Software Measurement and Estimation Data Scientist

About the role

Do you have experience in software estimation and process modeling? Are you a creative problem solver who enjoys seeking solutions to complex challenges? Do you want to help the Department of Defense (DoD) solve its toughest software estimation and measurement challenges? We want to meet you!

The Software Measurement and Analysis (SEMA) team is looking for an analytical, customer-focused expert to help customers determine what software-intensive efforts should cost and to work with high-performing researchers and engineers on research and customer projects that advance the state of the art and the state of the practice of software project management.

As a Software Measurement and Estimation Data Scientist at the SEI, you’ll have the opportunity to work directly with DoD programs, participating on client and research teams that are leading the way in establishing new software estimation and measurement techniques. In this position, you’ll be part of a mission-focused culture of collaboration and transparency, delivering timely, high-quality, high-impact work. You will collaborate with clients and researchers to apply quantitative techniques to assess costs, benefits, and the economic feasibility of alternatives.

What you’ll do

• Continuously improve estimation processes and performance modeling technologies.

• Identify emerging gaps and limitations in the current models as technology changes.

• Develop, improve, and maintain cost estimation models for complex cyber-physical systems and software development projects.

• Develop innovative approaches to detect problems early.

• Collect, analyze, and evaluate historical benchmark data to provide expert opinion as a basis for assumptions and choice of methodologies.

• Collaborate with development, finance, and procurement teams to collect data, align cost estimates with budgetary constraints, and present results.

• Apply descriptive statistical methods and facilitate activities such as the Goal-Question-Indicator-Metric (GQIM) process to help stakeholders and customers identify appropriate measurement and displays.

• Prepare detailed reports and present findings to senior management.

Who you are

• You have experience in software cost estimation and process modeling.

• You are familiar with parametric cost estimation and modeling, such as COCOMO, SEER-SEM, PRICE, or QSM-SLIM. You may have a related certification from ICEAA or the Defense Acquisition University.

• You have a solid understanding of software development lifecycles and methodologies.

• You have financial analysis skills that center on understanding the financial impact of changes to software development costs.

• You have strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• You have strong communication skills, both written and verbal.

• You work effectively independently but also enjoy working with a team.

• You deliver high-quality work and care about the impact of your work.

• You have a bachelor’s degree in statistics, data science, mathematics, or a related quantitative field or discipline with eight (8) years of experience, a master’s degree with five (5) years of experience, or a PhD with two (2) years of experience.

You are able to

• Travel to various locations to support the SEI’s overall mission. This includes within the SEI and CMU community, customer sites, and conferences on occasion (up to 25%).

• Pass a background check and obtain and maintain an active Department of Defense security clearance.

• Legally work for CMU in the United States. CMU will not sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity.

Who we are

The SEI helps advance software engineering principles and practices and serves as a national resource in software engineering, computer security, and artificial intelligence. The SEI works closely with defense and government organizations, industry, and academia to continually improve software-intensive systems. Our core purpose is to help organizations improve software engineering capabilities and develop or acquire the right software, defect free, within budget and on time, every time.

The Software Engineering Measurement and Analysis team is a group of technical professionals and researchers impacting DoD with data-driven decisions that optimize program execution and radically improve research methodology based on the latest advances in data science, data engineering, applied statistics, causal inference, and decision science.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits available to eligible employees.

Those employees who are benefits eligible have the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of advantages from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance to an enticing retirement savings program offering a generous employer contribution. You can also unlock your potential with tuition benefits and take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays. Finally, rest easy knowing you are covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Other perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and so much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits that may be awaiting you, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role and responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique skills and the diverse perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

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