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Data Scientist Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Eastport Analytics, Inc

Data Scientist

$103K - $120K/yr

Two+ years in a data science role; experience in federal financial regulatory environments (e.g., Treasury) or government contracting preferred. * Advanced proficiency in Python (Pandas, NumPy ...

Eastport Analytics Inc

Data Scientist

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$103K - $120K/yr

Two+ years in a data science role; experience in federal financial regulatory environments (e.g., Treasury) or government contracting preferred. * Advanced proficiency in Python (Pandas, NumPy ...

Steampunk

Data Scientist

Mclean, VA

$125K - $160K/yr

We are seeking a Data Scientist to design, build, and deliver predictive analytics, machine ... Steampunk is a Change Agent in the Federal contracting industry, bringing new thinking to clients ...

JTEC Consulting

Data Scientist

Mclean, VA · Hybrid

$160K - $220K/yr

Work as part of a blended team of government and contractor personnel including data scientists, data engineers, and analysts * Support a range of activities and hands-on support for structured and ...

JTEC Consulting LLC

Data Scientist

Mclean, VA · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

Work as part of a blended team of government and contractor personnel including data scientists, data engineers, and analysts * Support a range of activities and hands-on support for structured and ...

Core One

Data Scientist

Tysons Corner, VA

Core One is seeking a Data Scientist to support our IC program. This position requires a TS/SCI w ... Collaborate with internal components, partner organizations, and other contractor resources to ...

FIRST STOP HEALTH

Data Scientist (1099)

Chicago, IL · On-site

Data Scientist (1099 Contractor) About Us: On a mission to deliver affordable, delightful healthcare for all, First Stop Health provides connected, whole-person virtual care to employers 24/7 through ...

SOSi

Senior Data Scientist

Myrtle Point, OR · On-site

The contractor shall conduct data provenance tracking, ensuring documentation of sources ... Master's degree in Data Science, Machine Learning, Statistics, or a related field, or; * nine (9) ...

SOSi

Senior Data Scientist

OR · On-site +1

The contractor shall conduct data provenance tracking, ensuring documentation of sources ... Master's degree in Data Science, Machine Learning, Statistics, or a related field, or; * nine (9) ...

Steampunk

Data Scientist

Mclean, VA · On-site +1

$125K - $160K/yr

Overview We are seeking a Data Scientist to design, build, and deliver predictive analytics ... Steampunk is a Change Agent in the Federal contracting industry, bringing new thinking to clients ...

SOSi

Senior Data Scientist

OR

The contractor shall conduct data provenance tracking, ensuring documentation of sources ... Master's degree in Data Science, Machine Learning, Statistics, or a related field, or; * nine (9) ...

Sustainment

Data Scientist

Austin, TX

This is a non-negotiable, hard requirement driven by our Department of War contractor obligations ... We are looking for a Data Scientist who operates at the frontier of that data: collecting it ...

Steampunk

Data Scientist

Mclean, VA

$125K - $160K/yr

Overview We are looking for seasoned Data Scientist to work with our existing team of Data ... Steampunk is a Change Agent in the Federal contracting industry, bringing new thinking to clients ...

Steampunk

Data Scientist

Mclean, VA

$125K - $160K/yr

We are looking for seasoned Data Scientist to work with our existing team of Data Scientists and ... Steampunk is a Change Agent in the Federal contracting industry, bringing new thinking to clients ...

Steampunk

Data Scientist

Mclean, VA · On-site +1

$125K - $160K/yr

We are looking for a more than just a "Data Scientist", but a technologist with excellent ... Steampunk is a Change Agent in the Federal contracting industry, bringing new thinking to clients ...

Steampunk

Data Scientist

Mclean, VA · On-site

$125K - $160K/yr

We are looking for a more than just a "Data Scientist", but a technologist with excellent ... Steampunk is a Change Agent in the Federal contracting industry, bringing new thinking to clients ...

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All JobsData Scientist Contractor Jobs

Data Scientist Contractor information

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$165K

$243.5K

How much do data scientist contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for data scientist contractor in the United States is $165,018.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $133,500.00 and $170,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract data scientist?

A contract data scientist is a professional hired on a temporary basis to analyze data, develop models, and provide insights for a specific project or period. They typically work with tools like Python, R, or SQL and may need to adapt quickly to different teams or environments. Contract roles often have defined durations and may require relevant experience and technical skills.

What is the highest paying contractor job?

The highest paying contractor jobs for data scientists typically include senior or specialized roles such as machine learning engineer, AI researcher, or data science consultant, often earning six-figure salaries. These roles require advanced skills in programming, statistical analysis, and experience with tools like Python, R, or cloud platforms, and may involve working on complex projects or in high-demand industries like finance or technology.

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

To thrive as a Data Scientist Contractor, you need strong analytical abilities, proficiency in statistical modeling, and a solid background in mathematics, computer science, or a related field. Expertise with programming languages such as Python or R, experience using data visualization tools, and familiarity with cloud platforms or big data frameworks are typically required, along with certifications like AWS Certified Data Analytics or Google Professional Data Engineer. Outstanding problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication set top contractors apart, enabling them to translate complex data into actionable insights for clients. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering impactful, timely solutions and building client trust in dynamic project environments.

What are Data Scientist Contractors?

Data Scientist Contractors are professionals hired on a temporary or project basis to analyze and interpret complex data, build predictive models, and provide actionable insights for organizations. Unlike full-time employees, contractors typically work for a defined period or on specific projects, often bringing specialized expertise. They may help with data cleaning, statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization, adapting quickly to different business environments. Hiring a contractor allows companies to access advanced analytical skills without committing to permanent employment.

Is 40 too late for data science?

