Data Scientist, GS-1560-13, FPL 13, (Direct Hire) Open Continuous

This position is with the Federal Student Aid (FSA), located in Washington, DC. FSA is the Principal Office of the United States Department of Education responsible for awarding billions of dollars in federal student aid funds. Our vision is to be the most trusted and reliable source of student financial aid, information and services in the nation. Our core values include integrity, customer service, excellence, respect, stewardship and teamwork.

APPLICATION LIMIT: This vacancy announcement will close at 11:59PM Eastern Time on the listed closing date July 24, 2026. We encourage you to read this entire vacancy announcement prior to submitting your application. As a Data Scientist, GS-1560-13, you will be responsible for: Performing analyses and evaluating business requirements and user needs to inform planning and design. Collaborating with subject-matter experts to develop statistical analyses and data analytics using appropriate data sources. Formulating and implementing hypotheses, concepts, and methods to address key challenges within the assigned area. Serving as a technical expert in data science, operations research, master data management, and data analytics or visualization to enhance policy, programs, and operations. Applying a wide range of analytical and scientific methods, including mathematical, statistical, and econometric techniques, to advise on the likely outcomes of various courses of action. Creating presentations and interpretations of statistical analyses and data analytics tailored to specific audiences. Designing interactive dashboards and data stories to encourage exploration of complex issues. Communicating findings and limitations in clear, concise language, aligning conclusions with business needs and the agency's mission. Preparing white papers, briefings, reports, and other required products. Leadership. Identifying and applying advanced statistical and data analytic tools to meet business needs. Trains staff in data analytic techniques. Upholding professional standards, ethics, and best practices in analytics and data communication. Analyzing data trends to support mission goals and providing actionable recommendations. Planning and conducting analytic evaluations to validate findings or test hypotheses.

Condition of Employment: As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you may be required to serve a probationary period or trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: • your performance and conduct; • the needs and interests of the agency; • whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and • whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your probationary period OR trial period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. You must meet all qualification requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this vacancy announcement. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills, and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. We will consider all qualifying experience, including any volunteer experience.