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Model Validation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

You will lead model validation efforts supporting mission-critical use cases across defense and federal financial domains, ensuring models are sound, explainable, compliant, and operationally fit for ...

You will lead model validation efforts supporting missioncritical use cases across defense and federal financial domains, ensuring models are sound, explainable, compliant, and operationally fit for ...

You will lead model validation efforts supporting missioncritical use cases across defense and federal financial domains, ensuring models are sound, explainable, compliant, and operationally fit for ...

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS: * 2 years of prior experience in model validation or model audit * 2 years of prior experience in the Department of Defense in a quantitative or analytical supervision role

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS: * 2 years of prior experience in model validation or model audit * 2 years of prior experience in the Department of Defense in a quantitative or analytical supervision role

Experience in model validation, model risk, and/or supervisory review of financial models is highly relevant. Our Impact: * Drive quantitative research and modeling to support multifamily credit risk ...

Actuary, Model Risk

Richmond, VA · On-site

$115.30K - $135.60K/yr

Validate that models are fit for purpose and functioning as expected based on their design, input data, methodology, and output * Provide effective challenge on model rationale, reliability ...

Actuary, Model Risk

Richmond, VA · On-site +1

$115.90K - $220.20K/yr

Validate that models are fit for purpose and functioning as expected based on their design, input data, methodology, and output * Provide effective challenge on model rationale, reliability ...

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Model Validation information

See Virginia salary details

$22

$51

$77

How much do model validation jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for model validation in Virginia is $51.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.09 and $62.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Model Validation job?

A Model Validation job involves assessing and verifying the accuracy, reliability, and performance of mathematical and statistical models used in finance, risk management, or other industries. Professionals in this role conduct independent testing, evaluate assumptions, and ensure models comply with regulatory and internal standards. They identify weaknesses, suggest improvements, and help mitigate potential risks associated with model usage. Model validators often work with machine learning models, credit risk models, or trading algorithms, depending on the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Model Validation position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Model Validation professional, you need strong quantitative, statistical, and analytical skills, often supported by a degree in mathematics, statistics, finance, or a related field. Proficiency with programming languages such as Python or R, statistical modeling software, and familiarity with regulatory guidelines like SR 11-7 or CCAR is essential. Outstanding attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for rigorously assessing complex models, documenting findings, and collaborating effectively with model developers and risk management teams.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Model Validation roles?

One common challenge in Model Validation is staying up-to-date with evolving regulatory requirements and industry best practices, which can impact how models should be tested and documented. Model validators often work with highly complex financial or risk models, requiring strong analytical skills to assess underlying assumptions and potential risks. Additionally, balancing the need for thoroughness with tight deadlines and collaborating with model developers to address issues can be demanding. However, overcoming these challenges offers valuable opportunities to build expertise, work cross-functionally, and play a critical role in ensuring the integrity and reliability of key business decisions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Model Validation jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Model Validation jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Model Validation jobs in Virginia? For Model Validation jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Model Validation jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Model Validation jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Model Validation jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Model Validation job openings:
Infographic showing various Model Validation job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,225 per year, or $51.6 per hour.

Model Validation Lead

Guidehouse

Mclean, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Guidehouse rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 57 rated business consultants


