Data Lead

i3 is looking for a Data Lead to manage all data-related functions in support of the Missile Defense Agency Information Management and Software Services (AIMSS) contract. This senior-level position provides strategic leadership and operational oversight across multiple data disciplines including data governance, data engineering, data science, mission data management, and analytics.

• Lead all data-related functions under the contract, including governance, mission data management, analytics, and reporting.
• Manage and mentor a cross-functional team of Data Managers, Data Scientists, and Data Analysts to ensure high-quality performance and mission alignment.
• Serve as the senior data advisor to the Program Manager and government stakeholders, providing strategic guidance and operational oversight.
• Oversee the development and execution of Integrated Data Management Plans (IDMPs), Data Handling Plans (DHPs), and lifecycle data processes.
• Implement and enforce data governance policies aligned with DoD and MDA strategies, ensuring data quality, compliance, and secure handling.
• Integrate data initiatives across domains and disciplines to enable decision support, operational readiness, and advanced analytics capabilities.
• Ensure interoperability and consistency across authoritative data sources, metadata standards, and organizational data models.
• Collaborating with Service (IT), Cybersecurity, and Software leads to align data infrastructure and architecture with technical requirements.
• Support readiness for analytics, business intelligence, and AI/ML initiatives by ensuring data accessibility, reliability, and quality.
• Track data operations and metrics; resolve issues related to data quality, classification, delivery, or access.
• Represent the data function at planning events, working groups, and leadership briefings; communicate risks, dependencies, and performance insights.

Education/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems, Operations Research, Computer Science, Engineering, Data Management, or a related field is required.
• Master’s degree in a technical or management discipline preferred.
• 10+ years of experience managing complex data environments, with at least 5 years in a leadership role overseeing multidisciplinary data teams.
• Prior experience supporting DoD programs or government agencies in data-intensive environments is strongly preferred.
• Experience leading data teams in operational, test, or acquisition support for large-scale systems is highly desirable.
• Active Secret clearance required; ability to maintain clearance throughout employment.
• Must reside within a 50-mile radius of Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville AL or be willing to relocate prior to start date.
• Ability to reliably commute to the office as business needs dictate.
• U.S. Citizenship is required.

Knowledge/Skills

• Demonstrated technical depth in one or more relevant fields such as data science, data engineering, operations research, applied statistics, or computer science.
• Hands-on experience designing or overseeing the development of analytics solutions, including statistical modeling, algorithmic workflows, or decision support systems.
• Strong understanding of data governance frameworks, metadata management, and lifecycle data practices aligned with federal or DoD environments.
• Familiarity with mission data management, cross-domain data transfer, and secure data handling practices at multiple classification levels.
• Working knowledge of cloud data platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure), enterprise data architectures, and common analytics toolchains (e.g., Python, R, SQL, Power BI).
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional technical teams and interface with software engineers, system architects, cybersecurity specialists, and mission stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate complex data and technical concepts into actionable insights for senior leaders.
• Experience developing and enforcing policy, managing priorities, and resolving technical issues in dynamic, mission-driven environments.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
• The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• Regular i3 hours are 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, however, additional hours may be required on occasion. Regular and punctual attendance is required

i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.

Perks of being a team member owner include:

• Long-term financial security
• Higher job satisfaction
• Greater job security
• Personal and professional growth
• Great company culture

Other outstanding benefits:

• Excellent insurance coverage
• 401(k) match
• Generous PTO
• Health and wellness incentives
• Tuition and certification reimbursement
• Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!