Data Scientist

Data Scientist (U.S. Intelligence Community)

Location: Ft. Meade, MD

Workplace: On-site (hands-on access to high impact data systems needed)

Clearance Required: TS/SCI with Polygraph

Why Join Elder Research

• Mission-Driven Work: Support the U.S. Intelligence Community by building secure, scalable data systems that enable real-time insights.
• Career Stability: We hire for careers, not contracts—our work is growing
• People-Focused Culture: We value work-life balance, collaboration, and professional growth.
• Ownership Mindset: Every employee is a shareholder through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
• Competitive Pay & Benefits:
• Typical salary range: $117k-$196K, depending on experience and contract labor category
• 401(k) with employer contribution
• Health, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid parental leave and flexible PTO

Position Overview

We are seeking talented and motivated Data Scientists with expertise in machine learning, statistical analysis, and artificial intelligence to join our team. In these roles, you will be responsible for developing advanced algorithms and data-driven solutions that address complex challenges.

These positions will be part of our Defense and Intelligence Business unit serving the Intelligence Community as our primary customer.

Essential Functions

• Develop and implement machine learning, data mining, statistical, and graph-based algorithms to analyze large and complex datasets.
• Prototype and evaluate multiple algorithms, selecting the final model based on rigorous performance metrics.
• Design and execute experiments or create models to generate data when training datasets are unavailable.
• Generate reports and visualizations that provide actionable insights and summarize data findings for clients.
• Translate complex data analysis into clear, actionable recommendations.
• Collaborate with subject matter experts to automate manual data analysis processes and integrate analytics into production frameworks.
• Conduct assessments of clients' preparedness to integrate data analytics into their operations, including technical, cultural, and workforce aspects.
• Apply expert knowledge in data science to deliver solutions that address clients' business needs.
• Stay current with emerging tools and techniques in machine learning, statistical modeling, and data analytics to continuously improve the quality of your work.
• This role requires a self-driven individual capable of working under minimal supervision, with a strong ability to translate raw data into concise and actionable insights. You will work closely with clients, managers, and technical staff to understand business needs and deliver effective, data-driven solutions that enhance decision-making and operational effectiveness.

Requirements

• A current TS/SCI with Polygraph is required for this role.
• BA/BS in Math, Statistics, Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
• Proficiency with Python and R.
• Experience using large data sets to solve problems.
• Knowledge of and experience with machine learning, data wrangling, advanced statistical data analysis and modeling.
• AWS or Cloud experience.
• Ability to communicate complex models and concepts effectively in non-technical language.

Desired Qualifications

• Bachelors Degree with 4+ years of relevant experience.
• Masters Degree with 2+ years of relevant experience.
• PhD. with 1+ years of relevant experience.
• Familiarity with commercial and open-source data science software.
• Familiarity with relational databases: Oracle, SQL, and ETL tools.

Salary and Benefit Information

The likely salary range for this position is $117,000-$196,000. This is not, however, a guarantee of compensation or salary. Salary will be set based on experience, geographic location and contractual requirements, which could possibly fall outside of this range.

Elder Research values continuous learning, a supportive work environment, and a healthy work-life balance. We provide family health, dental, and vision benefits, employer-paid disability, paid-time off, and paid parental leave. We offer a 401(k) plan with employer contribution as well as an Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP). Our employees enjoy reasonable hours, solid pay, low travel, and extremely flexible time off.

About Elder Research, Inc

Elder Research is a fast growing consulting firm specializing in predictive analytics. Being in the data mining business almost 30 years, we pride ourselves in our ability to find creative, cutting edge solutions to real-world problems. We work hard to provide the best value to our clients and allow each person to contribute their ideas and put their skills to use immediately.

Our team members are passionate, curious, life-long learners. We value humility, servant-leadership, teamwork, and integrity. We seek to serve our clients and our teammates to the best of our abilities. In keeping with our entrepreneurial spirit, we want candidates who are self-motivated with an innate curiosity and strong team work.

Elder Research believes in continuous learning and community - for example, each week the entire company attends a "Tech Talk" and each office location provides lunch. Elder Research provides a supportive work environment with established parental, bereavement, and PTO policies. By prioritizing a healthy work-life balance - with reasonable hours, solid pay, low travel, and extremely flexible time off - Elder Research enables and encourages its employees to serve others and enjoy their lives.

Elder Research, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Elder Research is a Government contractor and many of our positions require US Citizenship.