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Data Science Jobs in Columbia, MS (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, or a related field * Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in data management, analytics, or similar, preferably within a marketing environment

AI Solution Architect

Hattiesburg, MS · On-site +1

$62.50 - $82.25/hr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or related technical field * 6+ years of software development experience with 4+ years in AI/ML architecture role * 3+ years of hands ...

AI Solution Architect

Hattiesburg, MS · On-site +1

$62.50 - $82.25/hr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or related technical field * 6+ years of software development experience with 4+ years in AI/ML architecture role * 3+ years of hands ...

Data Engineer

Hattiesburg, MS · On-site

$96K - $115K/yr

About Us We are AI researchers and builders who understand how to curate data and RL environments that truly improve models. We curated OpenThoughts, one of the best open reasoning datasets, and have ...

Data Engineer

Hattiesburg, MS

$96K - $115K/yr

About Us We are AI researchers and builders who understand how to curate data and RL environments that truly improve models. We curated OpenThoughts, one of the best open reasoning datasets, and have ...

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Showing results 1-20

Data Science information

See Columbia, MS salary details

$33.5K

$109.7K

$175.6K

How much do data science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for data science in Columbia, MS is $109,654.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,000.00 and $121,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is data science a good career?

Data science is a growing field with high demand for professionals skilled in statistics, programming, and data analysis tools like Python and R. It offers competitive salaries, diverse industry applications, and opportunities for advancement, making it a strong career choice for those with relevant skills and education.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Data Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Data Scientist, you need a strong background in statistics, programming (often Python or R), and data analysis, usually supported by a degree in a quantitative field. Familiarity with machine learning libraries (like scikit-learn or TensorFlow), big data tools (such as Hadoop or Spark), and data visualization platforms is typically required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for translating complex data insights into actionable business strategies. These skills and qualities are essential for extracting value from data, driving informed decisions, and effectively collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

Is 40 too late for data science?

Data science is a field open to individuals of all ages, and many professionals transition into it later in their careers. Success often depends on acquiring relevant skills such as programming, statistics, and machine learning, which can be learned through online courses, bootcamps, or degrees regardless of age.

What are some common challenges faced by data scientists when working with real-world datasets?

Data scientists often encounter challenges such as missing or inconsistent data, unstructured formats, and noisy information in real-world datasets. Cleaning and preprocessing data to ensure its quality can be time-consuming but is critical for building accurate models. Additionally, data scientists may work closely with domain experts and other team members to better understand the data's context and ensure their analyses align with business objectives. Overcoming these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills and effective collaboration within cross-functional teams.

What is data science?

Data science is an interdisciplinary field that uses scientific methods, algorithms, and systems to extract insights and knowledge from structured and unstructured data. It combines skills from statistics, computer science, and domain expertise to analyze and interpret complex data sets. Data scientists work with large amounts of data to identify patterns, make predictions, and help organizations make data-driven decisions.

What jobs can a Data Scientist do?

A Data Scientist can work in roles such as data analyst, machine learning engineer, data engineer, or business intelligence analyst. These roles involve analyzing large datasets, developing predictive models, and using tools like Python, R, and SQL to support decision-making across various industries.

What is the difference between Data Science vs Data Analyst?

AspectData ScienceData Analyst
Required skillsStatistics, programming (Python, R), machine learningData visualization, SQL, basic statistics
Work environmentDeveloping models, predictive analytics, researchReporting, data cleaning, descriptive analysis
Tools usedPython, R, Jupyter, TensorFlowExcel, SQL, Tableau, Power BI
Industry usageTech, finance, healthcare, e-commerceRetail, marketing, finance, healthcare

Data Science and Data Analyst roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope. Data Scientists focus on building predictive models and advanced analytics, requiring programming and machine learning skills. Data Analysts primarily handle data cleaning, reporting, and visualization. Both roles are essential in data-driven industries, but Data Science is more technical and research-oriented, while Data Analysis emphasizes interpreting data for business insights.

What work do you do as a Data Scientist?

