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Posted: January 30, 2026 (9 days ago)

Added to FreshGovJobs: February 7, 2026 (0 days ago)

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DATA SCIENTIST - DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY

Department of the Air Force - Agency Wide

Department of the Air Force

Recent

Location

Salary

$89,508 - $138,370

per year

Closes

February 13, 2026More Air Force jobs →

Job Description

Summary

This job involves using advanced data techniques to solve complex problems for the Air Force, such as building models, analyzing data, and creating AI-driven insights to improve operations and decision-making.

It focuses on developing innovative tools for things like workforce trends and process improvements.

A good fit would be someone with strong math and tech skills who enjoys teamwork and explaining complex ideas simply to leaders.

Key Requirements

  • Professional knowledge of quantitative methods for developing and applying models to tough problems
  • Broad understanding of defense systems, analytics, machine learning, AI, and operations research
  • Advanced skills in statistical analysis, feature engineering, and creating custom data models and algorithms
  • Ability to work in expert teams, generate new ideas, and manage projects under time and budget limits
  • Skill in data collection, building models and simulations, and applying descriptive, predictive, or prescriptive AI solutions
  • Strong oral and written communication to explain insights and negotiate issues effectively

Full Job Description

The Air Force offers qualified applicants opportunities to be hired for certain occupations covered by Direct Hire Authorities (DHA).

The use of DHA is a fast-track method of hiring applicants from the public with no prior federal status using a non-traditional method of recruitment.

To find additional information on "What Is DHA" and to view and/or apply to current DHA opportunities listed on Air Force Civilian Service's "Direct Hire Job Board", please click here.

For additional information on direct hire opportunities with the Air Force please click here.

Experience requirements are described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Administrative and Management Positions: KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: 1.

Professional knowledge of quantitative techniques and methods used to conceptualize, develop, adapt, modify, and apply new models to resolve the most difficult problems and to achieve support and for alternative solutions within the scientific community.

2.

Knowledge of a broad range of defense department or private sector systems, analytics, machine learning, AI, cognitive science, programs, operations, strategies, tactics, resource and information processes, force structure, and weapons systems.

Includes operations research analysis techniques and mastery of scientific and analytical capabilities. 3.

Advanced skills in statistical analysis in order to understand the significance of different data set attributes, perform feature engineering, and develop custom data models and algorithms. 4.

Skill in working in advanced study teams composed of industry, government, and academic experts; originate new ideas, projects, and methodologies; and execute projects and/or studies within established financial and/or time constraints.

4. Ability to analyze, interpret, and apply operations research rules and procedures in a variety of situations and recommend solutions to senior analysts. 5.

Skill to develop and utilize appropriate data collection techniques and design, build and use models and simulation techniques.

Ability to research, develop, or apply descriptive, diagnostic, predictive and/or prescriptive models to identify the best AI solution design. 6.

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; negotiate complex and/or sensitive issues; and maintain good working relations. Major Duties:

  • Provides guidance and direction in planning, designing, developing, and implementing novel, state-of-the-art data science applications, models, technologies, and guiding principles.
  • Conducts regression analysis, statistical analysis, modeling, machine learning, data engineering, mathematical programming, Natural Language Processing, and auto coding.
  • Conducts analysis to identify additional metrics for understanding the workforce and to identify marker that precede leading or lagging trends.
  • Enables process improvement through identification of probable causes, supports remedy identification through data-driven insights, and identifies metrics for tracking remedy effectiveness.
  • Prepares presentations and written reports, builds data visualization products, and communicates technical results and actionable insights to decision-makers with varying levels of analytic sophistication.

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Posted on USAJOBS: 1/30/2026 | Added to FreshGovJobs: 2/7/2026

Source: USAJOBS | ID: AFMC-9V-NH1506-KMC-FLYER