Data Scientist, Level 3
At a glance
Mid-level Data Science role at Independent Software. Annapolis Junction · full-time · no salary stated · we estimate $130,000–$190,000.
Independent Software has not published a salary for this role. The figure below is our estimate, not theirs.
dataroles summary, based on the employer's posting.
What you'll do
- Build and put AI and machine-learning solutions into use on large datasets, including autonomous agents
- Use reinforcement learning, language models, prompt design and retrieval-augmented generation in your solutions
- Tune algorithms and neural networks, then assess their performance, scale and efficiency
- Create agent-based workflows and reasoning systems, using Python and AI/ML frameworks
- Record technical decisions and findings, follow testing and version-control practices, and coordinate with mission teams
What you bring
- A relevant technical degree plus the required experience: eight years with a bachelor’s, six with a master’s, or four with a doctorate
- Alternatively, a high school credential and twelve relevant years, or an associate degree and ten relevant years
- Hands-on experience building and deploying AI/ML solutions, autonomous agents, and scalable machine-learning models
- Python proficiency, experience with large datasets and language models, and familiarity with prompt design, RAG and agentic systems
- An active TS/SCI clearance with the appropriate polygraph
Who this fits
This role suits someone who wants hands-on work developing and tuning AI/ML systems for mission needs. You must hold an active TS/SCI with the appropriate polygraph, and meet one of the listed education-and-experience combinations in a relevant technical discipline.
From the employer
What You Will Do:
As a Data Scientist Level 3 at Independent Software, you will apply advanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning techniques to analyze and assess large-scale datasets. You will design, implement, and deploy AI/ML solutions, including autonomous AI agents, to support complex mission requirements.
This role combines hands-on AI/ML development with model optimization, Large Language Models, and emerging agentic AI technologies.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, develop, and implement AI and Machine Learning solutions for large-scale datasets
- Develop and deploy autonomous AI agents
- Apply reinforcement learning techniques to AI/ML solutions
- Develop and optimize machine learning algorithms and neural network models
- Evaluate and improve model performance, scalability, and efficiency
- Develop solutions using Large Language Models (LLMs)
- Apply prompt engineering and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) techniques
- Develop agentic AI workflows and reasoning systems
- Use Python and AI/ML frameworks to develop scalable analytical solutions
- Apply software development best practices, including version control and testing
- Document technical approaches, model performance, and analytical findings
- Collaborate with technical and mission teams to support operational objectives
Required Skills and Qualifications:
- Strong experience with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Experience designing, implementing, and deploying AI/ML solutions
- Experience developing autonomous AI agents
- Strong foundation in machine learning algorithms and neural networks
- Experience with model optimization for scalable problem solving
- Proficiency with Python
- Experience with AI/ML libraries and frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, and/or LangChain
- Experience working with Large Language Models (LLMs)
- Experience with prompt engineering and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG)
- Experience with agentic AI and reasoning systems
- Experience working with large-scale datasets
- Understanding of software development best practices, version control, and testing
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Education and Experience:
Candidates must meet one of the following:
- Bachelor's degree plus eight (8) years of relevant experience; OR
- Master's degree plus six (6) years of relevant experience; OR
- Doctoral degree plus four (4) years of relevant experience; OR
- High school diploma or GED plus twelve (12) years of relevant experience; OR
- Associate's degree plus ten (10) years of relevant experience
Degree must be in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Systems, or a related technical discipline.
Clearance Requirement:
- Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role
Why Choose Independent Software:
At Independent Software, our people are the mission. We’ve built a company around collaboration, integrity, and innovation and we make sure our team has the tools and support to grow, succeed, and thrive.
When you join us, you will:
- Support critical national security missions that matter
- Be part of a close-knit, employee-first culture where your voice is heard
- Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development
- Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work-life balance
Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of something bigger.
Apply today.
We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
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