Data Scientist - Mid Level

Moffatt & Nichol specializes in large complex waterfront infrastructure projects and is recognized as one of the worldwide leaders in this field. We are actively looking for a Data Scientist to join our Costa Mesa, CA office. As a successful Data Scientist, you will have 4 to 6 years of hands-on experience to perform exploratory data analysis and develop machine-learning models that drive data-informed decisions. This role requires strong analytical thinking, solid Machine Learning (ML) fundamentals, and the ability to translate business or operational problems into data science solutions.

We are seeking a curious, self-driven professional who is motivated by building solutions that deliver meaningful, real-world impact. You will join a collaborative, high-energy team that values learning, continuous improvement, and thoughtful problem-solving. We value individuals with a growth mindset, people who are comfortable navigating ambiguity, do not expect to have all the answers on day one, and genuinely enjoy learning and solving problems together.

In this role, you will operate within a rapidly evolving AI/ML (artificial intelligence/machine learning) landscape, gaining hands-on exposure to emerging tools, technologies, and best practices. You will be part of a supportive, forward-thinking team that shares ideas openly, challenges each other constructively, and cares deeply about building solutions that make a real difference.

About Moffatt & Nichol:

Moffatt & Nichol is a leading U.S.-based global infrastructure advisor specializing in the planning and design of facilities that shape and serve our coastlines, harbors and rivers, as well as an innovator in transportation. For the 4th year in a row, Moffatt & Nichol is Ranked #1 in Engineering News-Record for Marine & Port Facilities in the U.S. Additionally, our firm consistently ranks in the Top 100 Pure Designers in the US and the Top 50 Designers in International Markets.

Moffatt & Nichol's professional staff includes engineers, planners, scientists and architects who serve our global client base from offices in Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Pacific Rim. The firm provides clients worldwide with customized service and a level of excellence that have become the firm's hallmark in several primary practice areas - ports and harbors; coastal, environmental and water resources; urban waterfronts and marinas; transportation, bridges and rail; inspection and rehabilitation; and energy.

Duties and responsibilities:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Perform exploratory data analysis (EDA) to uncover patterns, anomalies, and actionable insights
• Design, develop, and evaluate machine-learning models (e.g., regression, classification, clustering, time series)
• Conduct feature engineering, model selection, and hyperparameter tuning
• Validate models using appropriate metrics and ensure robustness and interpretability
• Translate business problems into data science workflows and solutions
• Communicate findings through clear visualizations, reports, and presentations
• Collaborate with data engineers, software engineers, and domain experts to develop models
• Contribute to best practices in coding, experimentation, and documentation

Other duties:

Please note this job posting is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Qualifications:

• 4 to 6 years of professional experience as a Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer or in a closely related role; required
• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Engineering, or a related field; required
• Strong proficiency in Python (e.g., pandas, NumPy, scikit-learn, TensorFlow, Keras matplotlib/seaborn); required
• Solid understanding of statistics, probability, and machine-learning algorithms; required
• Experience performing structured EDA on real-world, messy datasets; required
• Knowledge of ML lifecycle tools (e.g., MLflow, Airflow, Docker); required
• Experience working with SQL and relational databases; required
• Ability to explain complex analytical results in a clear, business-focused manner; required
• Experience with model deployment or production ML workflows; desired
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (Azure or AWS); desired
• Experience with time-series data, forecasting, or optimization problems; desired
• Domain experience in infrastructure, engineering, logistics, or operations; desired
• All new hires will be required to successfully complete and pass a pre-employment (post offer) background check in compliance with NIST 800-171
• Moffatt & Nichol uses E-Verify and employment is contingent upon the legal ability to obtain employment in the U.S. and to present the required documentation at hire

Physical requirements:

Work is generally performed in an office setting. Ability to use standard office equipment is required. Some light/occasional travel between offices may be required.

Base salary range:

$107,000 to $131,000 based on years of experience, level of education obtained, professional registration, and meeting the required qualifications in the job description.

Base salary range only applicable for candidates who will be hired and working in the California market.

Moffatt & Nichol's Employment Benefits:

At Moffatt & Nichol, we genuinely care about our team and strive to create a warm, welcoming environment. We're excited to offer a range of great benefits and cover many costs to support you. Here are some highlights:

• Enjoy low-cost employee healthcare with our company-paid high-deductible medical, dental, and vision plans
  • Family coverage is available
  • Low-deductible plan available
• Generous HSA match to help manage healthcare expenses
• Stay energized with our amazing Wellness Program (with financial incentives) to keep you healthy and fit
  • Features include: monthly one-on-one sessions with nutritionists, access to a Healthwise Pharmacist, mindfulness apps like The Calm and BetterHelp, and more
• Free and confidential Employee Assistance Programs for counseling and support
• Generous Paid time off (15 to 25 days based on experience level), Paid Holidays (7), and a floating holiday
• 401(k) match to help you reach your financial goals
• Excellent Life Insurance coverage, fully paid by the company
• You may also have the option to further your education with our comprehensive Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Plus, there are plenty of training opportunities, a Leadership Development Program, a formal Mentoring program, an active YP (Young Professionals) group, and so much more
• And because we care about all members of your family, we offer Pet Insurance to look after your furry friends

Moffatt & Nichol's EEO Statement:

As a global business, Moffatt & Nichol relies on diversity of culture and thought to deliver on our goal of Creative People, Practical Solutions serving our client needs, and ensures nondiscrimination in all activities in accordance with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. We draw from the world's best and brightest, regardless of geographic, cultural, or institutional background. This approach enables us to better understand and serve our clients, foster innovation, and create a rich, collaborative work environment. Moffatt & Nichol is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity / Federal Contractor desiring priority referrals of all protected veterans for job openings.

EEO is the LAW

If you need more information or require special assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, please contact Human Resources at (562) 590-6500 or TTY/TDD users please call 711.