Exploitation Scientist/Data Scientist

Exploitation Scientist / Data ScientistRiverside Research is seeking an experienced Exploitation Scientist / Data Scientist to lead the development, integration, and delivery of advanced GEOINT exploitation capabilities in Falls Church VA. This role combines deep expertise in sensor phenomenology, data science, analytical modeling, and exploitation tradecraft. The Senior Exploitation Scientist will guide multi-sensor workflows, design new analytic methods, mentor junior staff, and collaborate directly with government partners to enhance intelligence production for DoD and Intelligence Community missions.Responsibilities:Lead multi-sensor exploitation efforts across EO, IR, SAR, multispectral, and specialized collectionsDevelop advanced analytic algorithms and models for detection, classification, change analysis, and data fusionApply data science methodologies—including statistical modeling, machine learning, and automation—to improve exploitation accuracy and efficiencyPerform deep-dive image science analyses, sensor performance evaluations, and phenomenology-driven characterizationDesign and refine data workflows, ensuring reproducible processing, metadata consistency, and high-quality data governanceIntegrate ML/AI capabilities into exploitation pipelines, coordinating with engineering, R&D, and mission partnersPrepare and deliver technical briefings, analytical reports, and capability demonstrations to senior customersLead development of SOPs, analytic standards, and documentation for multi-mission exploitation operationsProvide direct mentorship to analysts, data scientists, and junior exploitation personnelCoordinate with collection managers, system developers, and intelligence stakeholders to optimize tasking strategies and analytical impactEnsure timely delivery of mission-critical GEOINT products supporting operational and strategic decision-makingOther duties as assignedQualifications:Bachelor's degree or higher in Data Science, Remote Sensing, Image Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, a related field, or equivalent experience7+ years of experience in GEOINT exploitation, analytic modeling, or advanced image scienceStrong proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or similar analytical languagesExperience developing machine?learning or statistical models for imagery exploitation or intelligence workflowsHands-on expertise with common exploitation tools (ENVI/IDL, ArcGIS, ERDAS, GDAL, or relevant sensor-specific toolsets)Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams and guide analytic developmentStrong understanding of DoD/IC data standards, mission priorities, and production workflowsActive TS or higher clearanceDesired Qualifications:Experience with multi-sensor fusion, hyperspectral analysis, or advanced phenomenology-driven modelingFamiliarity with cloud environments, data orchestration frameworks, or large-scale data architecturesExperience supporting R&D, prototype evaluation, or system integration effortsGEOINT-related certifications or recognized technical publicationsExcellent communication skills and ability to engage senior customersGlobal Comp: $000,000- $000,000 This represents the typical compensation range for this position based on experience, location and other factors.Closing Statement: Riverside Research Institute is a not-for-profit, technology-oriented defense company, where service to our customers and support of our staff is our overall mission. Riverside is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding recruitment and hiring. Riverside offers comprehensive compensation and benefit packages to our employees. Riverside bases its employment decisions solely on technical experience, qualifications and other job-related criteria related to our organizational purpose as a not-for-profit company, and without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, veteran's status or any other status legally protected by applicable federal, state, and local law.