Big Data Analyst

Security clearance: Top Secret/SCI

Location: Herndon, VA / Springfield, VA
Work Arrangement: On-site
Security Clearance: Active TS/SCI required; must be willing and able to obtain a CI polygraph

Salary Range: $80,000-$180,000
About Data Machines

Join the Future of Data-Driven Decision Making

At Data Machines, we leverage data analytics, DevSecOps, machine intelligence, and data science to engineer innovative solutions for our Federal Government, Department of Defense, and commercial customers. Our teams solve complex, mission-critical challenges using modern cloud technologies, high-performance computing, and secure software development.
About the Role

Data Machines is seeking a Big Data Analyst to join our team supporting mission-critical customer requirements. This position will work from our Herndon, Virginia facility and at a customer site in Springfield, Virginia, as needed.

In this role, you will work closely with software developers, ETL and data engineers, data SMEs, infrastructure teams, cybersecurity professionals, and mission partners. You will analyze complex datasets, evaluate data quality and coverage, identify gaps, and help shape data engineering and analytical approaches that improve mission capabilities.

This is a hands-on position for someone who is comfortable working with large and complex datasets and collaborating directly with both technical teams and end users.
What You'll Be Doing

• Perform dataset evaluations and assessments to support customer and government decision-making.
• Analyze large and complex datasets to identify trends, gaps, inconsistencies, and opportunities for improvement.
• Help shape data engineering approaches that improve analytical capabilities and workflows.
• Identify and document gaps within available data and analytical capabilities.
• Work closely with software and data engineers to define requirements, provide feedback, and validate application enhancements.
• Support end users by providing subject matter expertise related to data, analytics, and application functionality.
• Develop repeatable processes and methodologies for evaluating data and communicating findings.
• Use tools such as Python, SQL, Spark, or PySpark to explore, analyze, and process data.

Minimum Qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Current/active TS/SCI security clearance and willingness and ability to obtain a CI polygraph.
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field or equivalent professional experience.
• 5+ years of experience as a Data Analyst, Data Scientist, Big Data Analyst, or similar role.
• Experience developing repeatable processes for data evaluation and communicating findings to government or mission stakeholders.
• Experience analyzing technical datasets, including telemetry, telecommunications, cellular, Wi-Fi, or similar data types.
• Experience using Python, SQL, Spark, PySpark, or a comparable scripting/data-processing technology.
• Experience collaborating with software engineers to define requirements, provide feedback, and validate technical implementations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to independently manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to work on-site in Herndon, VA and at the customer site in Springfield, VA, as required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience translating complex technical findings into clear conclusions for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Experience with geospatial analysis, including Activity-Based Intelligence (ABI) or Pattern of Life analysis.
• Experience developing, improving, and documenting analytical methodologies.
• Experience with Elasticsearch and Kibana.
• Experience working directly with government or mission customers.
• Familiarity with GitLab and the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC).
• Experience with Jupyter Notebooks or Apache Zeppelin.
• Experience supporting intelligence analysts, special operations customers, or related mission environments.

Clearance & Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for this position, candidates must be U.S. Citizens and currently possess the required active U.S. Government security clearance. Employment in a cleared position is contingent upon verification and maintenance of the required clearance.

Why Join Data Machines?

At Data Machines, you'll work alongside some of the industry's brightest engineers on challenging, mission-critical programs that directly support national security. We foster a collaborative environment where innovation, continuous learning, and technical excellence are encouraged. Whether you're building cloud infrastructure, automating deployments, or securing large-scale platforms, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while growing your career.

Compensation will be determined based on the selected candidate's education, experience, skills, and other relevant qualifications.