Revolutionizing Defense: Data Scientist (AI Adoption Specialist) Opportunity
In an era where data is the new strategic frontier, the Office of the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer (OCDAO) of the Joint Staff is at the forefront of digital transformation. We are looking for a visionary Data Scientist (AI Adoption Specialist) to help architect the future of artificial intelligence within the Department of Defense. This role is not just about crunching numbers; it is about steering the strategic adoption of AI/ML technologies that maintain our nation's decision superiority.
Job Responsibilities
As a Data Scientist (AI Adoption Specialist) at the GS-13 level, your work will be diverse and impactful. You will:
- Design, model, and optimize enterprise-scale data management systems.
- Act as the technical Subject Matter Expert (SME) for high-stakes AI integration projects.
- Translate complex departmental policy into actionable AI governance and technical standards.
- Build bridges between technical teams, combatant commands, and senior leadership.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet specific federal qualification standards:
- Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level.
- Education: A degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, or Data Science.
- Clearance: Ability to hold a Top Secret security clearance.
- Drug Testing: Mandatory pre-employment and random drug screening.
Qualifications Comparison
| Criteria | Requirement Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's degree in a quantitative field or equivalent combo |
| Experience | 1 year at GS-12 equivalent (strategy/AI/governance) |
| Clearance | Top Secret required |
| Location | Pentagon, Arlington, VA |
Salary Overview
The salary for this position is set at the GS-13 grade level, ranging from $121,785 to $158,322 per year, depending on qualifications and location-based adjustments.
Benefits
Employees of the Joint Staff enjoy a competitive federal benefits package including health and life insurance, the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with employer matching, robust retirement pension options, and generous leave accrual rates.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Keep your resume strictly to two pages.
- PDF Only: Save documents as PDFs to maintain formatting.
- Act Fast: This position may close early once 75 applications are received.
- Detail Work: Clearly state hours worked per week on your resume for all previous positions.
If you are a seasoned Data Scientist looking to apply your expertise to the mission of national security, this is your opportunity to lead in the defense AI space. Ensure your application is meticulous and submitted promptly to be considered for this critical role.
Why This Data Scientist (Ai Adoption Specialist) Job Matters
Transform the future of national defense by spearheading AI integration at the heart of the Pentagon as a Data Scientist.
Data Scientist (Ai Adoption Specialist) Job Overview
The Office of the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer (OCDAO) within the Joint Staff is seeking a forward-thinking Data Scientist (AI Adoption Specialist) to lead the strategic implementation of artificial intelligence and machine learning initiatives. You will serve as a pivotal subject matter expert, driving enterprise digital modernization, developing intelligent data pipelines, and shaping the policy governance that guides AI deployment across the Department of Defense. This is a high-impact role requiring a blend of technical mastery, policy acumen, and the ability to bridge the gap between complex algorithms and senior-level decision-making.
Requirements for Data Scientist (Ai Adoption Specialist)
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level or equivalent.
- Degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Data Science, or a directly related field.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Completion of a pre-employment drug screening and ongoing random testing.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages.
- Provision of academic transcripts verifying educational qualifications.
Preferred Qualifications for Data Scientist (Ai Adoption Specialist)
- Proven track record in leading enterprise-level AI/ML strategy and solution development.
- Experience in designing and deploying LLM platforms within highly regulated environments.
- Expertise in creating technical governance standards for AI interoperability.
- Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to senior leadership through briefings and policy documents.
- Strong background in optimizing data systems for performance, scalability, and automated compliance.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Robust retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
- ✓Flexible work options, including telework eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Data Scientist (Ai Adoption Specialist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Data Scientist (Ai Adoption Specialist) Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Prepare a concise, two-page resume highlighting specialized experience and specific duties.
- Gather and upload official or unofficial transcripts.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided application link.
- Attach required supporting documents such as SF-50 (for current/former federal employees).
- Submit your complete package by the closing date or upon reaching the 75-applicant threshold.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must not exceed two pages; exceed the limit and your application will be rejected.
- Ensure your resume includes hours worked per week and exact dates of employment.
- Use standard, legible fonts like Arial or Calibri at 10-point size or larger.
- Save all documents as PDFs to preserve formatting.
- Submit early; this announcement may close once the first 75 applications are received.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance requirement for this position?
This role requires a Top Secret security clearance.
Is this position remote?
No, this is an in-person role located at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, though it is telework-eligible.
What happens if my resume is longer than two pages?
Per the specific instructions for this vacancy, any resume exceeding the two-page limit will be automatically excluded from consideration.
Is there promotion potential?
There is no stated promotion potential for this specific GS-13 announcement.
Can I use education to substitute for experience?
No, for this specific grade level, specialized professional experience is mandatory.
Job from Organization Of The Joint Chiefs Of Staff
The Joint Staff OCDAO serves as the primary advisory body to the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff regarding data, analytics, and AI. Tasked with accelerating digital modernization, our mission involves aligning people, processes, and technology to solve the most complex operational challenges facing the Joint Force today.