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Entry Level Python Data Science Jobs in Santa Barbara, CA

Simulation Software Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$110K - $180K/yr

The ideal candidate has a strong syntactical and semantic understanding of the C++ and Python ... Bachelor's or advanced degree in computer science, engineering, physics, or math and 2 years of ...

Ownership of test data and coordination with SQL database owners to ensure data integrity and ... MS or Ph.D. in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related fields. * Self ...

... materials science who are eager to apply their mathematical, programming, and problem-solving ... Strong programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or C++ for simulation automation and data analysis.

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Entry Level Python Data Science information

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$65

$96

How much do entry level python data science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level python data science in Santa Barbara, CA is $65.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53.75 and $74.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level Python data scientists when starting out, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level Python data scientists often encounter challenges such as managing large datasets, understanding the nuances of real-world data (like missing or inconsistent values), and effectively communicating technical findings to non-technical stakeholders. To address these challenges, it's helpful to develop strong data cleaning skills, practice using libraries like pandas and scikit-learn, and focus on improving data visualization and storytelling abilities. Additionally, seeking feedback from more experienced team members and participating in collaborative projects can accelerate learning and help overcome early hurdles.

What is an entry level Python data scientist?

An entry level Python data scientist is a professional who uses Python programming language to analyze, interpret, and visualize data, typically in the early stages of their data science career. They are responsible for collecting, cleaning, and preparing data, performing basic statistical analyses, and building simple machine learning models under supervision. These roles often require proficiency in Python libraries like pandas, NumPy, and scikit-learn, as well as good problem-solving skills. Entry level data scientists may work in industries such as finance, healthcare, marketing, or technology to help organizations make data-driven decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Python Data Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Python Data Scientist, you need a strong understanding of statistics, data analysis, and proficiency in Python programming, typically supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with data science libraries (such as pandas, NumPy, and scikit-learn), data visualization tools, and basic SQL is commonly required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication help you interpret data and present findings clearly. These skills ensure you can extract meaningful insights from data, collaborate effectively, and contribute to data-driven decision-making.

What is the difference between Entry Level Python Data Science vs Entry Level Data Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Python Data ScienceEntry Level Data Analyst
Required SkillsPython, SQL, statistics, machine learning basicsExcel, SQL, data visualization, basic statistics
CertificationsPython programming, data science fundamentalsExcel certifications, basic data analysis courses
Work EnvironmentTech companies, startups, data-driven teamsBusiness departments, marketing, finance teams
Common UsageBuilding models, data cleaning, predictive analyticsReporting, data visualization, trend analysis

Entry Level Python Data Science roles focus on programming, machine learning, and predictive modeling, often requiring Python and statistical knowledge. Entry Level Data Analyst positions emphasize data reporting, visualization, and basic analysis using tools like Excel and SQL. Both roles are common in various industries, but Python Data Science roles typically involve more technical and coding skills, while Data Analyst roles focus on interpreting data for business insights.

What are the most commonly searched types of Python Data Science jobs in Santa Barbara, CA? The most popular types of Python Data Science jobs in Santa Barbara, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Python Data Science jobs in Santa Barbara, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Python Data Science jobs in Santa Barbara, CA are:
What cities near Santa Barbara, CA are hiring for Entry Level Python Data Science jobs? Cities near Santa Barbara, CA with the most Entry Level Python Data Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Python Data Science job openings in Santa Barbara, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,672 per year, or $65.2 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description


Mission Support and Test Services, LLC (MSTS) manages and operates the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) for the U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). Our MISSION is to help ensure the security of the United States and its allies by providing high-hazard experimentation and incident response capabilities through operations, engineering, education, field, and integration services and by acting as environmental stewards to the Site's Cold War legacy. Our VISION is to be the user site of choice for large-scale, high-hazard, national security experimentation, with premier facilities and capabilities below ground, on the ground, and in the air. (See NNSS.gov for our unique capabilities.) Our 2,750+ professional, craft, and support employees are called upon to innovate, collaborate, and deliver on some of the more difficult nuclear security challenges facing the world today.
  • MSTS offers our full-time employees highly competitive salaries and benefits packages including medical, dental, and vision; both a pension and a 401k; paid time off and 96 hours of paid holidays; relocation (if located more than 75 miles from work location); tuition assistance and reimbursement; and more.
  • MSTS is a limited liability company consisting of Honeywell International Inc. (Honeywell), Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. (Jacobs), and HII Nuclear Inc.

