Bright Star Solutions provides specialized systems engineering support to federal agencies. Bright Star is a minority-owned, 8(a) small business consultancy based in the heart of Washington, DC.
Bright Star is recruiting a Data Scientist / Physical Scientist to support the U.S. Border Patrol’s Subterranean Portfolio, which uses advanced geophysical, geospatial, and electronic sensing technologies to detect and assess illicit tunnels and related subterranean threats along U.S. borders. This position combines technical analysis, operational support, and fieldwork, working at the intersection of sensor data science, advanced analytics, and mission operations.
The Data Scientist / Physical Scientist will support daily operations at a technical and operational reach back center and develop long-term data strategies for large-scale, multi-system sensor datasets. The role offers opportunities to participate in hands-on field deployments, advanced data analysis, and the integration of modern AI/ML techniques to enhance detection, interpretation, and operational decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
- Data Analysis & Interpretation: Analyze geophysical, geospatial, and electronic sensor data to identify patterns, detect anomalies, and support operational decisions.
- Technical Advisory: Provide expertise on remote detection methods, sensing technologies, and data interpretation techniques.
- Data Strategy & Management: Develop and execute strategies for data collection, processing, archiving, searching, and mining large multi-system datasets.
- AI/ML & Advanced Analytics: Apply statistical, machine learning, or AI-powered techniques to enhance data classification, pattern recognition, and system performance and efficiency.
- Field Operations: Support the planning, setup, and execution of field surveys in diverse and sometimes extreme environments; assist in deploying and calibrating sensors and systems.
- Modeling & Simulation: Conduct modeling, simulation, and scenario-based analysis to support operational planning and sensor optimization.
- Collaboration & Reporting: Collaborate closely with engineers, scientists, and operational staff; prepare clear and concise technical reports and presentations for both technical and non-technical audiences, including leadership.
- Continuous Improvement: Identify and implement improvements to data workflows, sensor deployment strategies, and analytical methodologies.
Required Qualifications
- Experience: 3-10 years in data science, physical sciences, engineering, or a related technical field.
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Geophysics, Physics, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. (An additional 10 years of directly relevant experience may substitute for a degree.)
- Experience working with large datasets and performing advanced data analysis.
- Proficiency with at least one analytical or scripting tool (e.g., Python, MATLAB, R) and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Familiarity with AI/ML concepts (e.g., classification, clustering, predictive modeling) and their application to sensor or geospatial data.
- Understanding of computer systems, electronics, and their use in field data collection.
- Willingness and ability to perform extended outdoor fieldwork (up to 2 weeks) in challenging environments, including extreme heat.
- Ability to wear and work with appropriate PPE (hand, eye, and hearing protection).
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
Additional Requirements
- Travel: Up to 50% (includes field deployments and site visits across U.S. locations).
- Office Locations (when not traveling): Hybrid: 2-3 days/week in Sterling, VA or downtown DC; 1 day/week in Tysons, VA.
- Security Clearance: Must pass and maintain a DHS U.S. Customs and Border Protection Background Investigation (BI).
- Citizenship: U.S. citizenship required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with geophysical survey methods (seismic, acoustic, or related sensing technologies).
- Knowledge of geospatial analysis tools (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS).
- Experience developing dashboards or visualizations for sensor data.
- Prior work in a law enforcement, defense, or homeland security environment.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $100,000.00 - $140,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Are you a U.S. citizen? Any answer other than ‘Yes,’ including no response, will result in disqualification.
Ability to Commute:
- Washington, DC 20004 (Preferred)
Ability to Relocate:
- Washington, DC 20004: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Washington, DC 20004
