Senior Data Scientist

Join Kforce's client's cutting-edge Data Science and Machine Learning Capability Center (CC) within the Information, Data and Analytics (IDA) team in Houston, TX. This role is part of a high-impact innovation program in collaboration with NVIDIA, focusing on scalable HPC-AI applications, with a direct tie to business-critical scientific computing (e.g., seismic imaging).

Summary:As a Senior Data Scientist, you'll drive the development, deployment, and lifecycle management of production-grade AI/ML solutions. You'll work on full-stack data science tools and multimodal LLMs, with the infrastructure to scale-from on-prem HPC compute to cloud burst capacity.

About the Project:This position supports the innovation initiative under the GenAI R&D and HPC Program. The goal is to deepen the client's competitive edge in AI-driven scientific computing by developing scalable models and tools that accelerate R&D workflows and insights.

The role is funded through a multi-year investment in:

• On-premises and cloud-based HPC compute infrastructure
• High-performance storage and toolsets
• Dedicated AI/ML staffing to deliver next-generation digital solution

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and operationalize advanced AI/ML models, especially in deep learning, reinforcement learning, and multimodal LLMs
• Build full-stack data science applications deployed at scale across digital platforms
• Convert R&D prototypes into scalable, production-ready solutions
• Collaborate with research and engineering teams to deliver impactful GenAI tools and models
• Adhere to software quality, digital assurance, and MCDS quality initiative standards (health checks, code reviews, audits)
• Evaluate new data science opportunities and contribute to internal communities of excellence (CoEs, CoPs)* Ph.D. (preferred) or Master's degree in a STEM field
• Mastery in Machine Learning, Statistical Modeling, and Exploratory Data Analysis
• Deep expertise in Deep Learning and Reinforcement Learning
• Proficient in PyTorch or TensorFlow
• Strong core programming skills (e.g., Python)
• Knowledge of AI Engineering essentials, DevOps, and Agile methodologies
• Hands-on experience with cloud deployment frameworks and infrastructure/tooling (e.g., Azure, AWS, or GCP)

Bonus Skills (Nice-to-Have):

• Exposure to HPC Compute and Storage, Scientific Data Tools
• Expected to convert R&D prototypes into production-ready tools
• Must demonstrate strong ML/AI technical mastery and the ability to work cross-functionally with the company's scientific research and engineering teams
• Familiarity with Information Management, Data Governance, and Value Mapping
• Understanding of regulatory and compliance frameworks
• Experience collaborating with external research partners or vendors (e.g., NVIDIA)

What You'll Gain:

• Opportunity to work with cutting-edge AI research and global innovation leaders
• Exposure to real-world scientific and engineering challenges in energy exploration
• A collaborative, intellectually rich environment with support for continuous learning
• Ability to shape scalable digital products with industry impact