Data Scientist - AI/ML (DCO)
Columbia, MD

JOB DESCRIPTION
X8 is seeking a Senior Data Scientist - AI/ML to support Defensive Cyber Operations by applying statistics, machine learning, and advanced analytics to intelligence questions and mission data. The role develops reusable analytic products, identifies patterns and anomalies, and translates complex data into actionable insights for analysts and decision-makers.
This position also supports production model implementation and refinement, data curation and integration, model-performance monitoring, technical documentation, and research into emerging data science tradecraft and technology.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
• Apply statistical, machine-learning, and analytic approaches to intelligence questions and produce reusable products for Intelligence Analysts.
• Engineer and transform data features; identify hidden patterns and trends; build and optimize classifiers; develop automated anomaly detection; and automate analytic workflows.
• Evaluate statistical models, collaborate with software developers to implement validated models in production, and periodically re-evaluate and refine production models.
• Curate data from traditional and non-traditional sources by extracting, transforming, integrating, and loading data into accessible data stores.
• Collaborate with Data Scientists to develop processes and tools that monitor model performance and data accuracy.
• Work with analysts to interpret results, refine analysis, and communicate findings and ideas to decision-makers and other stakeholders.
• Document processes, models, and activities, including development and implementation of configuration-management plans for data sets.
• Research emerging data science tradecraft and technology.

WHAT REQUIRED SKILLS YOU'LL BRING
• Active TS/SCI with polygraph required for consideration.
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and 8 years of experience; an advanced degree may be considered in lieu of years of experience.
Master's degree in a relevant field and 4 years of experience.
• 3+ years of Defensive Cyber Operations experience.
• 3+ years of experience with machine-learning techniques and statistical model evaluation.
• Proficiency with R or Python and SQL to manipulate data and draw insights from large and small data sets.
• Exposure to AWS, Cisco/CCNA, STIGs/IAVA, and/or Big Data Platform (BDP).

WHAT DESIRED SKILLS YOU'LL BRING
• Strong Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS, RHEL), Windows, and virtual-environment skills.
• Independent problem-solving and engineering ability; experience with Python, Jupyter Notebooks, and network analysis tools.

MINIMUM CLEARANCE REQUIRED
• Active TS/SCI with polygraph is required.

COMPENSATION
• Starting Salary:$160,000.00+
• Bonus potential
• 401K Match - 10%
• Paid time off - 24 PTO Days, 13 Holidays
• Medical Benefits - 100% Employee, 80% Dependent, $1000 company paid HSA Contribution