Data scientists can enter the field at any age, including 40 or older, as skills in programming, statistics, and machine learning are more important than age. Many professionals successfully transition into data science later in their careers by gaining relevant certifications and experience with tools like Python or R.

What is the difference between Data Scientist Contractor vs Data Analyst Contractor?

AspectData Scientist ContractorData Analyst Contractor
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Data Science, Statistics, or related field; experience with machine learning and programming languages like Python or RBachelor's in Statistics, Mathematics, or related field; proficiency in SQL, Excel, and data visualization tools
Work EnvironmentProject-based, often remote or on-site, working on complex data modeling and predictive analyticsProject-based or ongoing, typically in office or remote, focusing on data cleaning, reporting, and visualization
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, finance, healthcare, consulting firmsRetail, marketing, finance, healthcare, and other industries requiring data reporting

In summary, Data Scientist Contractors focus on advanced analytics, machine learning, and predictive modeling, requiring more specialized skills and credentials. Data Analyst Contractors primarily handle data reporting, visualization, and basic analysis. Both roles are project-based and often remote, but differ in complexity and technical requirements.

How does a Data Scientist Contractor typically integrate with existing teams and projects?

As a Data Scientist Contractor, you are often brought in to address specific project needs or to provide specialized expertise that the existing team may lack. You will usually collaborate closely with full-time data scientists, engineers, and business stakeholders, contributing to ongoing projects or initiating new analyses. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as contractors need to quickly understand project goals, integrate with established workflows, and deliver actionable insights within set timelines. This role offers exposure to diverse projects and can help expand your professional network, but may also require rapid onboarding and self-directed learning.

What is the 80 20 rule in data science?

In data science, the 80/20 rule, also known as the Pareto principle, suggests that roughly 80% of results come from 20% of the efforts or features. Data scientists often use this concept to focus on the most impactful variables or tasks to optimize model performance and efficiency.
More about Data Scientist Contractor jobs
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Data Scientist Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Data Scientist Contractor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 78% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $165,018 per year, or $79.3 per hour.

Data Scientist

Systems Planning and Analysis

Lorton, VA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Overview
Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) is a well-established and progressive defense contracting company in the DC Metro area. We are a professional services firm established in 1972 that has a long-standing reputation for unrivaled technical and analytical support to some of the top decision makers in the Federal Sector. We do state-of-the-art work and have a cadre of outstanding professionals on our team.
The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division (JOID) provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.
JOID assists the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) in developing leading edge technologies to counter WMD in support of Combatant Commands (CCMDs) and transitioning these technologies to military services and Combatant Commanders (COCOMs). SPA provides expertise across the full range of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high-yield explosives (CBRNE) WMD, Counter Improvised Threat and Countering Threat Network technologies to support understanding, detection, identification, characterization, denial, control, disabling, defeating, disposing, safeguarding the force, managing consequences, and test and evaluation in support of military and civilian operations.
We have a near-term need for a Data Scientist to provide onsite support in Lorton, VA.
Responsibilities
The candidate will assist the Nuclear Technologies Detection (NTD) Division in providing a data science services capable of supporting scalable, highly available application solutions that leverage cloud native services; supporting the transformation of monolithic, legacy applications to a more modular, micro-services architecture; providing artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) pipeline architecture design, development, and test knowledge and expertise with respect to AI/ML areas including natural language processing, computer vision, machine learning, and large language modeling; providing data architecture design, development and test knowledge and expertise with respect to cloud architecture, design patterns, and data analysis requirements; and defining data architectures that support both the enterprise and application-level capabilities with systems and network security, scalability, fault tolerance and optimal performance. Apply strong expertise in analyzing, interpreting, and applying modeling tools and an understanding of DoD initiatives aimed at closing knowledge gaps by supporting foundational research, hazard modeling, and data/computer science to support the warfighter. Stay abreast of current novel science and technology (S&T) in the field while exhibiting programmatic skills to trace capabilities to stakeholder requirements. The position is for in-person work at the DTRA HQ in Lorton, VA, at least 2 days a week and additional days as the government requires to complete mission objectives.
Qualifications
Required:
  • BS in Data Science, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
  • 3+ years of experience in application of scientific principles for scientific research, analysis, and modeling involving data/software.
  • Experience in the following areas:
    • Analyzing and recommending approaches for making heterogeneous data sources broadly available for discoverability and access to support a wide consumer-base, analytic needs, and use by diverse applications, services, and systems.
    • Aiding in optimizing the management of data across nodes and the performance of distribution, search, and retrieval.
    • Executing analytical experiments and prototyping to help solve problems across various domains and industries.
    • Identifying relevant data sources and sets to mine for client business needs, and collect large structured and unstructured datasets and variables.
  • Ability to accomplish tasks with minimal supervision and a demonstrated proactive work approach, with a strong sense of accountability, work ethic, and punctuality.
  • Self-starter, self-motivated, problem solver, with demonstrated critical and analytical thinking and multi-tasking skills.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Agility with computer software and Microsoft Office products.
  • Active DoD Secret clearance with the abiltiy to obtain a Top Secret clearance.
  • Broad understanding of DTRA and DTRA RD's mission and organization.
  • Able to travel of 10-20% to support program goals and deliver reports or presentations.

Desired:
  • MS in a STEM or related field and 5+ years of related experience in that field.
  • Experience within or working with the CBDP enterprise (JPEO, JSTO, JRO, National Labs, DoD Service Labs, DHS, DARPA, BARDA).
  • An understanding of database management, data trends analysis, data structures, databases, and data warehousing.
  • Experience working with national strategy and doctrine development or implementation.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance.
  • Knowledge of/experience in Federal/DoD acquisition.
  • Experience with AR/VR/XR, and TAK products.
  • Experience analyzing data to produce reports and improve processes for U.S. Military Projects.

Apply