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Computational Social Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Data Scientist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$69K - $125K/yr

Degree in a quantitative or analytical field such as Computer Science, Mathematics, Economics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, or Computational Social Science; or Master's degree or equivalent ...

Contingent AI Engineer - Top Secret

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$111K - $133K/yr

Bachelor's, Master's, or equivalent graduate degree in a quantitative or analytical field (Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, Computational Social Science, etc.

Senior AI Engineer

Alexandria, VA · Hybrid

$131K - $237K/yr

Bachelor's, Master's, or equivalent graduate degree in a quantitative or analytical field (Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, Computational Social Science, etc.

Senior Software Engineer

Alexandria, VA · Hybrid

$131K - $237K/yr

Bachelor's, Master's, or equivalent graduate degree in a quantitative or analytical field (Software Development, Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, Computational Social ...

Showing results 21-40

Computational Social Science information

See Virginia salary details

$40

$54

$73

How much do computational social science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for computational social science in Virginia is $54.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.49 and $72.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is computational social science?

Computational social science is an interdisciplinary field that uses computational methods, such as data analysis, simulations, and modeling, to study social phenomena and human behavior. It combines tools from computer science, statistics, and social sciences to analyze large-scale social data, like social media activity, online interactions, or census records. This approach helps researchers uncover patterns and trends that would be difficult or impossible to detect using traditional social science methods alone.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computational social scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computational Social Scientist, you need a solid background in social science research methods, statistics, and programming—often supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with data analysis tools such as Python, R, machine learning libraries, and experience with large datasets or social network analysis software is typical. Strong analytical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and effective communication skills help you interpret results and convey insights to diverse audiences. These competencies are crucial for generating impactful, data-driven insights into complex social phenomena and informing decision-making.

What is the difference between Computational Social Science vs Data Scientist?

AspectComputational Social ScienceData Scientist
Required CredentialsSocial science background, programming skillsStatistics, programming, domain knowledge
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, academia, social research firmsTech companies, finance, healthcare
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, social research organizationsCorporations, startups, consulting firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Computational Social Science focuses on analyzing social phenomena using computational methods rooted in social science theories, often within academic or research settings. Data Scientists, however, apply statistical and machine learning techniques to large datasets across various industries. While both roles require programming skills, Computational Social Science emphasizes social theory and research, whereas Data Science centers on data analysis and business insights.

What types of data sources and analytical methods are commonly used in computational social science roles?

In Computational Social Science positions, professionals typically work with large and diverse datasets, including social media feeds, digital communication records, surveys, and online behavioral data. Analytical methods often involve a mix of quantitative techniques such as network analysis, machine learning, natural language processing, and agent-based modeling. Collaborative projects may require integrating insights from computer science, sociology, and statistics, making interdisciplinary teamwork a frequent part of the role. Adapting to evolving data privacy guidelines and ensuring ethical data use are also important daily considerations.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Computational Social Science jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Computational Social Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Computational Social Science job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,270 per year, or $54.5 per hour.

Contingent Senior Data Scientist - Top Secret

Sunayu, LLC

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Category: Data Science
Travel Required: No
Remote Type: No
**Position is contingent upon contract award**
Sunayu, LLC is looking for a Data Scientist to lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced analytics and AI/ML solutions for mission-critical applications.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of analysts, engineers, and developers to solve complex challenges and deliver innovative, production-ready algorithms and platforms.
  • Apply cutting-edge techniques in statistical analysis, predictive analytics, entity resolution, graph analytics, explainable AI, and operational analytics.
  • Work with diverse data types (structured, unstructured, open source, digital media) and leverage modern tools such as Python, PyTorch, Scikit-learn, LLM frameworks, and geospatial analytics platforms.
  • Contribute to the integration of AI, DevSecOps, data engineering, platform engineering, cybersecurity, and observability in a fast-paced, engineering-centric environment.

Basic Requirements:
  • Bachelor's, Master's, or equivalent graduate degree in a quantitative or analytical field (Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, Computational Social Science, etc.). Relevant experience may be substituted for a degree.
  • 12+ years of experience in data science, analytics, or quantitative intelligence analysis, developing analytics and AI/ML solutions (10+ years with a Master's).
  • Active Top Secret clearance and eligibility for TS/SCI with Polygraph.
  • Proficiency in Python and at least one other scripting language.
  • Demonstrated experience collaborating with hybrid teams to research, build, and deploy complex, user-friendly analytical platforms.
  • Track record of creative problem solving, active learning, and mission-focused outcomes.
  • Familiarity with version control tools (git, svn, JIRA) and deployment technologies (Docker, Kubernetes, OpenShift).

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience supporting military or intelligence community customers.
  • Expertise with knowledge graphs (neo4j, graph ML), predictive algorithms, image classifiers, object detectors, information retrieval, SQL, Elastic Stack.
  • Experience deploying data science applications (e.g., Streamlit) and working with distributed systems (Hadoop, Ray, Spark).
  • Familiarity with Azure/C2S, hardware platforms (CPUs, GPUs, FPGAs), and advanced analytical methodologies (social network analysis, supply chain analysis, NLP, classification algorithms, image processing).
  • Experience with Large Language Models (LLMs), Multimodal LLMs, Langchain, vLLM, llama.cpp.

Who We Are
Sunayu, LLC serves as a premier technology partner to the Defense and Intelligence communities, delivering mission-critical engineering solutions across the nation. Our operations are anchored in a commitment to trust, accountability, and ethical transparency, ensuring the high-performance outcomes necessary to protect our country's most vital interests.
Culture
Our strength lies in our community: Our team prioritizes collaboration, professional growth, and encourages open communication. At Sunayu, we don't just secure the mission-we grow together.
Career Development
We support and encourage our team members to continue their professional growth by providing company-reimbursed training and continuing education of up to $5,000 per year. We also participate in many industry conferences and events where we share our expertise and experiences.
Pay Rate
Salary range considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills, as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits
  • 3 Medical Plan Options
  • Dental and Vision
  • FSA, DCFSA, HSA
  • Life/AD&D Insurance
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Training and Educational Assistance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 11 Federal holidays
  • 401k plan with up to a 6% match (100% immediate vesting)

Equal Opportunity Employer
Sunayu, LLC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability status, marital status, genetic information, medical condition, or any other characteristic protected by law.