Duties
As a Data Scientist, the incumbent writes and maintains high-performance code using Python, R, M Language and DAX, and other modern programming languages and tools to support OAWP's advanced analytics requirements. Collaborates with specialists in machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), natural language processing (NLP), and artificial intelligence (AI) to construct product solutions and enhance the data engineering process, focusing on data wrangling, extraction, integration, analysis, and visualization. Designs, implements, and optimizes ML, DL, NLP, and AI algorithms to power product solutions and generate analytics reports. Defines, develops, and employs concepts, theories, and methodologies to address complex and undefined analytics problems. Conducts research, drafts project designs, objectives, and analysis questions; employs data collection and measurement strategies (qualitative and quantitative analysis) and applies rigorous approaches for testing compliance.
Provides input to the development of long-term organizational improvement goals, vision, objectives, and guiding principles. Develops and maintains digital solutions for data analyses, including both structured and unstructured data. Participates in the design, analysis, and deployment of advanced analytics solutions, ensuring data integrity, quality, and timeliness. Customizes technical reporting solutions to ensure precise analytical results for legislative, policy, and programmatic decisions. Independently supports CARD in recording, tracking, and confirming the implementation of recommendations from OIG, OMI, OSC and GAO as codified in 38 U.S.C. § 323(c)(1)(F). Ensures compliance with OAWP's statutory requirements under 38 U.S.C. 323(c)(1)(G), 323(f)(B)(i), and 323(f)(B)(ii). Analyzes data from the OAWP and the OIG telephone hotlines, other whistleblower disclosures and relevant audits and investigations, disaggregated by facility and/or area of VA services if appropriate; identifies trends; and writes reports to the Secretary of VA as codified in 38 U.S.C. § 323(c)(1)(G).
Identifies trends and maintains a database of national trends, relevant research and evaluation projects, and findings resulting from oversight entity reports under 38 U.S.C. § 323(c)(1)(G). Collaborates with COD's Special Reviews Division (SRD) to gather and prepare reports from diverse data sources. Interprets findings resulting from studies that are independently developed. Participates in competing analyses of data and identifies significant findings. Provides expert quantitative/qualitative analysis in compliance. Constructs and manages data pipelines, performing qualitative and quantitative analysis to provide descriptive, prescriptive, and predictive insights on accountability data. Documents the research process, findings, and implications; drafts sections of or entire reports; prepares written analysis and case summaries when appropriate. Prepares reports and briefings for agency and Departmental decisionmakers, making complex evaluation and statistical data comprehensible for nontechnical audiences.
Facilitates collaborations with internal and external stakeholders to define problems and develop implementation plans for advanced analytics capabilities. Advises management of unique conditions and issues which affect Department activities and provides guidance on the interpretation and implementation of new and revised legislation, policies, regulations and procedures. Provides input into the strategic direction and ensures the effective execution of OAWP and CARD requirements. Communicates findings and recommendations to OAWP leadership and engages in high-level discussions and decision-making processes. Visualizes data using modern tools such as Power BI and Python libraries, and custom visualizations using Python libraries such as Matplotlib and Seaborn to support findings and create compelling reports; and briefs VA leadership on insights.
Maintains competencies and training in data analytics, research/evaluation, and qualitative and quantitative measurement methods. Continuously fosters professional growth and proficiency in data analytics, research/evaluation, and advanced measurement methods. Documents research methodologies, processes, findings, and implications for future reference and organizational learning. Assists in tracking the implementation of whistleblower settlement agreements.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Work Schedule: Required to work Monday through Friday with various tours available pending supervisory approval. May be subjected to change based on operational needs
Compressed/Flexible: May be authorized by supervisor
Remote: Not authorized for Remote work.
Telework: May be authorized at the agency's discretion.
Virtual: This position may be authorized for Virtual work at a VA leased/owned space.
Position Description/PD#: 000060
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
- You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job
- Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959
- You may be required to serve a probationary period
- Subject to background/security investigation
- Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process
- Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents).
- Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment.
- This position may be filled at the facility where the position is located (VA Central Office, Washington, DC) or in person - telework authorized (e.g., the employee may work at a VA facility or other VA-leased space other than the facility that is hiring the employee)
Qualifications
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 08/04/2025.
Time-In-Grade Requirement: Applicants who are current Federal employees and have held a GS grade any time in the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements by the closing date of this announcement. For a GS-14 position you must have served 52 weeks at the GS-13. The grade may have been in any occupation, but must have been held in the Federal service. An SF-50 that shows your time-in-grade eligibility must be submitted with your application materials. If the most recent SF-50 has an effective date within the past year, it may not clearly demonstrate you possess one-year time-in-grade, as required by the announcement. In this instance, you must provide an additional SF-50 that clearly demonstrates one-year time-in-grade.
Note: Time-In-Grade requirements also apply to former Federal employees applying for reinstatement as well as current employees applying for Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998 (VEOA) appointment.
See the Required Document section below for more information regarding the SF-50s needed to verify time-in-grade.
You may qualify based on your experience as described below:
- Specialized Experience: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade GS-13 in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. Examples of specialized experience would typically include, but are not limited to: : performing proficient statistical analysis and programming in languages such as Python, R, SQL, or JavaScript to support data analysis and maintenance; demonstrating familiarity and intermediate knowledge of machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), natural language processing (NLP), and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms; possessing solid skills in developing digital solutions for both structured and unstructured data analysis, employing intermediate statistical methods and visualization tools like Power BI or Python libraries; having effective communication skills for drafting and presenting data analysis to stakeholders; demonstrating practical experience with data integration and analytics tools such as Microsoft Dynamics 365, Azure Synapse, Azure Data Lake, Azure Machine Learning, or Azure Cognitive Services; applying project management approaches like Agile methodologies; and being capable of performing data analysis, constructing data pipelines, and handling data extraction and transformation tasks to support organizational goals. Evidence of this specialized experience must be supported by detailed documentation of like duties performed in positions held on your resume. You will also need to provide work experience information such as hours per week, salary, and starting/ending dates of employment (month and year format) to establish you have one (1) full year of specialized experience at the required grade level).