Responsibilities
The Special Technologies Laboratory (STL) is in search of a Data Scientist with a strong analytical background to work across multiple teams at our Santa Barbara, CA facility, supporting the design and development of novel algorithms for signal and data processing. This position is part of an interdisciplinary team that values a diversity of subject backgrounds.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop, implement, and evaluate machine learning algorithms to analyze multi-modal data (e.g. time series, imagery, sensor streams) from critical infrastructure monitoring.
  • Design models to detect anomalous behavior and emerging risks in complex processes.
  • Apply statistical and data-driven techniques to support quality assurance, system integrity and counter-sabotage objectives.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate operational challenges into analytical solutions.
  • Perform exploratory data analysis to understand data characteristics, limitations and quality.
  • Communicate technical findings clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Contribute to documentation, testing and continuous improvement of analytical workflows.
  • Perform other duties assigned by Management.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a calculus-based (STEM) field, plus at least 2 years' relevant experience. Skill building experience must demonstrate either deeper technical specialization or additional cross-disciplinary knowledge. Graduate research experience may be recognized.
    • Course of study in applied mathematics, electrical, software or computer engineering preferred.
  • Prefer a graduate degree in a STEM field with either graduate or undergraduate degree in a calculus-based physical science, engineering, or applied mathematics field.
  • Proficiency with common compiled and interpreted scripting languages such C, C++ or Python.
  • Experience developing statistical concepts to create solutions to physical science problems.
  • Experience with building machine learning models for multi-modal datasets.
  • Interest in autonomous manufacturing and inspection.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Proficiency with signal processing, data exploration, and statistical analysis techniques is highly desired.
  • Interest in machine learning methods, including clustering, regression, and classification is preferred.
  • Experience with data visualization tools and user interfaces is preferred.
  • Experience in developing models of physical phenomena to correlate with measured data is preferred.
  • The primary work location will be at the Special Technologies Laboratory located in Santa Barbara, CA.
  • Flexible work schedule can be negotiated with the manager; employees can work 5/8s, 9/80 or 4/10 work weeks.
  • Pre-placement physical examination, which includes a drug screen, is required. MSTS maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license.

MSTS is required by DOE directive to conduct a pre-employment drug test and background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, law enforcement records, and employment/education verifications. Applicants offered employment with MSTS are also subject to a federal background investigation to meet the requirements for access to classified information or matter if the duties of the position require a DOE security clearance. Substance abuse or illegal drug use, falsification of information, criminal activity, serious misconduct or other indicators of untrustworthiness can cause a clearance to be denied or terminated by DOE, resulting in the inability to perform the duties assigned and subsequent termination of employment. In addition, Applicants for employment must be able to obtain and maintain a DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship, at least 18 years of age. Reference DOE Order 472.2, "Personnel Security". If you hold more than one citizenship (i.e., of the U.S. and another country), your ability to obtain a security clearance may be impacted.
Department of Energy Q Clearance (position will be cleared to this level). Reviews and tests for the absence of any illegal drug as defined in 10 CFR Part 707.4, "Workplace Substance Abuse Programs at DOE Sites," will be conducted. Applicant selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation, required to participate in subsequent reinvestigations, and must meet the eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. Successful completion of a counterintelligence evaluation, which may include a counterintelligence-scope polygraph examination, may also be required. Reference 10 CFR Part 709, "Counterintelligence Evaluation Program."
MSTS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. MSTS is a background screening, drug-free workplace.
Annual salary range for this position is: $83,075.20 - $124,612.80.
Starting salary is determined based on the position market value, the individual candidate education and experience and internal equity.