Job summary

The primary purpose of this position is to serve as a North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and the United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), Requirements, Analysis, and Resources Directorate (J8), Experimentation and Strategic Analysis (J84) Data Scientist. This is a developmental position with known promotion potential to the target position of 6X-NC1419, Data Scientist, GS-1560(13)-13.

Major duties

Performs a broad range of data analyses assignments entailing unique problems, creativity, innovative use of techniques, advance approaches, and/or new technology. Applies and researches analytic methodologies. Develops initial prototype analytics that employ statistical methodologies to fused data sources which are derived from end-user requirements that will range from interactive business and mission dashboards to the applications of advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning methods. Conducts research in the areas of analytical technologies and business processes to recommend methodologies to better leverage data analytics in support of NORAD and USNORTHCOM objectives. Prepares and delivers written and oral presentations such as briefings, training sessions, consultations, and strategy sessions with other staff services functions and activities to secure cooperation, resolve controversial matters, and convey information relative to proposed changes. Actively represents the organization at all levels within the government to include USNORTHCOM and its Components.

Qualification

In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Professional and Scientific Positions, Data Science Series 1560. BASIC REQUIREMENT: Degree: Mathematics, statistics, computer science, data science or field directly related to the position. The degree must be in a major field of study (at least at the baccalaureate level) that is appropriate for the position. NOTE: You must submit a copy of your transcripts with your application. OR COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Courses equivalent to a major field of study (30 semester hours) plus additional education or appropriate experience. NOTE: You must submit a copy of your transcripts with your application. In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below: SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE GS-1560-12: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-11, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes professional knowledge of a wide range of qualitative and quantitative methods for the assessment and improvement of command level organizational development and transformation program effectiveness, as well as the improvement of data analytics within the command. Knowledge of military command structures, missions, programs, and organizational relationships and program goals and objectives, the sequence and timing of key operational events and milestones, and methods of evaluating the effectiveness of planning actions as related to actual events. A comprehensive knowledge of the various command entities involved in overall planning and execution of operations and evaluations. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE GS-1560-13: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-12, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes mastery of a wide range of qualitative and quantitative methods for the assessment and improvement of command level organizational development and transformation program effectiveness, as well as the improvement of data analytics within the command. In-depth knowledge of military command structures, missions, programs, and organizational relationships and program goals and objectives, the sequence and timing of key operational events and milestones, and methods of evaluating the effectiveness of planning actions as related to actual events. A comprehensive knowledge of the various command entities involved in overall planning and execution of operations and evaluations. Ability to plan, organize, and develop complex studies or projects, make detailed recommendations on substantive organizational programs, and must be able to negotiate effectively with others to accept and implement recommendations, especially when proposals and recommendations involve substantial resources. FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in­-grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS-11 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-12 level. One year at the GS-12 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-13 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: GS-1560-12: 1. Knowledge of basic data science techniques and methods used to conceptualize, develop, adapt, modify, and apply new models to resolve difficult problems and to achieve support for alternative solutions within the commercial and government technical community; skill in performing data management activities. 2. Knowledge and skill in a broad range of DOD or private sector C4 systems, data, big data analytics, machine learning, AI, cognitive science, programs, operations, strategies, tactics, resource and information processes, force structure, and weapons systems and analytical capabilities. 3. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, to articulate/defend and recommend complex and/or sensitive issues to senior Data Scientists for implementation. 4. Skill to execute projects and/or studies within established financial and/or time constraints; analyze, plan, and adjust work priorities to meet program requirements and objectives within available resources. 5. Skill to perform data collection and analytic techniques in support of command requirements. 6. Ability to perform command staff officer tasks to include but not limited to plan, organize, and lead required staff and team meetings; generate meeting minutes, briefs, talking papers, white papers, background papers; and develop Course of Action (COA) recommendation. GS-1560-13: 1. Knowledge of data science techniques and methods used to conceptualize, develop, adapt, modify, and apply new models to resolve difficult problems and to achieve support for alternative solutions within the commercial and government technical community; skill in performing data management activities. 2. Knowledge and skill in a broad range of DOD or private sector C4 systems, data, big data analytics, machine learning, AI, cognitive science, programs, operations, strategies, tactics, resource and information processes, force structure, and weapons systems and analytical capabilities. 3. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, to articulate/defend and negotiate complex and/or sensitive issues with officials of diverse perspectives and often with different or opposing views. 4. Skill to lead teams composed of industry, government, and academic experts; originate new ideas, projects, and methodologies; and execute projects and/or studies within established financial and/or time constraints; analyze, plan, and adjust work priorities to meet program requirements and objectives within available resources. 5. Skill to perform data collection and analytic techniques in support of command requirements. 6. Ability to expertly perform command staff officer tasks to include but not limited to plan, organize, and lead required staff and team meetings; generate meeting minutes, briefs, talking papers, white papers, background papers; and develop Course of Action (COA) recommendation. PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week. VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Education

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: 1. YA002 = Eligible for situational telework only, including Ad hoc, Emergency, or OPM prescribed "Unscheduled" Telework. This eligibility is separate and distinct from the employee's eligibility. A civilian employee's telework arrangement may be terminated at the discretion of the supervisor or at the employee's request. 2. This position is cyber coded under the DoD Cyberspace Workforce Framework. IAW DoDM 8140.03 the incumbent is required to achieve both the foundational and resident qualification requirements outlined for each work role at the assigned proficiency levels. Foundational qualification within 9 months of assignment; resident qualification within 12 months of assignment. Employees may perform cyberspace workforce position duties while obtaining qualification requirements under the direct observation/supervision of an appropriately qualified individual, unless a waiver is granted per DoDM 8140.03 section 4.2. If such observation is not feasible and/or waived, individual must be reassigned to other duties consistent with applicable law. Employees who fail to achieve qualification or to obtain an approved waiver for cyberspace work role(s) within stated timelines will be removed from the duties associated with the work role. In addition, employee is required to engage in a minimum of 20 hours per year of Continuous Professional Development or education activities to maintain and enhance competence. IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcripts with the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience, transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation. FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.

Evaluations

Your application package (resume, supporting documents, and responses to the questionnaire) will be used to determine your eligibility, qualifications, and quality ranking for this position. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your rating or consideration for employment. BASIS OF RATING: Your application will be rated under the Cut Point procedures based on the extent to which the quality, depth, and complexity of your experience and education relate to the qualification requirements. Additional points are not added for Veteran's Preference; however, Veteran's Preference is considered where applicable. Best Qualified Group: Candidates in this category possess exceptional skills and experience to exceed well above the minimum requirements. Fully Qualified Group: Candidates in this category possess good skills and experience above the minimum requirements. Basically Qualified Group: Candidates in this category meet the minimum education and/or experience requirements. The resume/documents you submit must support your responses to the online questionnaire. If your application contradicts or does not support your questionnaire responses, you will receive a rating of "not qualified" or "insufficient information" and you will not receive further consideration for this job. Applicants who meet the requirements for and apply as a non-competitive eligible that meet minimal qualifications and other requirements of this position, will be given consideration as a non-competitive candidate and will be referred unless blocked by an individual with priority/preference. Noncompetitive applicants do not need to respond to the assessment questions with the A through E responses indicating level of experience/training. Applicants who disqualify themselves will not be evaluated further. APPRAISALS/AWARDS: Hiring Managers use objective methods and consider previous performance appraisals and awards in the selection process. Current Federal Civilian employees should list any relevant performance related rating and/or awards in your resume.