IT Specialist (Data Scientist) positions are being filled through the Office of Personnel Management's delegated Direct Hire Authority, open to all U.S. citizens. Selections made under this bulletin will be processed as new appointments to the civil service. Current civil service employees would, therefore, be given new appointments to the civil service. Under the provisions of the Direct Hire Authority, Veterans Preference and the "Rule of Many" do not apply.
Summary
IT Specialist (Data Scientist) positions are being filled through the Office of Personnel Management's delegated Direct Hire Authority, open to all U.S. citizens. Selections made under this bulletin will be processed as new appointments to the civil service. Current civil service employees would, therefore, be given new appointments to the civil service. Under the provisions of the Direct Hire Authority, Veterans Preference and the "Rule of Many" do not apply.
This announcement serves as public notice. Applications submitted be placed into a pool and will remain on file for selection as positions become available.
Vacancies may be filled for up to 6 months after the closing date of this announcement. Applicants may not receive notifications of referral status until the full 6-month eligibility period has elapsed.
Positions filled with applications from this pool will be placed into positions where artificial intelligence duties occupy the majority of the work performed.
Selective Service Registration, if applicable (www.sss.gov)
Fingerprinting and background and/or security investigation may be required
Job offers are contingent on fingerprinting and background / security investigation results
Selectees may be required to serve a 1 year probationary period
Relocation expenses will not be paid
All qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of the announcement
Candidates will not be hired based on their race, sex, color, religion, or national origin.
Qualifications
Resumes exceeding two pages in length will not be considered, please visit the new resume guidance for more information.
Duties:
Architect, develop, and maintain advanced analytics solutions using Python, R, and SQL on enterprise data platforms.
Design and implement machine learning models, including generative AI and agentic AI solutions, to support business objectives.
Clean, transform, and manage large datasets from diverse sources, ensuring data integrity and reliability.
Optimize SQL queries and database operations for efficient data access and processing.
Develop, fine-tune, and deploy AI models (such as generative and large language models) and agentic AI systems for automation, content generation, and decision support.
Visualize data and communicate findings through dashboards, reports, and presentations using tools such as matplotlib, ggplot2, and Power BI.
Collaborate with business analysts, IT professionals, and stakeholders to deliver innovative, data-driven solutions.
Prepare and maintain technical documentation, including data dictionaries, model specifications, and user guides.
Participate in code reviews and uphold best practices for quality, reproducibility, and security.
Support data validation, testing, deployment, and post-implementation activities in a fast-paced environment.
READ ALL SECTIONS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IN ITS ENTIRETY. THIS INFORMATION IS CRUCIAL TO SUBMITTING A SUCCESSFUL APPLICATION.
Applicants must qualify for the series and grade of the posted position.Experience must be IT related; the experience may be demonstrated by paid or unpaid experience and/or completion of specific, intensive training (for example, IT certification), as appropriate. Your resume must provide sufficient experience and/or education, knowledge, skills, abilities, and proficiency of any required competencies to perform the specific position for which you are applying.
To qualify for the 2210 IT Specialist series, the applicant must demonstrate the following competencies:
Attention to Detail - Is thorough when performing work and conscientious about attending to detail.
Customer Service - Works with clients and customers (that is, any individuals who use or receive the services or products that your work unit produces, including the general public, individuals who work in the agency, other agencies, or organizations outside the Government) to assess their needs, provide information or assistance, resolve their problems, or satisfy their expectations; know about available products and services; and is committed to providing quality products and services.
Oral Communication - Expresses information (for example, ideas or facts) to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information (for example, technical, sensitive, controversial); makes clear and convincing oral presentations; listens to others, attends to nonverbal cues, and responds appropriately.
Problem Solving - Identifies problems; determines accuracy and relevance of information; uses sound judgment to generate and evaluate alternatives, and to make recommendations.
Minimum Qualifications: Grade 14 To qualify at the GS-14 level, you must have at least 52 weeks of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-13 level or above, which is in or related to the work of the position to be filled, that has equipped the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. Such IT-related experience must include:
Leading or performing hands-on data analysis, modeling, and visualization using Python and/or R, or demonstrating a strong commitment to learning and advancing in this area.
Advanced proficiency in SQL for data extraction, transformation, and database management in large-scale enterprise environments.
