Data Scientist

DevTech Systems, Inc. (DevTech) is a global advisory firm specializing in evidence-based policy, data and information systems. For more than 40 years, DevTech has helped governments, international organizations and private businesses extract value from data and information in support of decision making. At DevTech, we are deeply committed to work that drives positive change. We value diverse perspectives and foster an inclusive environment where employees are empowered to work autonomously while receiving the professional support they need to learn, grow, and thrive.

DevTech seeks a Data Scientist to work as an institutional contractor on its Analytics, Data, Visualization, and Information Services 2.0 (ADVISE 2.0) contract with the United States Department of State.  The Data Scientist will work with the Foreign Assistance Oversight (FAO) Bureau’s Data and AI team in support of the Department of State foreign assistance activities. In particular, the Data Scientist will help stand-up a new pipeline for processing foreign assistance data within the Department of State; and will also be expected to help address quick turnaround requests for foreign assistance data reports and analysis from through State’s foreign assistance community.

We are seeking a resourceful data professional with a combination of capabilities in data engineering, data analysis and the use of automation and AI tools that can help improve efficiency and productivity in data pipelines and analysis. The ideal candidate combines technical expertise and strong analytical skills with intellectual curiosity and finds exciting the opportunity to use data to support Foreign Assistance.

Key Responsibilities
•    Design, develop, and maintain scalable data pipelines and ETL/ELT workflows to support foreign assistance data processing;
•    Build and optimize data models, schemas, and cloud-based data architectures to support data reporting, dashboards and advanced analytics;
•    Implement data quality, validation, and monitoring processes to ensure accuracy, reliability, and transparency;
•    Make use of automation and AI tools to improve efficiency and productivity;
•    Explore and analyze foreign assistance data upon request;
•    Support predictive analytics or light machine-learning workflows where appropriate;
•    Maintain documentation, metadata, and data governance standards in alignment with state department policies;
•    Communicate technical issues clearly to technical and non-technical audiences;
•    Demonstrate flexibility by taking on adjacent responsibilities as needed in a small, fast moving team environment to ensure project goals are met;
•    Engage in continuous learning about new data technologies and their potential application for clients at the Department of State.
•    In compliance with the Department of State and contractor policies and procedures, consistently model behaviors that demonstrate a commitment to fostering a non-hostile work environment free of discrimination, bias, unfairness, exclusion, offensive behaviors, and harassment of any kind.

Qualifications
•    Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Economics, Statistics, or a related field. Master’s degree or equivalent experience preferred;
•    Solid knowledge of Python and SQL;
•    Experience developing data models and building and managing data pipelines;
•    Experience working in cloud environments and platforms, particularly Azure and Databricks;
•    Experience with automation and AI tools and their judicious application for increasing efficiency and productivity;
•    Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and intellectual curiosity;
•    Ability to explain complex concepts to diverse stakeholders;
•    A team player but able to work independently;
•    Multi-tasking and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks;
•    Excellent interpersonal skills;

This position’s place of performance is Washington D.C. with the possibility of remote work, pending approval.

The applicant must have a U.S. citizenship to qualify for the required U.S. government security clearance for this project. (Dual nationality or additional citizenships will not disqualify applicants.)  

This position is funded for one year, with the possibility of continued funding for additional years.

NOTE: This job posting should not be construed to imply that the requirements are the exclusive standards of the position nor will it be the sole basis for any subsequent employee evaluations. Incumbents will follow any other instructions and perform any other related duties as may be required by their supervisor. 
 Candidates selected for initial consideration will be asked to complete a brief confirmation of continued interest before their application is reviewed.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or other status protected by applicable law.