Data Scientist Associate, Learning Supports

AIR is seeking a Data Scientist Associate to support applied research, evaluation, and technical assistance projects within the Learning Supports program. This role will contribute to data-driven work focused on improving K-12 educational systems, including high-quality instruction and intervention, educator effectiveness, STEM education, and special education. The Data Scientist Associate will support projects by building data pipelines and cloud-based applications, conducting quantitative and qualitative analyses, developing visualizations and reports, and ensuring data quality and reproducibility across studies.

The Data Scientist Associate will join AIR's Learning Supports program, which conducts research, evaluation, and implementation support for federal and state agencies, school districts, and foundations. The program produces rigorous evidence and practical tools to inform policy and practice, helping ensure early and equitable access to learning and the supports children and families need to succeed.

This position has the flexibility to work remotely within the United States (U.S.) or from one of AIR's U.S. office locations. This does not include U.S. territories.

Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a nonpartisan, not‑for‑profit organization that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to address some of the most pressing challenges in the United States and globally. We generate evidence and apply data-driven solutions that expand opportunities and improve lives for all.

• Build cloud applications and data pipelines using platform-as-a-service and/or open-source tools.
• Develop visualizations, dashboards, and reports using open-source and/or business intelligence tools.
• Support efforts to collect, compile, validate, interpret, and analyze data using standard practices and techniques.
• Assist with computer modeling and simple to moderately complex forecasting using standard software packages.
• Contribute to quantitative and/or qualitative analysis using standard techniques and methods. Work independently and collaboratively on moderately complex assignments under indirect supervision.
• Create replicable, well-documented code in a shared environment.
• Coordinate project support needs and requests from senior management and clients.
• Develop systems to maintain and verify the accuracy of data for assigned projects.
• Utilize external resources to supplement, organize, and contribute to tasks and projects.
• Present and occasionally support or organize content for internal and external meetings.
• Stay current on emerging technologies and provide recommendations for research applications.
• Review and optimize code written by others.
• Provide innovative and appropriate solutions to complex problems.

Education, Knowledge, and Experience

• A Bachelor's degree in a field with computer science emphasis (e.g., Data Science, Data Engineering, Computer Science) with a minimum of 2 years' experience or a master's degree in a field with computer science emphasis (e.g., Data Science, Data Engineering, Computer Science) Python programming Experience with database software (e.g., MySQL, MS SQL Server).
• Experience with generative AI tools and applications for use Interest in exploring and developing new tools for data applications Experience with Python web frameworks - Django, flask is preferred, but not required.
• Experience with statistical packages like R or SAS is preferred but not required.

• Effective communication skills with the ability to collaborate efficiently in a virtual work environment.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Comfortable with solution-focused problem solving and thinking through problems creatively.
• Adept in a fast-paced environment to manage multiple concurrent deliveries.
• Demonstrated analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis. Employment-based visa sponsorship (including H-1B sponsorship) is not available for this position. Depending on project work, qualified candidates may need to meet certain residency requirements.

American Institutes for Research is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability. AIR adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles and will therefore undergo reference and background checks.

AIR maintains a drug-free work environment.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process due to a physical or mental…