A Data Scientist analyzes large datasets to extract insights, build predictive models, and inform business decisions. They use programming languages like Python or R, and tools such as SQL and machine learning frameworks, often working in collaborative environments with data engineers and analysts.

What Does a Data Scientist Do?

As a Data Scientist, you are qualified to work in such diverse fields as research and development, politics, advertising and marketing, technology, healthcare, government, and higher education as well as multiple others. In general, your duties and responsibilities will be to compile and analyze relevant statistics and turn those numbers into algorithms that reveal insights that can be used by other researchers in their areas of study. Data Science can reveal things like consumer buying habits or the likelihood of success for a course of action. Other duties might vary, depending on your unique field of specialty. Related areas in which a Data Scientist might wish to focus include work as a Data Analyst, Machine Learning Engineer, and Project Manager.
What cities near Columbia, MS are hiring for Data Science jobs? Cities near Columbia, MS with the most Data Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Data Science job openings in Columbia, MS as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,654 per year, or $52.7 per hour.

Environmental Scientist

Allen Engineering and Science, Inc.

Hattiesburg, MS • On-site

$62K - $82K/yr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Salary:

Allen Engineering & Science, Inc (AllenES) is seeking a motivated Environmental Scientist to support a wide range of environmental compliance, permitting, field investigation, and natural resource projects throughout the Southeast. This position combines office and field responsibilities and provides opportunities to work on industrial, commercial, municipal, utility, and infrastructure projects.


The successful candidate will support environmental permitting, regulatory compliance, water quality monitoring, natural resource assessments, and field investigations while working closely with senior project managers and multidisciplinary engineering teams. The ideal candidate enjoys field work, problem solving, and working directly with industrial clients.


Primary Responsibilities:


Environmental Compliance

  • Conduct industrial SWPPP inspections and compliance audits
  • Perform routine and comprehensive stormwater inspections
  • Collect stormwater samples in accordance with NPDES permits
  • Prepare inspection reports and corrective action documentation
  • Assist clients with permit compliance and environmental reporting
  • Support SPCC Plan inspections and facility assessments
  • Conduct environmental compliance site visits


Water Resources

  • Collect groundwater samples using low-flow sampling techniques
  • Perform surface water sampling
  • Measure groundwater elevations
  • Maintain chain-of-custody documentation
  • Coordinate laboratory analyses
  • Perform basic data review and QA/QC


Permitting & Regulatory Support

Assist with preparation of:

  • NPDES Permit Applications
  • Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs)
  • Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plans
  • Air Permit Applications
  • Environmental compliance reports
  • Technical memorandums
  • Regulatory agency correspondence


Natural Resources

  • Conduct wetland delineations using the USACE Regional Supplements
  • Identify waters of the United States (WOTUS)
  • Complete threatened and endangered species habitat assessments
  • Utilize GIS, aerial imagery, and field mapping tools
  • Support permitting associated with USACE Section 404/401 authorizations


Drone & Technology Support (Preferred)

Assist with environmental data collection utilizing:

  • UAV photogrammetry
  • LiDAR surveys
  • Thermal imaging
  • Orthomosaic mapping
  • GPS/GNSS field equipment
  • Mobile GIS applications

(No prior drone experience required, but interest in learning UAS technologies is highly desirable.)


Industrial Field Work

Projects may include:

  • Manufacturing facilities
  • Paper mills
  • Chemical plants
  • Wood products facilities
  • Landfills
  • Pipelines
  • Utilities
  • Municipal infrastructure

The position requires frequent interaction with facility personnel while following strict health and safety procedures.


Required Qualifications

  • B.S. in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Biology, Ecology, Geology, Natural Resources, or related field
  • 25 years of environmental consulting or regulatory experience (preferred)
  • Strong technical writing and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently in field environments
  • Willingness to travel throughout the Southeast (primarily day travel with occasional overnight travel)
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record


Physical Requirements

The position regularly requires:

  • Walking long distances over uneven terrain
  • Working outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Carrying field equipment up to 50 pounds
  • Working around industrial equipment
  • Climbing slopes, stream banks, and embankments
  • Operating company vehicles