Mid-Level Data Scientist

Overview

Nakupuna Prime is looking for a Data Scientist to deliver evidence-based insights through advanced statistical analysis and predictive modeling to support student success and strategic enrollment initiatives. This is a mid-level role expected to deliver analyses and models with guidance from senior staff on approach and prioritization. This effort supports the United States Naval Community College (USNCC).

Responsibilities

The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign additional duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

• Design, train, and validate statistical and machine learning models to forecast student outcomes and identify students needing intervention.
• Conduct advanced analysis (e.g., cohort analysis, A/B testing, causal inference) to identify trends and correlations across student datasets.
• Identify and present actionable student success insights supported by rigorous statistical methods.
• Develop and document student risk classification logic (high/medium/at-risk) using composite scoring from grades, attendance, and LMS activity.
• Collaborate with Data Engineers and BI Developers to operationalize models into dashboards and recurring deliverables.
• Maintain clear model documentation for reproducibility, auditing, and governance.
  
  

Qualifications

Qualification/Skills:

• Proficiency in statistical analysis and applied modeling techniques to generate actionable insights.
• Hands-on ability to develop, validate, and maintain predictive models using Python and/or R.
• Strong SQL skills to extract, join, and validate data for analysis.
• Ability to communicate findings through clear narratives, visuals, and stakeholder-ready briefings.
• Experience documenting methodologies to support reproducibility and governance.
  
  

Education and Experience: This position requires a bachelor’s degree or higher in Data Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative field. The following are desirable levels of experience:

• 5 years of experience applying predictive modeling and machine learning to large datasets
• Proficiency in Python or R and SQL
• Experience with higher education or similar public-sector datasets is preferable
• Experience communicating analytical findings to non-technical stakeholders
  
  

Military Installation Access and Security Clearance: This position requires access to military installations. Must be able to qualify for and obtain base access and pass a background check. Must be a U.S. citizen.

Location: This position is hybrid. Work will be done on site at least three (3) days a week in Arlington, VA. Remote candidates will be considered. Occasional travel may be required.

Physical Requirements: The ideal candidate must at a minimum be able to meet the following physical requirements of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation:

• Ability to perform repetitive motions with the hands, wrists, and fingers.
• Ability to engage in and follow audible communications in emergency situations.
• Ability to sit for prolonged periods at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to walk for extended periods throughout the work day including moving between buildings and covering long distances by foot.