Research Scientist 3

The Swift Group

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College Park, MD on site Until 8/21/2026 12+ years exp First posted May 25, 2026 Last posted May 25, 2026
Job description
Swift is a privately held, mission-driven and employee-focused services and solutions company headquartered in Reston, VA. Our capabilities include Software Development, Engineering & IT, Data Science, Cyber Enablement, Logistics, and Training. Founded in 2019, Swift supports Civilian, Defense, and Intelligence Community customers across the country and around the globe.

We are looking for a Research Scientist to join a dynamic team in College Park, MD.

Research Scientist – Level 3
The Level 3 Research Scientist serves as a senior technical expert, applying advanced scientific principles to drive research, innovation, and long-term technology development. This role requires deep subject matter expertise, leadership in scientific studies, and the ability to guide research efforts that may influence future products and capabilities years ahead of development.
 
Key Responsibilities:
  • Evaluate and provide expert guidance on the application of advanced scientific principles and concepts.
  • Maintain in-depth knowledge of state-of-the-art technologies, theories, and emerging trends across scientific literature, academia, and industry.
  • Plan, design, develop, and execute laboratory research and scientific studies.
  • Conduct feasibility studies to assess potential technologies, methods, and innovations.
  • Apply scientific principles to support the development of potential inventions and products, often years in advance of formal product roadmaps.
  • Coordinate and lead interdepartmental research efforts and collaborative initiatives.
  • Provide technical consultation and subject matter expertise across projects within area of specialization.
  • Contribute to and support the development of intellectual property, including research findings and innovations.
 
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline such as Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Material Science, Physical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or Physics.
  • Minimum of 12 years of relevant experience in the field.
    • A Master’s degree may substitute for 2 years of experience (10 years total required).
    • A PhD may substitute for 4 years of experience (8 years total required).
    • In lieu of a Bachelor’s degree, an additional 4 years of experience may be substituted (16 years total required).
  • Demonstrated expertise in designing and executing complex scientific research and studies.
  • Strong ability to lead research initiatives and collaborate across technical disciplines.
  • Proven experience providing technical leadership and consultation in specialized scientific domains.

The Swift Group and Subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other protected class.

Pay Range: $49,996.80 - $290,004.00
Pay ranges are a general guideline and not intended as a guaranteed and/or implied final compensation or salary for this job opening. Determination of official compensation or salary relies on several different factors including, but not limited to: level of position, complexity of job responsibilities, geographic location, work experience, education, certifications, Federal Government contract labor categories, and contract wage rates. 
At The Swift Group and Subsidiaries, you will receive comprehensive benefits including but not limited to: healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, education, and time off benefits. 

About this role

Summary

Lead scientific research and innovation, guide technological studies, and develop long-term solutions.

Job title

Research Scientist 3

Experience level

12+ years

Minimum experience

12+ years exp

Industry

software

Location requirements

College Park, MD; remote not mentioned

Salary

$50k–$290k

Management role

No

Skills & keywords

Required skills

scientific researchresearch designcollaborationscientific principles

Preferred skills

None specified

Specializations

scientific researchtechnology developmentlaboratory studiesintellectual property
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

College Park, MD, USA

On-site City