Senior Data Scientist

Position Description
ERT seeks an innovative Senior Data Scientist to lead advanced data analytics initiatives for the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center. The Senior Data Scientist will develop, implement, and optimize data-driven solutions using remote sensing, geospatial data, and environmental datasets to support scientific research and decision-making. This role requires expertise in data science methodologies, machine learning, cloud computing, and geospatial analysis to address complex Earth observation challenges.

This role offers the opportunity to combine data science expertise with geospatial knowledge to advance the mission of the USGS EROS Center. If you are passionate about leveraging data to solve real-world environmental problems, we encourage you to apply! 

Responsibilities

• Data Analysis and Model Development:
  
  • Design, develop, and implement advanced statistical models, machine learning algorithms, and predictive analytics solutions using large geospatial and satellite datasets (e.g., Landsat, MODIS, Sentinel).
  • Use cloud-based platforms (e.g., AWS, Google Earth Engine) to optimize data processing, analysis, and delivery of insights.
  • Conduct exploratory data analysis (EDA) to extract trends and patterns from multi-temporal geospatial datasets and environmental data.
• Geospatial and Remote Sensing Analytics:
  
  • Apply state-of-the-art data science methods to extract insights from remote sensing data for land cover monitoring, environmental change detection, and disaster response.
  • Develop algorithms for automated feature extraction and classification from satellite imagery and spatial datasets.
  • Create reproducible data pipelines for large-scale processing of Earth observation datasets.
• Collaboration and Technical Support:
  
  • Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and technical staff to understand research needs and provide data science expertise for project goals.
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure integration of data products into applications and tools used by USGS stakeholders.
  • Provide technical support for data-driven projects and assist in troubleshooting data issues and optimizing workflows.
• Communication and Knowledge Sharing:
  
  • Present findings, reports, and recommendations to stakeholders through dashboards, data visualizations, and presentations.
  • Author research papers, reports, and documentation to communicate methodologies, outcomes, and insights.
  • Mentor and train junior data scientists, analysts, and technical staff.

Required Skills 

• 8+ years of experience in data science, machine learning, remote sensing, or geospatial analytics.
• Proven track record of working with large-scale geospatial and environmental datasets.
• Experience with satellite data products (e.g., Landsat, Sentinel, MODIS) and geospatial tools (e.g., GDAL, QGIS, ArcGIS).
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, or JavaScript, and familiarity with cloud computing platforms (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud, or Google Earth Engine).
• Strong background in statistical analysis, machine learning, and data modeling techniques.
• Hands-on experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Matplotlib, Plotly, Power BI).
• Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking skills with the ability to translate scientific needs into technical solutions.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex data concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

Must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident (green card) and be able to pass a background investigation to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance. 

Desired

• Experience working with federal agencies or research organizations.
• Familiarity with environmental science, climate data, or ecosystem modeling.
• Knowledge of deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) for geospatial applications.
• Experience with DevOps practices and containerization tools (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes) to streamline workflows.

Education
Master’s degree (Ph.D. preferred) in Data Science, Computer Science, Geospatial Science, Statistics, Environmental Science, or a related field.

Location
Work may be performed in Sioux Falls, SD or remotely from Greenbelt, MD. The position is eligible for a remote, onsite, or hybrid work schedule. Some domestic travel required.

Salary
The salary range for this role is $46,000 - $221,000/year. This range is a good faith estimate based on similar roles across the organization. ERT uses several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the position's scope and expected duties, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.  

Benefits
All full-time employees are eligible to participate in our flexible benefits package, which includes:

• Medical, Rx, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company-matching
• 11 Paid Federal Government Holidays
• Basic Life & Supplemental Life
• Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development & Learning Opportunities
• Skills Development & Certifications
• Professional Membership Reimbursement
• Employee Referral Program
• Competitive compensation plan
• Discretionary variable incentive bonuses based on factors such as individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance
• Publication and Conference Presentation Awards with bonuses

ERT is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer - All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.

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