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Data Science Graduate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Data Scientist - NLP / Generative AI

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Data Scientist - NLP / Generative AI Location: Hybrid - Arlington, Virginia Employment Type ... Graduate degree (MS or PhD) in Computer Science, Computational Linguistics, Statistics, or a ...

Showing results 41-60

Data Science Graduate information

See Virginia salary details

$37.2K

$121.7K

$194.8K

How much do data science graduate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for data science graduate in Virginia is $121,686.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $134,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a data science graduate?

Data Science Graduates are individuals who have recently completed a degree or certification program in data science or a related field. They possess foundational knowledge in statistics, programming, and data analysis, and are equipped to apply these skills in real-world scenarios. These graduates are typically proficient in tools such as Python, R, SQL, and data visualization platforms, and are prepared for entry-level roles in data analytics, machine learning, or business intelligence. Their education often includes hands-on projects and internships to build practical experience. Data Science Graduates are in high demand across industries that rely on data-driven decision making.

What does a data science graduate do?

As a Data Science Graduate, you can expect to work on a variety of projects such as data cleaning, exploratory data analysis, and building predictive models under the guidance of senior team members. Typical responsibilities include preparing datasets, validating model outputs, and presenting findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. You’ll often collaborate with data engineers, software developers, and business analysts to ensure your solutions align with organizational goals. This early-career role is a great opportunity to learn industry-standard tools, gain mentorship, and build a portfolio of impactful projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a data science graduate?

To thrive as a Data Science Graduate, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of statistics, and proficiency in programming languages like Python or R, typically backed by a relevant degree. Familiarity with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau), machine learning frameworks (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow), and database management systems (e.g., SQL) is highly valuable. Strong communication, problem-solving, and adaptability help you convey insights and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders. These skills enable you to extract meaningful information from data, drive informed decisions, and add value to organizations in a data-driven world.

What is the difference between Data Science Graduate vs Data Analyst?

AspectData Science GraduateData Analyst
Required CredentialsDegree in Data Science, Computer Science, or related fieldDegree in Statistics, Mathematics, or related field
Work EnvironmentInternships, entry-level roles in tech or finance companiesBusiness, marketing, or finance departments across industries
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, startups, research institutionsCorporations, consulting firms, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Data Science Graduates typically focus on building models, machine learning, and advanced analytics, often requiring programming skills and a strong foundation in data science concepts. Data Analysts primarily interpret data, generate reports, and support decision-making with statistical tools. While both roles analyze data, Data Science Graduates usually work on more complex modeling tasks, whereas Data Analysts focus on data interpretation and visualization.

Infographic showing various Data Science Graduate job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $121,686 per year, or $58.5 per hour.

Contingent Senior Data Scientist - Top Secret

Sunayu, LLC

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 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.