About this role
Job SummaryThis position is located in the Air Traffic Organization, Safety Service Unit, Policy & Performance Directorate (AJI-3). This Directorate collects safety data, tracks and monitors safety performance, analyzes risk for emerging trends, and evaluates emerging entrants, such as commercial space operations and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), for safe integration into the NAS.
QualificationsCandidates must have one year (52 weeks) of SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (FV-I or FG/GS- 13) that is typically related to the line of work of the position to be filled and which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position successfully. To be creditable, specialized experience must have been at least equivalent to the next lower level in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE is defined as: Experience in statistical modeling techniques such as regression analysis and time series modeling. Experience with supervised and unsupervised machine learning (ML) algorithms, ML model development, and evaluation. Experience using R or Python programming languages to evaluates model performance and selection. You should include relevant examples of the specialized experience in your work history. Errors or omissions may impact your rating or may result in you not being considered. Answer all questions to the best of your ability. DO NOT ASSUME THAT BECAUSE YOU HOLD, OR HAVE HELD THIS POSITION, YOU WILL AUTOMATICALLY BE FOUND ELIGIBLE. You may be asked to provide evidence or documentation that you have this type of experience later in the selection process. Your responses are subject to verification through job interviews, or any other information obtained during the application process. Any exaggeration of your experience or any attempt to conceal information can result in disqualification. * Applicants who fail to demonstrate possession of any of the above criteria AND who do not provide the required documentation will receive no further consideration for this position. * Applicants may be asked to verify information on your application for employment with the FAA. ** All qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of this vacancy announcement. ** Eligible applicants meeting the minimum qualification requirements and/or selective placement factor(s) (SPF) may be further evaluated on the Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSA) and/or Quality Ranking Factor (QRF) listed in the announcement. Based on this evaluation, applicants will be placed in one of the following categories: (1) score order; (2) category grouping; or (3) alphabetical, and referred to the selecting official for selection consideration.
Major DutiesThe Data Scientist applies experience and comprehensive technical knowledge of data science methods, algorithms, tools, and systems to extract and interpret findings from varied structured and unstructured data sets. Uses knowledge of computer science, mathematical and statistical theories, techniques and methods to gather, analyze, design and construct new processes for modeling, interpreting, and/or reporting quantitative information, trends, relationships and correlations among or within data sets. Performs multiple, varying and complex assignments under the minimal direction of a manager, project/program manager, team leader, or more experienced technical specialist. This work significantly impacts the National Airspace System (NAS) and the accomplishment of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) strategic objectives. Uses a combination of computational and machine learning methods to develop machine learning models. Evaluates model performance and selection through use of advanced programming languages such as R or Python. Extracts data without preset specifications. Develops computational algorithms and statistical methods to find patterns and relationships in large volumes of data. Uses statistical methods and machine learning techniques to perform statistical modeling, such as regression, classification, and anomaly detection to analyze various datasets from the aviation industry, which includes air navigation service providers, commercial air transportation service providers, general aviation, airports, and aviation support industries. This work requires skill working across functional/organizational lines to gather and evaluate data from across the ATO to compile, analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of organization based on data findings to improve operations. The Data Scientist organizes and interprets data to inform decision makers. Leads risk identification efforts and mitigation assessments. Uses knowledge of the aviation industry, public and private sector entities that operate within the NAS to analyze occurrence and event data, electronically gathered data (such as radar), and voluntarily reported information. Identifies risks in the NAS through the use of data sets, such as voice data, monitor data, incident/accident data, maps, etc. Combines, analyzes, and interprets large and/or complex data sets to develop data-driven organizational solutions. Develops computational algorithms and statistical methods to find patterns and relationships in large volumes of data. Applies skill conducting quantitative analysis of safety risk efforts to evaluate success in meeting established goals and objectives. Provides guidance and instructions pertaining to the potential benefits/uses of new automation to improve the efficiency of program operations. Contacts are internal and external to AJI and include representatives from other ATO Service Units, FAA Lines of Business, and members of the aviation industry. Works with safety groups within the ATO to identify and analyze safety issues and concerns. Coordinates with subject matter experts within the FAA and other Lines of Business on various issues related to the analysis of safety data. Often represents the FAA as senior technical point of contact for various statistical modeling and predictive analytics projects. Plays a lead role in preparing reports using machine learning, programming, and data visualization skills for final approval prior to external distribution. Presents briefings to obtain consensus/approval on policies. Communicates results to all levels internally and externally. Although broad policies and objectives provide general guidance for addressing issues, the Data Scientist is allowed considerable discretion to develop new and innovative approaches. Resolves all but unique technical problems without the intervention of management or a more experienced technical specialist.RequirementsWe are not accepting applications from noncitizens.