Insights Data Scientist

The Opportunity We are seeking an Insights Data Scientist / Senior Insights Analyst to join our team on a contract basis. This role is designed for a data professional who excels at the intersection of technical rigor and strategic storytelling. You will be responsible for translating complex datasets into the "so what" that drives high-stakes decisions in advertising, public affairs, and strategic communications. Reporting directly to the Co-Founder/CEO at an early stage startup, you will play a pivotal role in shaping our analytical offerings. We are open to mid-career or more senior-level applications. This engagement begins at 10 hours per week, offering a flexible entry point with a clear pathway to transition into a full-time role as our operations scale. Key Responsibilities • Data Extraction & Transformation: Write clean, efficient SQL and Python scripts to pull and prepare data from diverse sources. • Analysis & Modeling: Develop analytical frameworks to measure campaign impact, audience sentiment, and market trends. • Reporting Infrastructure: Build and maintain sophisticated tracking tools in Excel and Google Sheets for internal teams and clients. • Strategic Visualization: Transform raw data into compelling, "client-ready" presentations that tell a clear story and provide actionable strategic recommendations. • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with strategists and engineers to ensure data insights are technically sound and perfectly aligned with broader business goals. Technical Requirements • Python Expert: Proficiency in data manipulation and visualization (pandas, NumPy, Matplotlib, Seaborn, etc.). • Advanced SQL: Ability to write complex queries and navigate relational databases with ease. • Spreadsheet Power User: High-level expertise in Excel and Google Sheets (pivot tables, complex formulas, and automation). • Presentation Skills: Proven ability to present technical findings to non-technical stakeholders via PowerPoint or Google Slides. Preferred Qualifications • Sector Experience: Background in developing analyses for advertising agencies, brand consultancies, public affairs firms or high-profile political campaigns or advocacy organizations. • Industry Metrics: Familiarity with traditional and digital media metrics, specifically Reach, Frequency, and GRPs and/or familiarity with quantitative public opinion research. • Management Experience: Proven track record of leading projects and mentoring junior analysts/technical staff. • Location: Candidates based in the DC Metro area for hybrid collaboration are strongly preferred. Why Join Us? • Direct Impact: Work closely with a startup company’s leadership with the opportunity to influence narratives for high-profile clients. • Flexibility: Remote-first workflow with the benefit of local hybrid collaboration in DC. • Growth Potential: While a contract position, this is a long-term partnership opportunity with a path to a full-time leadership position. • Compensation: This is a contract role with an hourly rate based on demonstrated expertise and ability to work independently. Exceptional candidates may command rates of up to $150/hour.