- The Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP) and Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) provide eligible displaced Federal/VA competitive service employees with selection priority over other candidates for competitive service vacancies. To be qualified you must submit appropriate documentation (a copy of the agency notice, your most recent performance rating, and your most recent SF-50 noting current position, grade level, and duty location) and be found well-qualified for this vacancy. To be found well-qualified, applicants must meet the following qualifications: A well-qualified candidate provides expert-level statistical analysis with proficient use of programming languages such as Python, R, M Language, DAX, JavaScript, and SQL to support predictive analytics, data visualization, data mining, analytics architecture, and infrastructure maintenance; designing and implementing advanced machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), natural language processing (NLP), and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to enhance data engineering and analysis processes; developing comprehensive digital solutions for both structured and unstructured data analysis, employing advanced statistical methods and using sophisticated visualization tools such as Power BI and Python libraries (Matplotlib, Seaborn) to create compelling visual analytics and reports; demonstrating exceptional communication skills by drafting and presenting complex data analysis and insights to high-level decision-makers and facilitating collaborations with internal and external stakeholders; extensive experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365, Azure Synapse, Azure Data Lake, Azure Machine Learning, and Azure Cognitive Services for building applications, data integration, and analytics solutions; applying Agile methodologies for effective project execution, including developing and managing project plans and timelines while ensuring data integrity and quality compliance; and managing and performing advanced data analysis, constructing and maintaining robust data pipelines, and employing data extraction, transformation, and storage techniques to support organizational goals and decision-making processes.
Information about ICTAP and CTAP eligibility is on OPM's Career Transition Resources website at http://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/workforce-restructuring/employee-guide-to-career-transition/.
You will be rated on the following Competencies for this position:
- Communication
- Computer Languages
- Customer Service
- Data Management
- Mathematical Reasoning
- Problem Solving
- Software Development
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Note:
A full year of work is considered to be 35-40 hours of work per week. Part-time experience will be credited on the basis of time actually spent in appropriate activities. Applicants wishing to receive credit for such experience must indicate clearly the nature of their duties and responsibilities in each position and the number of hours a week spent in such employment.
Physical Requirements: Work is primarily sedentary, although some slight physical effort may be required. Travel may be required.
For more information on these qualification standards, please visit the United States Office of Personnel Management's website at
http://://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/.
Education
There is no educational substitution at this grade level.
Benefits
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. VA may offer newly-appointed Federal employee's credit for their job-related non-federal experience or active duty uniformed military service. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
Required Documents
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this
checklist to make sure you have included other documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), documentation to support Veterans Preference claims, or ICTAP/CTAP documentation (for displaced Federal employees). You will not be contacted for additional information.
- Cover Letter
- DD-214/ Statement of Service
- Disability Letter (Schedule A)
- Disability Letter (VA)
- Other (1)
- PCS Orders
- Performance Appraisal
- Professional Certification
- Proof of Marriage Status
- Resume
- Separation Notice (RIF)
- SF-15
- SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
- Transcript
IF APPLYING AS A CTAP/ICTAP ELIGIBLE:
You must submit the following documentation demonstrating eligibility for CTAP/ICTAP:
- Resume
- Agency Reduction in Force notice;
- Most recent SF-50 noting current position, grade level, and duty location
- Most recent performance appraisal (must be fully successful or above)
Note: Failure to submit
all documentation prior to the announcement closing will result in an
ineligible rating. We will not contact applicants for additional documentation.
SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action (if applicable for Time in Grade and/or Eligibility):
- Most recent SF-50 (Current Federal Employees must provide an SF-50 dated 1-12-2025 or later; Current Federal Wage System (WG/WL/WS) employees must provide one dated within one year of the closing date)
- ATTENTION: You may need to submit more than one SF-50 if we cannot verify that you meet time-in-grade by your most recent SF-50. For example, if your most recent SF-50 is a General Adjustment, we need your most recent SF-50 dated 1/14/24 and another SF-50 to verify time-in-grade. Examples of SF-50s for time-in-grade verification include your last within-grade increase or promotion to highest grade held. A promotion SF-50 shows when you started the grade level and a within-grade increase verifies that you were at that grade level for at least one year. Failure to provide your most recent SF-50 dated 1/12/2025 or later and other SF-50s to verify time-in-grade will result in you being disqualified. We cannot verify time-in-grade based on the grade and step you are currently on alone.
- Former federal employee applying under reinstatement eligibility must supply their latest SF-50 as well as any additional SF-50s needed to verify time-in-grade as stated in the above bullet.
- Award SF-50's do not provide sufficient information and will not be accepted for the purpose of verifying time-in-grade.
- Examples of appropriate SF-50s to include in addition to your most recent SF-50's include:
- Within grade increases at the highest grade held; or
- Promotions with an effective date more than one year old; or
- SF-50's at the highest grade held with an effective date more than one year old."
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form.
Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit
http://www.fedshirevets.gov/job/vetpref/index.aspx.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from
schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
How to Apply
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 08/04/2025 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12769947.
- To begin, click Apply Online to create a USA JOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account,
https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Application page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.