Data Scientist

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Data Scientist

Data scientists play a critical role in the Census Bureau’s efforts to perform efficient, timely, and accurate data analysis. This is done by using transformative efforts, such as data automation, to enhance current processes.

Some examples of how the Census Bureau currently uses data science are:

Applying text analytics and supervised machine learning to predict survey nonresponse through free-form text.
Use artificial intelligence to automate industry code classification.
Developing new linkage algorithms using random forests to match person and business records across data sets.

Data Science Skills

A data scientist uses tools and software to develop data-driven insights that advance and streamline the organization. Data scientists have a mix of key skills and abilities that can range from data visualization and storytelling to advanced math and statistics.

Data Visualization and Storytelling Tableau, QlikView, and MATLAB.
Industry Domain Geospatial analytics specialization; economics specialization; health sector specialization; other industry area specializations.
User Experience/User Interface Developing user stories; utilizing GUI platforms for testing.
Data Engineering and Programming Python, R, Java, ArcGIS, and Machine Learning Techniques (e.g., unsupervised learning algorithms).
Advanced Math and Statistics SPSS, STATA, regression analysis, geospatial analysis.

Data Science Roles

The Census Bureau uses multiple job series to fill data science roles, including the below examples (with minimum education requirements listed).

Data Scientist – 1560: Degree or combination of education and experience in mathematics, statistics, computer science, data science or field directly related to the position. The degree must be in a major field of study (at least at the baccalaureate level) that is appropriate for the position.

Mathematical Statistician – 1529: Degree or combination of education and experience, including at least 24 semester hours in mathematics and statistics (at least 12 hours in mathematics and 6 in statistics).

Survey Statistician – 1530: Degree or combination of education and experience, including at least 15 semester hours in mathematics and statistics (at least 6 hours in statistics).

Economist – 0110: Degree in economics with at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus.

Information Technology (IT) Specialist – 2210: Degree in computer science, engineering, information science, or related field, including at least 24 semester hours in the IT field (Note: some 2210 positions do not have an education requirement).

Computer Scientist – 1550: Degree in computer science or another program another with 30 semester hours in a combination of mathematics, statistics, and computer science courses.

Geographer – 0150: Degree in geography or related physical or social science fields, including at least 24 semester hours in geography or related fields.