
This job is open to
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The public
U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.
Federal employees - Excepted service
Current federal employees whose agencies have their own hiring rules, pay scales and evaluation criteria.
Veterans
Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces or a spouse, widow, widower or parent of a veteran, who may be eligible for derived preference
Individuals with disabilities
Individuals who are eligible under Schedule A.
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Duties
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Data science at the National Security Agency (NSA) is a multi-disciplinary field that uses elements of mathematics, statistics, computer science, and application-specific knowledge to gather, make, and communicate principled conclusions from data. Data Science is a broad field and a team effort, spanning all the expertise needed to derive value from data. It encompasses AI Engineering, Data Engineering, ML Ops Engineering, and Human Perception and Cognition Engineering in addition to the traditional applications of data science.
Data science is present in every aspect of the mission. NSA Data Scientists tackle challenging real-world problems leveraging big data, high-performance computing, machine learning, and a breadth of other methodologies. We are looking for critical thinkers, problem solvers, and motivated individuals who are enthusiastic about data and believe that answers to hard questions lie in the yet-to-be-told story of diverse, complicated data sets. You will employ your mathematical science, computer science, and quantitative analysis skills to develop solutions to complex data problems and take full advantage of NSAs capabilities to tackle the highest priority foreign intelligence and cybersecurity challenges.
Responsibilities may include:
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
Qualifications
The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position.
Applicants will be asked to complete the Data Science Examination (DSE) which evaluates their knowledge of statistics, mathematics, and computer science topics that pertain to data science work. Passing this examination at a local testing site is a requirement in order to be considered for selection into a data scientist position. Upon passing the examination, applicants will be evaluated for the minimum qualifications outlined in this ad. Transcripts for each academic institution are required prior to being invited to interview with Agency data science professionals and should be submitted as part of the online application. Unofficial transcripts are fine at this stage.
Note that different degree fields have different requirements as described below.
Degrees in Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Applied Statistics, Data Science, Operations Research, Quantitative/Computational Finance, Econometrics/Quantitative Economics, Computer Science, or Computer Engineering qualify without additional coursework or a Data Science certificate.
Degrees in Engineering, Physical Sciences, Mathematical Biology/Bioinformatics, Life Sciences, Environmental Science, Data Analytics, or Information Science/Systems/Technology, must include either a Data Science certificate from an accredited college/university OR 5 or more courses in advanced mathematics (for example, calculus, differential equations, discrete mathematics, linear algebra, and calculus-based statistics) and/or advanced computer science (for example, algorithms, programming, data structures, data mining, artificial intelligence).
Other degrees must be accompanied by a Data Science certificate from an accredited college/university, and must include a total of 5 or more courses in advanced mathematics AND advanced computer science. At least one course must be from advanced mathematics (for example, calculus, differential equations, discrete mathematics, linear algebra, and calculus-based statistics). At least one course must be from advanced computer science (for example, algorithms, programming, data structures, computer architecture, data mining, artificial intelligence).
Experience must include both programming and one or more of the following: designing/implementing machine learning, data mining, statistical analysis, statistical consulting, artificial intelligence development, computational science, software engineering, technical writing, data visualization, or data engineering. Experience must also include formal or informal leadership.
SENIOR
Entry is with an Associates degree plus 8 years of relevant experience, or a Bachelors degree plus 6 years of relevant experience, or a Masters degree plus 4 years of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree plus 2 years of relevant experience.
EXPERT
Entry is with an Associates degree plus 11 years of relevant experience, or a Bachelors degree plus 9 years of relevant experience, or a Masters degree plus 7 years of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree plus 5 years of relevant experience.
Education
The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position.
Note that different degree fields have different requirements as described below.
Degrees in Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Applied Statistics, Data Science, Operations Research, Quantitative/Computational Finance, Econometrics/Quantitative Economics, Computer Science, or Computer Engineering qualify without additional coursework or a Data Science certificate.
Degrees in Engineering, Physical Sciences, Mathematical Biology/Bioinformatics, Life Sciences, Environmental Science, Data Analytics, or Information Science/Systems/Technology, must include either a Data Science certificate from an accredited college/university OR 5 or more courses in advanced mathematics (for example, calculus, differential equations, discrete mathematics, linear algebra, and calculus-based statistics) and/or advanced computer science (for example, algorithms, programming, data structures, data mining, artificial intelligence).
Other degrees must be accompanied by a Data Science certificate from an accredited college/university, and must include a total of 5 or more courses in advanced mathematics AND advanced computer science. At least one course must be from advanced mathematics (for example, calculus, differential equations, discrete mathematics, linear algebra, and calculus-based statistics). At least one course must be from advanced computer science (for example, algorithms, programming, data structures, computer architecture, data mining, artificial intelligence).
Additional information
Pay: Salary offers are based on candidates education level and years of experience relevant to the position and also take into account information provided by the hiring manager/organization regarding the work level for the position.
Salary Range: $132,751 - $197,200 (Senior, Expert)
Salary range varies by location, work level, and relevant experience to the position.
