Data Scientist

Saalex is seeking a Data Scientist in China Lake, CA. Saalex is an Engineering and Information Technology Services company with a focus on Test Range Operations and Management, Engineering and Logistics Services, Data Analytics and Business Intelligence Services and Information Technology Services.

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $120k-$167k (depending upon experience)

Work Location: This is a remote position.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated Data Scientist to support mission-critical programs at China Lake. This role will focus on developing and deploying advanced analytical models, supporting test and evaluation efforts, and transforming complex datasets into actionable insights for engineering, operational, and leadership teams.

Essential Functions:

Data Analysis & Modeling

• Develop, implement, and maintain machine learning and statistical models to support mission and program objectives
• Analyze large structured and unstructured datasets to identify trends, anomalies, and actionable insights
• Apply predictive analytics, classification, and regression techniques to real-world operational problems

Technical Development

• Build and optimize data pipelines, ETL processes, and feature engineering workflows
• Develop data visualization dashboards and reporting tools to communicate findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Work with cloud or on-premise environments to deploy scalable data solutions

Mission & Program Support

• Support test, evaluation, and analysis efforts for aviation, weapons systems, or mission systems programs
• Provide data-driven recommendations to engineering teams, program managers, and government stakeholders
• Interface with cross-functional teams including systems engineers, software developers, and analysts

Collaboration & Documentation

• Collaborate across IPTs to translate mission requirements into analytical solutions
• Document methodologies, models, and results in accordance with DoD and program standards
• Present findings to stakeholders in a clear and concise manner

Reuquired:

• Experience:
• Experience supporting DoD, aerospace, or government programs strongly preferred
• Technical Skills:
• Advanced proficiency in Python (NumPy, Pandas, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch)
• Strong experience with SQL and relational databases
• Experience with data visualization tools (Power BI, Tableau, Matplotlib, Seaborn)
• Solid understanding of machine learning techniques (classification, regression, clustering, NLP, etc.)
• Data Engineering & Systems:
• Experience building data pipelines and ETL processes
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or similar) or on-prem DoD environments
• Understanding of data architecture and large-scale data processing
• Analytical Skills:
• Strong statistical analysis and modeling experience
• Ability to translate complex data into actionable insights
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills in ambiguous or evolving environments
• Collaboration & Communication:
• Ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams and IPT structures
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Experience briefing technical and non-technical stakeholders

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, or related technical field, or equivalent practical experience required.

Security Clearance:

Active Secret Clearance required. Requirements to obtain a clearance include US Citizenship, security investigation, etc. 

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Training & Development
• Wellness Resources
• Stock Option Plan