RAND seeks Data Scientist Research Programmers to join the Research Programming Group (RPG). Our Programmers are a world-class resource for RAND’s researchers. As part of the RPG team, you will have the opportunity to interact with and learn from some of the best in the profession. 

Duties

• Work as a member of research teams to identify and answer important research questions
• Acquire a strong understanding of research topics and a thorough knowledge of the data and programming efforts involved
• Answer research questions by using appropriate data analytic techniques
• Manipulate and analyze complex, high-volume, high-dimensionality data from varying sources
• Communicate findings to technical and non-technical staff

Basic Qualifications

• Expert knowledge of multiple programming languages including Python and/or R
• Experience with machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data mining
• Experience working with distributed computing tools such as Spark or Hadoop
• Experience with cloud platform providers like Amazon Web Services or Microsoft Azure
• A strong passion for empirical research and for answering hard questions using quantitative methods
• A flexible analytic approach that allows for results at varying levels of precision
• Ability to communicate complex quantitative analysis in a clear, precise, and actionable manner
• The successful candidate will be a highly motivated self-starter with the ability to solve data analysis problems independently.

Education

BA/BS in Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Operations Research, Computer Science, Engineering, Economics, or related field required. MA/MS preferred.

Experience

2 years minimum related experience required, 3 or more years related experience preferred

Security Clearance

Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance is preferred.

Location

Santa Monica, Washington D.C., Pittsburgh, Boston

Equal Opportunity Employer: race/color/religion/sex/sexual orientation/gender identity/national origin/disability/vet