Data Science Associate

Are you a curious, forwardthinkingdata scientist, analyst or researcherwho loves connecting the dots between data, humanbehaviorandnew analytical frameworks? APCO is seeking aData Science Associateto push the boundaries of what modern digital research and AI-powered intelligence can deliver to clients navigating complex communications,reputationand publicaffairs challenges.In this role,you’lluse advanced digital research, audience intelligence, and nextgeneration AI tools to help organizations understand what matters, why it matters, and how to act.You’lldig into the forces shaping reputation and policy—from stakeholder sentiment and elite opinion trends to issues emergence, communications and reputation measurement, risk acceleration, influencer networks, and digital community dynamics. You'll partner closely with strategists, creatives, and APCO’s engineering team to design new analytical approaches, pilot novel AI methodologies, and bring insightdriven work to life.The ideal candidate is an analyst or researcher with strong instincts for digital patterns, comfort working with complex datasets, and genuine excitement aboutAI’s promise to improve research capabilities. You are a strategic thinker, a clear communicator, and someone who loves turning information into insight—and insight into action.Key ResponsibilitiesInsight & ResearchConduct digital and social media analysis toanalyze communications impact anduncover conversation drivers, audience behavior, influencers, risks, and opportunitiesfor clients across multiple sectors.Synthesize data into clear narratives and recommendations that inform communications strategy, stakeholder engagement, and campaign measurement.Explore and test emerging AI-enabled research methods, from advanced text analytics to automated monitoring workflows.AIEnhanced Analysis & Technical ExplorationUse AI platforms (LLMs, Python-based tooling, text analytics suites, generative AI) to enhance insights and speed in client deliverables.Support the development of lightweight data pipelines, agenticworkflows, or automated analysis tasks that improve team efficiency.Collaborate with APCO’s engineering team in Dubai to pilot new methodologies, test prototypes, and integrate new tools into client work.Client PartnershipWork directly with clients to understand challenges and translate insights into actionable strategies.Operate confidently in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities and quick-turn deadlines.Foster strong relationships with internal teams, as well as external clients.Desired QualificationsBachelor’s degreein data science, analytics, or a related quantitative or technical field; degrees in communications or social sciences also welcomed withdemonstratedanalytical experience3–5 yearsof experience in digital analytics,media measurement,social listening, online research, or related fields, preferably in the fields ofcommunications,media,marketing,consultingorpublic affairsspacesStrong experience withmedia monitoringplatforms (e.g.,Talkwalker,Brandwatch, Meltwater, Sprinklr).Comfortable analyzing bothquantitative and qualitativedatasets.Stronginterpersonal skills, and willingness to partner with a wide variety of internal and external stakeholdersCuriosity and hands-on interest inAI tools, data workflows, automation, or agent development—no need to be an engineer, but genuine enthusiasm is essential, as training will be provided.Strong writer and storyteller with the ability to translate complex data into meaningful insight.Compensation Range:The US base salary for this position ranges from $71,000/year to $81,000/year. Our compensation range for this role is inclusive of several US geographic markets. APCO targets an employee's pay within this range to be based on several factors, which include but are not limited to relevant education, skills, job-related knowledge, qualifications, work experience, credentials, internal equity and/or geographic location.Careers at APCOThrough our recruitment, hiring and retention efforts, APCO is committed to building teams who bring the best possible expertise and robust perspectives to our clients. We embrace differences in experience, viewpoint and ideas, starting with our values and extending to our behaviors, policies and practices. We aim to create a positive work experience and welcoming environment where everyone feels they belong and can thrive.We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, national origin, citizenship, native language, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, religion, age, veteran status, neurodivergence, mental or physical disability, medical history, pregnancy, political belief or affiliation or any other characteristic protected by law.EOE M/F/V/DJob InfoJob Identification 1582Job Category ResearchPosting Date 02/12/2026, 08:25 PMLocations 1299 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington,