DATA SCIENTIST
What you'd do
Protect your homeland and defend your culture. Join USCIS, America's frontline defense against illegal foreign infiltration and fraud. As an DATA SCIENTIST, you will gather and analyze facts, determine the accuracy of data, apply technical proficiency in using current software functionality, and research ways to improve production and/or increase the quality of the work product.
Major duties
The responsibilities described are for the full performance level. At developmental grade levels, assignments will be of more limited scope performed with less independence, and limited complexity. Lead the collection, validation, and prioritization of analytical datasets for data visualization products in coordination with IT resources. Critically assess and interpret complex datasets, scrutinizing data quality, validity, and reliability, and identifying inconsistencies or biases. Conduct complex algorithmic analysis, select and optimize algorithms, and report insights to senior leadership. Respond to data requests, perform data analysis using statistical software, and communicate findings to stakeholders. Develop, refine, and pilot innovative data visualizations (e.g., dashboards) with an emphasis on clarity, accuracy, and credibility of insights. Provide training and support teams in evidence-based decision-making and application of rigorous data validation techniques.
What you need to qualify
The qualifications for this position must be met by 11:59 PM (Eastern Time) on 08/14/2026. Time in Grade does not apply to Delegated Examining Announcements, any reference to Time in Grade in the questionnaire will not apply to the rating and ranking of applicants. This announcement is issued under the Direct Hire Authority to recruit for positions for which the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, has a critical hiring need. Application Limit: This vacancy is limited to the first 75 applications received. All applications received prior to midnight 11:59 PM (ET) of the day the application limit is reached will be accepted and considered. If the application limit is not reached by the closing date of the announcement, all applications received during the open period will be considered. Any required documents must be submitted at the time that you apply as documents will not be accepted past the day the application limit is reached, if applicable. If you choose to edit your application after it has been submitted, it will be removed from consideration until you re-submit your application. The date your application is last submitted will be used to determine whether you meet the cut-off criteria. Basic Requirements: All applicants must meet the following basic requirements: (Must be supported in Transcripts from an accredited institution, Resume and/or Applicable Certificate) Degree: Mathematics, statistics, computer science, data science or field directly related to the position. The degree must be in a major field of study (at least at the baccalaureate level) that is appropriate for the position. OR B. Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major field of study (30 semester hours) as shown in paragraph A above, plus additional education or appropriate experience. Selective Placement Factor: You must have experience working with programming languages such as: SQL, R, Python, SAS, SPSS or Stata to conduct statistical analyses, query or integrate data sets?. This experience must be documented in your resume. Failure to do so may result in an ineligible rating. GS-12: You qualify at the GS-12 level if you possess one (1) year of specialized experience, which is equivalent to at least the GS-11 level in the federal government, that equipped you with the skills needed to successfully perform the duties of the position. You must have experience performing the majority of the following duties: Applying data mining techniques to analyze datasets and extract actionable insights for decision-making; Implementing data models to support program objectives and improve operational efficiency; Communicating technical findings and data-driven recommendations to both technical and non-technical stakeholders; and, Utilizing programming languages (such as Python, R, or SQL) and data visualization tools (such as Tableau or Power BI) to manipulate, analyze, and present large volumes of structured and unstructured data. GS-13: You qualify at the GS-13 level if you possess one (1) year of specialized experience, which is equivalent to at least the GS-12 level in the federal government, that equipped you with the skills needed to successfully perform the duties of the position. You must have experience performing the majority of the following duties: Leading the design and implementation of statistical models, machine learning algorithms, or data mining solutions to address organizational challenges; Managing data science projects, coordinating team activities, and ensuring timely delivery of analytical products; Advising senior leadership and stakeholders on data-driven strategies, presenting complex technical findings in actionable terms; and, Developing and maintaining automated data pipelines or analytical tools using programming languages (such as Python, R, or SQL) and advanced data visualization platforms (such as Tableau or Power BI) to support large-scale data analysis and reporting. Please read the following important information to ensure you submit everything we need to consider your application: It is your responsibility to ensure that you submit your responses and appropriate documentation prior to 08/14/2026. You must upload your resume under the "Resume" category. Resumes submitted under the "Other Documents" category will not be considered. Your most recently submitted resume will be used to determine your qualifications for the position advertised in this announcement. Therefore, your resume must highlight your most relevant, significant experience related to the requirements found in the qualification section of this announcement, as well as any applicable education. Limit your resume to no more than two pages. The USAJOBS database will not allow an applicant to submit an application that includes a resume over two pages. To help ensure your resume remains clear and easy to read, we recommend using margins of at least 0.8 inches and a font size of at least 11 point. Be clear and specific when describing your work history since human resources cannot make assumptions regarding your experience. Your application will be rated and ranked based on your responses to the online questions. Please ensure EACH work history includes ALL of the following information: Job Title (include series and grade if Federal Job) Duties (be specific in describing your duties) Employer's name and address Supervisor name and phone number Start and end dates including month, day and year (e.g. June 18 2007 to April 05 2008) Start and end dates for each grade/pay level if you've held a federal position. Full-time or part-time status (include hours worked per week) Salary Determining length of General or Specialized Experience is dependent on the above information and failure to provide the above information may result in a finding of ineligible. Note: Overstating your qualifications and/or experience in your application materials or application questionnaire may result in your removal from consideration. Federal Experience: If you are using current or prior federal experience as a basis for qualifying for this position, the grade levels and length of employment (mm/dd/year) at each grade level must be listed in your work history. This information will be further validated if selected for this position. National Service Experience (i.e., volunteer experience): Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build criteria competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer service.
Before you apply
Federal applications are different: your resume should be 3–5 pages and mirror the language of this announcement. Read our federal resume guide first — it's the #1 reason qualified people get screened out.
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