Job description

Job Family:
Data Science Consulting
Travel Required:
Up to 25%
Clearance Required:
Active Secret
What You Will Do
As a Model Validation Lead, you will provide technical and programmatic leadership for the independent validation, governance, and risk management of advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI models deployed in federal environments. You will lead model validation efforts supporting mission-critical use cases across defense and federal financial domains, ensuring models are sound, explainable, compliant, and operationally fit for purpose.
You will work closely with data scientists, MLOps engineers, system owners, risk stakeholders, and government counterparts to define validation standards, execute reviews, and ensure alignment with federal, DoD, and financial governance expectations.
Key responsibilities include:
  • Lead end-to-end model validation activities for ML, AI, and advanced analytical models
  • Define and oversee validation frameworks covering conceptual soundness, data integrity, methodology, performance, bias, and stability
  • Review and challenge model assumptions, feature engineering, training approaches, and performance metrics
  • Assess model robustness, sensitivity, and limitations across operational scenarios
  • Evaluate model explainability, transparency, and interpretability for technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Partner with MLOps and engineering teams to ensure models are production-ready and compliant with governance requirements
  • Establish validation documentation standards, review artifacts, and approval processes
  • Support audits, reviews, and governance forums related to AI/ML risk and compliance
  • Advise clients on model risk management, AI governance, and responsible AI practices
  • Mentor junior staff and serve as a technical authority within analytics and AI engagements
What You Will Need
  • An ACTIVE and MAINTAINED "SECRET" Federal or DoD security clearance.
  • Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Engineering, Economics, or a related quantitative field
  • FIVE (5) or more years of experience in model validation, model risk management, data science, quantitative analysis, or advanced analytics
  • Experience validating ML, statistical, and predictive models in regulated or high-risk environments
  • Experience in Python and analytics tooling used to assess, test, and challenge models
  • Experience working with large-scale datasets and complex analytical pipelines
  • Experience leading small teams or workstreams and interfacing directly with senior stakeholders

What Would Be Great to Have
  • Strong understanding of model risk management concepts, including governance, documentation, and independent review
  • Experience supporting the Department of Defense, including exposure to Advana or enterprise analytics platforms
  • Hands-on experience validating models using federal financial, budgetary, accounting, or audit data
  • Experience validating models deployed on Databricks (e.g., Spark, MLflow)
  • Ability to translate technical findings into clear, defensible conclusions for government and executive audiences
  • Exposure to models developed or operationalized in Palantir Foundry
  • Familiarity with MLOps practices and how validation integrates into CI/CD pipelines
  • Experience in Azure Government, AWS GovCloud, or other regulated cloud environments
  • Knowledge of Responsible AI, fairness, bias detection, and explainability techniques
  • Experience supporting internal or external audits of AI/ML systems
  • Master's degree or PhD in a quantitative or technical discipline

What We Offer:
Guidehouse offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflects our commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.
Benefits include:
  • Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays
  • Position may be eligible for a discretionary variable incentive bonus
  • Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Basic Life & Supplemental Life
  • Health Savings Account, Dental/Vision & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Student Loan PayDown
  • Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development & Learning Opportunities
  • Skills Development & Certifications
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
  • Emergency Back-Up Childcare Program
  • Mobility Stipend

About Guidehouse
Guidehouse is an Equal Opportunity Employer-Protected Veterans, Individuals with Disabilities or any other basis protected by law, ordinance, or regulation.
Guidehouse will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law or ordinance including the Fair Chance Ordinance of Los Angeles and San Francisco.
If you have visited our website for information about employment opportunities, or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation, please contact Guidehouse Recruiting at 1-571-633-1711 or via email at RecruitingAccommodation@guidehouse.com. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodation.
All communication regarding recruitment for a Guidehouse position will be sent from Guidehouse email domains including @guidehouse.com or guidehouse@myworkday.com. Correspondence received by an applicant from any other domain should be considered unauthorized and will not be honored by Guidehouse. Note that Guidehouse will never charge a fee or require a money transfer at any stage of the recruitment process and does not collect fees from educational institutions for participation in a recruitment event. Never provide your banking information to a third party purporting to need that information to proceed in the hiring process.
If any person or organization demands money related to a job opportunity with Guidehouse, please report the matter to Guidehouse's Ethics Hotline. If you want to check the validity of correspondence you have received, please contact recruiting@guidehouse.com. Guidehouse is not responsible for losses incurred (monetary or otherwise) from an applicant's dealings with unauthorized third parties.
Guidehouse does not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies. All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Guidehouse and Guidehouse will not be obligated to pay a placement fee.

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