Chief Data Scientist

We are seeking a Chief Data Scientist to provide technical leadership and strategic direction for a large‑scale digital, data, and artificial intelligence (AI) program supporting the DOW. This role is responsible for shaping, governing, and delivering advanced analytics and AI/ML capabilities that translate mission challenges into measurable operational advantage.

• Serves as the senior technical authority for data science, analytics, and AI/ML, setting strategy aligned with enterprise and Responsible AI policies.
• Establishes standards and best practices for analytics, modeling, experimentation, validation, and AI operationalization.
• Leads development of descriptive, diagnostic, predictive, and prescriptive analytics using structured and unstructured data.
• Directs AI/ML modeling and experimentation, including machine learning, Natural Language Processing (NLP), computer vision, Large Language Models (LLMs), and Retrieval‑Augmented Generation (RAG), with rigorous validation and performance measurement.
• Ensures analytics and AI solutions are explainable, actionable, and aligned with mission and end‑user decision needs.
• Works closely with engineering, product, cybersecurity, and Dev Sec Ops  teams to transition models into secure, accredited operational systems.
• Ensures compliance with data strategies, Responsible AI principles, security, privacy, and governance requirements, including RMF/ATO support.
• Acts as a trusted technical advisor to Government leadership and mission stakeholders, supporting reviews, demonstrations, and decision briefings.
• Partners with product managers to ensure analytics and AI solutions deliver measurable mission value and enterprise‑wide impact.
• Provides technical oversight, mentorship, and leadership to data science teams, fostering rigor, innovation, documentation, and long‑term sustainability.

• Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, or a related technical field (Master’s or PhD preferred).
• 10+ years of experience in data science, analytics, and 5 years of applied AI, including leadership of complex technical teams.
• Demonstrated experience designing and delivering advanced analytics and AI/ML solutions in operational or mission‑critical environments.
• Strong foundation in:
  • Statistical analysis and machine learning
  • Model evaluation and performance metrics
  • Data exploration, visualization, and storytelling
  • Experience working with large, complex, and disparate datasets in secure or regulated environments.
  • Familiarity with AI/ML development life cycles, including experimentation, validation, deployment, and monitoring.
  • Proven ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non‑technical senior leaders.

• PhD in Data Science, Computer Science, AI, Mathematics, Operations Research, or a related field.
• Prior experience supporting DOW, or Intelligence Community customers.
• Experience operating in multi‑enclave environments.

Minimum Salary: $190,000

Maximum Salary: $210,000

Maximus is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information and other legally protected characteristics.

This role is onsite, in Tampa, FL, and requires an active TS/SCI security clearance. Domestic and international travel may be required.

Maximus TCS (Technology and Consulting Services) Internal Job Profile Code: TCS
071, T5, Band 8