Applying solid knowledge of statistical methods, machine learning algorithms, and data wrangling techniques to solve complex business problems.
Developing and deploying AI models, including generative and agentic AI systems (e.g., unsupervised learning, neural networks, GPT, diffusion models).
Utilizing frameworks and libraries for generative and agentic AI, such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, Hugging Face Transformers, LangChain, or similar.
Working with large-scale enterprise datasets and cloud-based data platforms to support data-driven decision making.
Creating and interpreting data visualizations using tools and libraries such as matplotlib, seaborn, ggplot2, and Tableau.
Demonstrating strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills in a collaborative, cross-functional team environment.
Communicating complex technical concepts clearly and effectively in both written and verbal formats to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Applying knowledge of the software development life cycle (SDLC), Agile methodologies, and version control systems (e.g., Git) to manage and deliver data science and AI projects.
Implementing or supporting data governance, privacy, and security best practices.
PLEASE NOTE: This specialized experience is REQUIRED and must be explicitly documented/described in your resume, or you will be disqualified from further consideration.
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
See announcement cutoff dates below under How to Apply.
Are you ready to drive data-powered innovation for America's digital future? The Social Security Administration's analytics team is seeking data scientists to join us in transforming vast datasets into actionable insights that shape services for over 330 million Americans. Whether you're a seasoned expert in Python, R, and SQL or an early-career professional eager to master advanced analytics, this is your opportunity to make a real impact on mission-critical programs.
Forget everything you think you know about data science-this isn't just about crunching numbers! Today's data scientists leverage cutting-edge tools, machine learning, and statistical modeling to solve complex business challenges and deliver high-value solutions. You'll work with some of the most robust, secure, and high-throughput data platforms in the industry, powering decisions that matter.
If you're ready to take your career to the next level-whether you're a proven expert or an ambitious learner-apply today and discover how powerful data science can be as you help us build the future of digital government services!
Recruitment incentive may be authorized.
Additional selections may be made for this vacancy six months from the closing date of this announcement. This Direct Hire announcement may be used to fill the same or similar position in another office.
This is a bargaining unit position represented by AFGE.
Selective Service: If you are a male applicant born after December 31, 1959, you must certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System, or are exempt from having to do so under the Selective Service Law. See www.sss.gov.
As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you may be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:
- your performance and conduct;
- the needs and interests of the agency;
- whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
- whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.
Upon completion of your probationary period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
The evaluation you receive is based on your responses to the online assessment questions completed during the application process.
Please make sure you answer all questions and follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your evaluation.
Information not specifically stated in your resume cannot be assumed. Information that is copied or restated language from the vacancy announcement or rating criteria will not be considered. If this occurs, you may be found ineligible.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
You must also submit ALL supporting documentation by the closing date of the vacancy announcement to claim certain types of preference.
Resumes exceeding two pages will not be considered. To be considered, your resume must:
Clearly demonstrate your qualifications for the position
Include your contact information
We recommend using a clear, easy-to-read format and focusing on information most relevant to the job announcement
You must also submit ALL supporting documentation by the closing date of the vacancy announcement to claim certain types of preference.
INTERAGENCY CAREER TRANSITION ASSISTANCE PLAN (ICTAP): ICTAP provides eligible displaced Federal competitive service employees with selection priority for competitive service vacancies. To receive selection priority, candidates must meet the requirements for the Well Qualified. Well-qualified is defined as having knowledge, skills, and abilities that clearly exceed the minimum qualification requirements for the position. Candidates must also provide:
proof of eligibility with your application. Such proof may include a copy of your written notification of ICTAP eligibility or a copy of your separation Notice of Personnel Action, (SF-50); and
proof of your most recent performance rating of at least "fully successful" (Level III) or equivalent.
Veteran's preference does not apply under this Direct Hire Authority for these positions.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Please read the entire announcement and all the instructions before you begin an application. To apply for this position, you must complete the initial online application, to include submission of the required documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on the cutoff date of the announcement closing date to receive consideration. The application process is as follows:
To begin the application process, click the Apply Online button.
Answer the questions presented in the application and attach all necessary supporting documentation.
Click the Submit Application button prior to 11:59PM (ET) on the cut-off date or announcement closing date.