Training will be provided based on the selectees needs and experience.
Benefits: NSA offers a comprehensive benefits package.
Work Schedule: This is a full-time position, Monday - Friday, with basic 8hr/day work requirement between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible).
DCIPS Trial Period:
If selected for this position, you will be required to serve a two-year DCIPS trial period, unless you are a veterans preference-eligible employee, in which case you are required to serve a one-year trial period. This trial period runs concurrently with your commitment to the position, if applicable. Before finalizing your appointment at the conclusion of your trial period, NSA will determine whether your continued employment advances the public interest. This decision will be based on factors such as your performance and conduct; the Agencys needs and interests; whether your continued employment would advance the Agencys organizational goals; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.
Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
If you do not receive certification for continued employment, you should receive written notice prior to the end of your trial period that your employment will be terminated and the effective date of such termination.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
The ideal candidate has a desire for continual learning along with excellent analytical, problem-solving, communication (oral and written), and interpersonal skills who is:
Knowledge, skills, and relevant experience in programming, formal or informal leadership, and one or more of the following is required:
Benefits
Help
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
Required documents
Required Documents
Help
The National Security Agency (NSA) is part of the DoD Intelligence Community Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). All positions in the NSA are in the Excepted Services under 10 United States Codes (USC) 1601 appointment authority. DoD Components with DCIPS positions apply Veterans Preference to eligible candidates as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 USC, in accordance with the procedures provided in DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 2005, DCIPS Employment and Placement. If you are a veteran claiming veterans preference, as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 U.S.C., you may be asked to submit documents verifying your eligibility.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
How to Apply
Help
To apply, please visit: https://apply.intelligencecareers.gov/job-description/1259937
Agency contact information
NSA POC
Phone 1-844-424-4737 Email intelcareers@nsa.gov Address NSA External Hiring
9800 Savage Road
Fort Meade, MD 20755
US
Next steps
To apply, please visit: https://apply.intelligencecareers.gov/job-description/1259937
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
Criminal history inquiries Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
Financial suitability New employee probationary period
Privacy Act Reasonable accommodation policy
Selective Service Signature and false statements
Social security number request
Required Documents
Help
The National Security Agency (NSA) is part of the DoD Intelligence Community Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). All positions in the NSA are in the Excepted Services under 10 United States Codes (USC) 1601 appointment authority. DoD Components with DCIPS positions apply Veterans Preference to eligible candidates as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 USC, in accordance with the procedures provided in DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 2005, DCIPS Employment and Placement. If you are a veteran claiming veterans preference, as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 U.S.C., you may be asked to submit documents verifying your eligibility.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
How to Apply
Help
To apply, please visit: https://apply.intelligencecareers.gov/job-description/1259937
Expand Hide how to apply
Agency contact information
NSA POC
Phone 1-844-424-4737 Email intelcareers@nsa.gov Address NSA External Hiring
9800 Savage Road
Fort Meade, MD 20755
US
Next steps
To apply, please visit: https://apply.intelligencecareers.gov/job-description/1259937
Expand Hide next steps
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
Criminal history inquiries Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
Financial suitability New employee probationary period
Privacy Act Reasonable accommodation policy
Selective Service Signature and false statements
Social security number request
National Security Agency/Central Security Service
Agency contact information
NSA POC
Phone 1-844-424-4737 Email intelcareers@nsa.gov Address NSA External Hiring
9800 Savage Road
Fort Meade, MD 20755
US
Visit our careers page
Learn more about what its like to work at National Security Agency/Central Security Service, what the agency does, and about the types of careers this agency offers.
Summary
Newly hired experienced Data Scientists will be assigned to a mission office by aligning their data science skills with mission needs. Due to the challenging and evolving nature of NSA data science problems, Data Scientists are expected to continue broadening and deepening their expertise throughout their career. For more information, please visit: https://apply.intelligencecareers.gov/job-description/1259937
Learn more about this agency
Overview
Help
Accepting applications
Posted yesterday · Apply by 07/20/26
Due by 11:59 p.m. ET on July 20, 2026
Location
Few vacancies in the following location:
Fort Meade, MD
No matching locations found.
Work site options
Telework eligible No Remote job No Relocation expenses reimbursed Yes-You may qualify for reimbursement of relocation expenses in accordance with agency policy. Salary $132,751 - $197,200 per year Pay scale & grade
GG 13 - 15
Promotion potential None
Learn more about pay scale and grade
Pay scale and grade determines the salary of the job.
Work schedule Full-time Travel Required Not required
Appointment type Permanent
Occupations and job series
Supervisory status No Federal service type This job is in the Excepted Service Represented by a union No
Drug test Yes Security clearance Sensitive Compartmented Information Position sensitivity and risk Critical-Sensitive (CS)/High Risk
Jobs require a background check and some require a security clearance. The type depends on the job.
Background check type
Financial disclosure required Yes
Some jobs require financial disclosure to identify conflicts of interests.
Announcement number 1259937 Control number 875461200
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