Senior Data Scientist

Summary

Join VetsEZ as a Senior Data Scientist and contribute to a high-impact initiative within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This role demands expertise in data architecture and integration, focusing on seamless data exchange between various VA systems like SDP, ILER, VBMS, and VA Profile. You will define data requirements, design and optimize data flows, and ensure data quality and compliance. Experience with VA systems and military personnel data is highly valued. The position involves collaboration with engineering teams, stakeholders, and junior team members, requiring strong communication and leadership skills. You will create comprehensive technical documentation and present project updates to leadership and VA stakeholders. This is a remote opportunity with competitive benefits.

Requirements

• Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred), or equivalent experience
• 10+ years experience in Data Science
• Proven experience in data integration, data modeling, and data pipeline development in a large enterprise or government setting
• Knowledge of architectural best practices, including understanding how to structure data flows and coordinate with downstream teams (e.g., ILER)
• Domain Experience: Familiarity with Summit Data Platform (SDP), VA Profile, and/or military personnel data
• Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills: Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex data issues, optimize performance, and implement robust validation routines
• Communication & Leadership: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into actionable plans for diverse audiences

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain interfaces between SDP and ILER to enable seamless data exchange
• Implement an interface between VBMS and VA Profile, ensuring reliable, secure, and accurate data transmission
• Lead initial SDP data architecture planning—determine which data is required, where it originates, and how it should be structured within the platform
• Organize data within SDP to meet project goals, quality standards, and VA compliance requirements
• Identify technical nuances affecting data pipelines and collaborate with the ILER team to integrate those requirements effectively
• Formulate and document requirements for transferring data from various sources into VA Profile, including mapping, transformations, and validations
• Collaborate with engineering teams to implement robust, scalable data pipelines and ensure all data flows meet performance and integrity targets
• Provide subject matter expertise on data architecture, integration patterns, and best practices, setting the stage for long-term solutions
• Work closely with stakeholders to develop strategies for data governance, metadata management, and compliance with VA and federal standards
• Offer guidance to junior team members and serve as a key advisor on project direction and priorities
• Produce comprehensive technical documentation, including data flow diagrams, architecture designs, and interface requirements
• Present project status, risk assessments, and recommended actions to internal leadership and VA stakeholders

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced Degrees: Master’s or Ph.D. in Data Science, Computer Science, or a related field
• Methodologies: Experience working in Agile or iterative development environments, including familiarity with sprint planning and backlog management
• Certifications: Relevant certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Data Analytics, Certified Data Management Professional) and/or government security clearances (e.g., Public Trust) are highly desirable
• Ability to obtain a government clearance
• Background using or integrating with VBMS or other VA systems is a plus

Benefits

• Medical/Dental/Vision
• 401k with Employer Match
• PTO + Federal Holidays
• Corporate Laptop
• Training opportunities
• Remote Opportunity