You may update your application, including supporting documentation, at any time during the announcement open period by returning to your USAJOBS account. There you will find a record of your application, the application status, and an option to Update Application. This option will no longer be available once the announcement has closed.
To verify the status of your application both during and after the announcement open period, log into your USAJOBS account. All of your applications will appear on the Welcome page. The application record in your USAJOBS account provides an Additional Application Information page that provides information regarding the documentation you submitted and any correspondence we have sent related to this application. The Application Status will appear along with the date your application was last updated. For information on what each Application Status means, visit https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/application/status/.
If you use assistive software or an adaptive device, or you are experiencing some other type of technical difficulty and/or otherwise require assistance with the application process, please contact Careers at SSA at Careers@ssa.gov.
Individuals with disabilities may also call us via Federal Relay using the (voice) contact telephone provided.
Due to our security procedures, our office will not accept any applications submitted via email or standard mail. The email address is listed only for inquiries about the position or the How to Apply process.
OCIO Front Office
6401 Security Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21235
US
Next steps
Once you have successfully submitted your application materials, you can expect to receive an email notification acknowledging receipt of your application.
The hiring office will contact candidates directly for interviews, if desired. Interviews may be conducted via video conferencing software, if technically feasible.
To check the status of your application or return to a previous or incomplete application, log in to your USAJOBS account, select Application Status, and click on the more information link under the application status for this position.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
You must also submit ALL supporting documentation by the closing date of the vacancy announcement to claim certain types of preference.
Resumes exceeding two pages will not be considered. To be considered, your resume must:
Clearly demonstrate your qualifications for the position
Include your contact information
We recommend using a clear, easy-to-read format and focusing on information most relevant to the job announcement
You must also submit ALL supporting documentation by the closing date of the vacancy announcement to claim certain types of preference.
INTERAGENCY CAREER TRANSITION ASSISTANCE PLAN (ICTAP): ICTAP provides eligible displaced Federal competitive service employees with selection priority for competitive service vacancies. To receive selection priority, candidates must meet the requirements for the Well Qualified. Well-qualified is defined as having knowledge, skills, and abilities that clearly exceed the minimum qualification requirements for the position. Candidates must also provide:
proof of eligibility with your application. Such proof may include a copy of your written notification of ICTAP eligibility or a copy of your separation Notice of Personnel Action, (SF-50); and
proof of your most recent performance rating of at least "fully successful" (Level III) or equivalent.
Veteran's preference does not apply under this Direct Hire Authority for these positions.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Please read the entire announcement and all the instructions before you begin an application. To apply for this position, you must complete the initial online application, to include submission of the required documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on the cutoff date of the announcement closing date to receive consideration. The application process is as follows:
To begin the application process, click the Apply Online button.
Answer the questions presented in the application and attach all necessary supporting documentation.
Click the Submit Application button prior to 11:59PM (ET) on the cut-off date or announcement closing date.
You may update your application, including supporting documentation, at any time during the announcement open period by returning to your USAJOBS account. There you will find a record of your application, the application status, and an option to Update Application. This option will no longer be available once the announcement has closed.
To verify the status of your application both during and after the announcement open period, log into your USAJOBS account. All of your applications will appear on the Welcome page. The application record in your USAJOBS account provides an Additional Application Information page that provides information regarding the documentation you submitted and any correspondence we have sent related to this application. The Application Status will appear along with the date your application was last updated. For information on what each Application Status means, visit https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/application/status/.
If you use assistive software or an adaptive device, or you are experiencing some other type of technical difficulty and/or otherwise require assistance with the application process, please contact Careers at SSA at Careers@ssa.gov.
Individuals with disabilities may also call us via Federal Relay using the (voice) contact telephone provided.
Due to our security procedures, our office will not accept any applications submitted via email or standard mail. The email address is listed only for inquiries about the position or the How to Apply process.
OCIO Front Office
6401 Security Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21235
US
Next steps
Once you have successfully submitted your application materials, you can expect to receive an email notification acknowledging receipt of your application.
The hiring office will contact candidates directly for interviews, if desired. Interviews may be conducted via video conferencing software, if technically feasible.
To check the status of your application or return to a previous or incomplete application, log in to your USAJOBS account, select Application Status, and click on the more information link under the application status for this position.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
