About the role

The Lead Data Scientist will design and validate predictive models and algorithms to support clinical decision-making and operational optimization within the Department of Veterans Affairs. They will collaborate with clinical and technical teams to translate analytical findings into actionable improvements while ensuring compliance with data governance and security standards.

What they look for

Data Science Machine Learning Predictive Modeling Python R TensorFlow PyTorch Power BI Tableau ETL HL7 FHIR Clinical Informatics Agile Data Governance Data Visualization

Requirements

Candidates must possess a Master's degree in a quantitative discipline and at least 10 years of experience in data science, with 5 years specifically in healthcare or federal health IT. Proficiency in Python or R, machine learning frameworks, and familiarity with interoperability standards like HL7 and FHIR are required.

Full description

Job DetailsLevel: SeniorJob Location: Arlington/ DC Area - Arlington, VA 22204Position Type: Full TimeEducation Level: Graduate DegreeSalary Range: $120,000.00 - $165,000.00 Salary/yearTravel Percentage: Up to 25%Job Shift: DayJob Category: ConsultantLead Data Scientist Location: Remote (with periodic on-site at VA facilities) | Full-Time | Clearance: VA Eligible Position Overview Commonwealth Strategic Solutions is seeking a Lead Data Scientist to serve as the technical lead for advanced analytics, predictive modeling, and machine learning initiatives supporting clinical decision-making and operational optimization within the Department of Veterans Affairs. This role supports VA’s National Center for Collaborative Healthcare Innovation and requires hand-on experience applying data science in federal health environments, with particular emphasis on interoperability, developing programmatic dashboards, and using VA systems. Key Responsibilities Design, develop, and validate algorithms and predictive models for interoperability workflows, clinical informatics systems, and Agile integration reporting Apply machine learning and advanced analytics techniques to support clinical decision support, operational optimization, and research outcomes Ensure compliance with VA data governance, security, and privacy standards Integrate and validate data across clinical informatics systems, including EHR platforms Develop data visualization products and analytical deliverables for program leadership and clinical stakeholders Support Agile delivery cadences including PI Planning, backlog analytics, and predictive capacity planning Collaborate with clinical, technical, and program management teams to translate analytical findings into actionable operational improvements Work Location Remote with periodic on-site support at VA facilities as required. Candidates in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area are preferred. Equal Opportunity Commonwealth Strategic Solutions is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage veterans, service-disabled veterans, and individuals from all backgrounds to apply. QualificationsRequired Qualifications Master’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Health Informatics, Statistics, or a related quantitative discipline 10+ years in data science or advanced analytics roles 5+ years applying machine learning and predictive modeling in healthcare or federal health IT environments Proficiency in Python or R and ML frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) Experience with data visualization tools (Power BI, Tableau) and ETL processes Experience with interoperability standards (HL7, FHIR) and clinical terminology (SNOMED, LOINC) Experience supporting the Department of Veterans Affairs Experience pulling and using datasets from the VA’s Corporate Data Warehouse (CDW) Strongly Preferred Qualifications Ph.D. in Data Science, Machine Learning, or Health Informatics Direct experience with VA VistA/CPRS and/or Oracle Health (Cerner Millennium) systems Experience supporting VA’s Electronic Health Record Modernization (EHRM) program or related clinical informatics initiatives within VHA Prior work within VHA, OHT (Office of Health Technology), OIT (Office of Information and Technology), or VA’s Office of Clinical Informatics (OCI) Experience validating data migration fidelity between legacy and modernized EHR platforms Familiarity with SAFe Agile delivery in a federal healthcare context Certifications (Preferred) Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA) Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) or SAFe Practitioner Healthcare Data Science or AI certifications Clearance & Citizenship Must be a U.S. citizen Must be eligible for VA clearance/background investigation Ability to obtain and maintain a government-issued Personal Identity Verification (PIV) badge