Data Scientist
Don't Delay - Start Your Career Today with FHWA!
The Office of Research, Development, and Technology is hiring a Data Scientist (GS-1560-13/14 - from $121,785 to $187,093 annually) at the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center in McLean, Virginia. Apply today by visiting https://www.usajobs.gov/job/867253300 (open to U.S. Citizens, Nationals, or those who owe allegiance to the USA, as well as Career Transition: CTAP, ICTAP, or RPL Federal employees). This job announcement closes on 05/13/2026 (but submit your application as soon as possible to receive the best consideration).
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) provides stewardship over the construction, maintenance and preservation of the Nation's highways, bridges, and tunnels. FHWA also conducts research and provides technical assistance to state and local agencies to improve safety, mobility, and to encourage innovation.
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FHWA's Office of Research, Development, and Technology (RD&T) is at the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center (TFHRC). RD&T...
- Leads a nationally coordinated highway research and technology program to enable improved safety, durability, resilience, and operational performance of the Nation's highway system
- Champions the advancement of highway innovation in support of strategic goals and objectives
- Provides expert technical assistance on matters of national importance
TFHRC is a Federally owned and operated national research facility in McLean (Virginia). The center houses 15 laboratories, support facilities, and data sets. It conducts applied and exploratory advanced research in vehicle-highway interaction, and a host of other types of transportation research in:
- Safety
- Pavements
- Highway structures and bridges
- Human-centered systems
- Operations and intelligent transportation systems
- Materials
The laboratories at the center provide a vital resource for advancing the body of knowledge that has been created and developed by our researchers.
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As a Data Scientist, you will:
- Direct all phases of the data science and statistical analysis process, including problem definition, research design, and high-level data collection strategies. Plan and execute national studies and system designs to integrate advanced analytical methods and AI into highway research and vital business processes.
- Lead the research and development of new technologies related to: (1) advanced data science and analytics; (2) AI transportation applications; (3) AI assurance and data governance; (4) advanced simulation and modeling techniques; and (5) statistical modeling. Design original experimental frameworks for data collection and perform exceptionally difficult research to evaluate the statistical properties of complex sample designs.
- Serve as the principal expert on the application of data science and AI, providing authoritative technical support for the testing, evaluation, and post-deployment maintenance of AI in the transportation environment. Adapt and innovate mathematical methods for statistical processes and direct advanced simulation and modeling initiatives.
- Lead and direct strategic partnerships with senior leadership in external organizations, including State DOTs and academia, to establish a national research and technology agenda. Provide authoritative direction in the nationwide transfer of innovative AI and statistical methods, ensuring the integration of advanced data science advancements into critical highway practices and policy.
- Serve as a Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR), preparing detailed research prospectuses, monitoring contract performance, and reviewing deliverables for data science projects.
The ideal candidate brings deep expertise across advanced data science lifecycles, analytics, and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Additionally, the ideal candidate has a proven track record of researching and developing emerging technologies, leading cross-functional initiatives, and effectively engaging a nuanced group of stakeholders.
The ideal candidate demonstrates exceptional analytical and research capabilities, leveraging rigorous evaluation to solve complex challenges and drive organizational objectives.
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