Data Scientist - Applied AI & Federal Innovation (Public Trust Eligible)

Location: Hybrid - DC Metro Area (on-site as needed) Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust

🌎 The Mission

At Synectics, we don't build tech for show-we build it for mission. As a Data Scientist, you'll play a critical role in advancing a federal agency's enterprise AI and data strategy. You'll design and deploy machine learning solutions that enhance public service systems, strengthen data integrity, and push innovation forward in secure, scalable environments.

🛠️ Your Role

This is not an internal-only or back-end research role. You'll experiment with advanced AI models, collaborate cross-functionally with engineers and stakeholders, and help move prototypes to production with modern MLOps tools.

Your work will directly influence real-world applications-from LLM-driven workflows to public-impact data systems.

🔑 What You'll Do

• Build and deploy AI/ML models using LLMs, SLMs, AI agents, and intelligent agentic workflows
• Collaborate with data engineers, architects, and agency stakeholders to shape solutions
• Apply best practices for data quality, model training, fine-tuning, and optimization
• Develop NLP-based capabilities including summarization, information retrieval, and chatbots
• Track and report model performance using metrics like F1, ROUGE, recall@k, and t-SNE
• Implement MLOps techniques using AWS tools such as SageMaker and Bedrock
• Contribute to DevOps pipelines using Git and automated test practices
• Research emerging AI tools and approaches with the potential to enhance federal mission impact

📋 What You Bring

• 4+ years of experience as a Data Scientist (must include model development and deployment)
• Bachelor's degree in a quantitative field (Mathematics, Engineering, CS, etc.)
• Proficiency in Python and common AI/ML libraries (Langchain, Hugging Face, TensorFlow, PyTorch)
• Hands-on experience with LLMs, NLP, embedding models, and AI agents
• Understanding of MLOps best practices and experience using AWS-based tools
• Knowledge of AI performance metrics, data pipelines, and model evaluation
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional technical teams
• Familiarity with Git and unit/system test practices in a DevOps setting

⭐ Bonus Points For

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, Mathematics, or a related field
• Experience supporting federal programs or regulated environments
• Familiarity with ethical AI or model interpretability practices
• Experience participating in the planning of product or capability roadmaps

💼 Why Work with Synectics?

We believe that cleared professionals deserve more than interesting work-they deserve purpose. At Synectics, you'll join a mission-minded team that develops secure, high-impact tech for real-world government transformation. You'll gain exposure to the forefront of applied AI, work with collaborative and skilled colleagues, and be part of a company that actively supports your professional growth.

🎁 Perks & Benefits

• Hybrid work with onsite collaboration as needed
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage (HMO, POS, HSA options)
• 401(k) with employer match
• Company-paid life insurance and short/long-term disability
• Paid time off, paid leave, and federal holidays
• Referral bonus program and continued learning opportunities

🔒 Security Clearance Requirement

This position requires the ability to obtain and retain a Public Trust Clearance under federal guidelines.

Synectics is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer a competitive salary and an impressive complete benefits package. We also provide an environment that supports everyone's professional development and growth. We comply with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

📣 Know Someone Great?

This might not be your role-but if you know someone with a data science mind and a mission-driven heart, please share this with them.