Data Scientist

The Digital Strategic Development unit is seeking a highly motivated Data Scientist to join the Digital Strategic Development team. This team is responsible for leading the development and deployment of innovative solutions for existing and future instrumentation and control (I&C) systems on US Navy aircraft carriers and submarines. Specific areas of interest include incorporating artificial intelligence and machine learning, model-based engineering, and automation into existing processes.

The successful candidate will work with multi-disciplined teams to:

• Partner with stakeholders to identify, scope, prioritize, and implement high-impact use cases for artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning tools to accelerate and improve development of I&C systems.
• Collaborate on processes, guidelines, and polices for safe and effective use of LLMs in safety-critical hardware and software developments.
• Analyze data sets to generate actionable insights for improving tools, processes, and systems.
• Integrate AI/ML models into software applications and processes
• Consult on AI/ML use case best practices and future needs
• Prepare justifications, specifications, and plans to support project execution, including procurement activities
• Develop and apply new analysis methods, technologies, and/or concepts
• Provide technical leadership and assume the coordination responsibilities for assigned technical projects or programs
• Provide leadership as a recognized data science expert in technical program areas and on standing technical committees

Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in a related engineering or science field and a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience; or Masters degree from an accredited college or university in a related engineering or science field and a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience; or Doctorate degree from an accredited college or university in a related engineering or science field.

Preferred Skills

• Programming experience in Python and/or C++
• Experience developing on-premises, including experience with container building and orchestration using Docker/Kubernetes/OpenShift
• Experience with agentic LLM frameworks and MCP servers for integrating AI agents.
• Experience applying AI/ML capabilities to improve existing processes, weighing potential risks and mitigations
• Experience building or maintaining CI/CD pipelines
• Experience using, deploying, and maintaining large language models and other AI applications
• Experience developing user interfaces for applications
• Working knowledge of DevSecOps principles
• Working knowledge of cybersecurity principles, with a preference to applying cybersecurity to AI/ML
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Demonstrated cross organizational leadership experience
• Experience with technical writing

• Health, Dental, Vision & Voluntary Benefits
• Disability, Life & Accident Insurance
• 401(k) Savings program & Capital Accumulation Plan
• Personal & Medical Time Off
• Paid Parental Leave
• Flexible Work Schedules
• Tuition Assistance for Eligible Employees
• Student Debt Benefit Personal Time Off Sell Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Wellness Program
• Visit us online to view all NNL benefits!

Pay Range

$95,700.00 - $149,600.00 annually Salary information provided is a general guideline only. Annual salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is operated for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) by Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC (FMP), a wholly owned subsidiary of Fluor Corporation. Naval Nuclear Laboratory personnel are FMP employees who work at four DOE facilities: Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory, Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory, Kenneth A. Kesselring Site, and Naval Reactors Facility, and at the U.S. Department of Defense-owned Nuclear Power Training Unit-Charleston. FMP employees also have an established presence at numerous shipyards and vendor locations. For nearly 70 years, the Naval Nuclear Laboratory has developed advanced nuclear propulsion technology, provided technical support, and trained world-class nuclear operators to ensure the safe and reliable operation of our nation’s submarine and aircraft carrier Fleets. The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is a national asset solely dedicated to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. We rely on the dedication and innovation of our nearly 8000 engineers, scientists, technicians, and support personnel.

All candidates must be U.S. citizens. Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. FMP is a government contractor and maintains a drug free workplace and workforce. All candidates must be able to pass a drug test in compliance with FMP company policy and 10 CFR 707. Marijuana is a Federal Schedule I controlled substance and illegal under Federal Law. Therefore, FMP is required to test for marijuana.

Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company promotes a positive culture while ensuring the safety and reliability of our nation’s naval nuclear reactors, and training the Sailors who operate those reactors in the U.S. Navy’s submarines and aircraft carrier Fleets. Looking for a lifetime career? Apply today!