Become a Chief Data Scientist at the USDA
Are you ready to influence the safety of the American food supply through the power of data? The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is currently recruiting for a high-impact Chief Data Scientist position within its Office of the Chief Information Officer. This is a unique opportunity to lead large-scale data strategy and advanced analytics for a federal agency dedicated to public health.
Job Responsibilities
As the Chief Data Scientist, you will serve as a key advisor on scientific issues and data policy. Your primary duties include:
- Directing the full data science lifecycle to support food safety initiatives.
- Architecting enterprise-grade data platforms and leading cloud modernization.
- Collaborating with international authorities to align data infrastructure with global standards.
- Bridging the gap between scientific policy and actionable data insights.
Comparison: Standard Data Roles vs. Federal Chief Data Scientist
| Feature | Standard Data Scientist | Federal Chief Data Scientist (FSIS) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Project-based | Agency-wide/Strategic |
| Influence | Technical Implementation | Regulatory Policy & Scientific Direction |
| Stakeholders | Internal Teams | International & Federal Authorities |
| Focus | Model Development | Ecosystem Architecture & Governance |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must be U.S. citizens and demonstrate mastery in advanced analytics, statistical modeling, and AI/ML. Because this is a high-level executive role, candidates must show they can handle sensitive, large-scale issues at the enterprise level.
Critical Application Constraint
Your resume must be strictly limited to two pages. Unlike many federal applications that require lengthy narrative statements for Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) or Technical Qualifications (TQs), this vacancy requires you to weave your TQ responses directly into your two-page resume.
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $151,661 to $228,000 per year, commensurate with experience. Federal employees also enjoy comprehensive health and retirement benefits, alongside the prestige of working for a premier mission-driven organization.
This position offers more than just a job; it is a chance to lead the integration of AI and data science into the heart of the federal government. If you are a seasoned leader with a passion for public health and technical innovation, we encourage you to apply by November 12, 2026.
Why This Chief Data Scientist Job Matters
Transform the future of food safety and public health data as the Chief Data Scientist for the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service.
Chief Data Scientist Job Overview
The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is seeking an elite, visionary Chief Data Scientist to join the Office of the Chief Information Officer. This pivotal leadership role drives the agency's data-centric mission, overseeing advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI initiatives that ensure the integrity of the American food supply. You will architect enterprise-wide data ecosystems and lead cloud modernization efforts, directly influencing regulatory and scientific decision-making at the highest levels of government.
Requirements for Chief Data Scientist
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Submit a resume limited to exactly two pages (0.8-inch margins, 11-point font).
- Demonstrated ability to apply advanced analytics, statistical modeling, and AI/ML at an executive level.
- Expertise in architecting enterprise data platforms and leading cloud modernization initiatives.
- Must meet eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement.
- Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security/suitability clearances.
Preferred Qualifications for Chief Data Scientist
- Proven experience at the GS-14/15 level or equivalent in the private sector.
- Strong background in scientific methodology applied to public health or regulatory environments.
- Leadership experience in large-scale data engineering ecosystems.
- Ability to liaison with internationally recognized authorities on data infrastructure policy.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary within the $151k–$228k range.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within the Department of Agriculture.
- ✓Telework eligibility for flexible scheduling.
- ✓Meaningful work directly impacting national public health and food safety.
💡 How to Apply Chief Data Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Chief Data Scientist Job
- Register for a verified account on the official federal hiring portal.
- Prepare a high-impact, two-page resume highlighting TQs and technical accomplishments.
- Complete the online application and occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including SF-50 forms if applicable, in supported formats.
- Submit your package prior to the November 12, 2026, deadline.
- Monitor your application status through your online dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; excess length results in automatic disqualification.
- Focus your resume on concrete examples of your technical leadership and impact rather than generic responsibilities.
- Do not submit separate narrative TQ documents unless requested; embed these details within your resume.
- Review your document uploads to ensure they are under 5MB and in compatible formats.
- Remove all sensitive PII such as SSN or birth dates from your application materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a specific narrative format for the Technical Qualifications (TQs)?
No. You should not submit separate TQ narratives. Instead, demonstrate your mastery of these technical areas directly within the content of your two-page resume.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
Any application containing a resume longer than two pages will be automatically removed from consideration without exception.
Is a security clearance required for this role?
This position is designated as High Risk and involves continuous vetting processes, though it is not traditionally classified under a specific security clearance level.
Job from Food Safety And Inspection Service
The Food Safety and Inspection Service is the public health agency in the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) responsible for ensuring that the nation's commercial supply of meat, poultry, and egg products is safe, wholesome, and correctly labeled and packaged. The agency relies on cutting-edge data to make informed regulatory decisions that protect millions of families every day.