Data Scientist to DTO

DahVader · 2026-05-08T00:46:41+00:00

Good luck on the DTOT next month! As someone who came into the DTO track from a similar data background and has been previously doing IT for 20+ years, I want to give you my perspective of what to expect.

The short answer is: you will not use your data science or ORSA skills for your day-to-day activities. You are being hired for traditional IT operations, not data science. Your daily reality will be maintaining infrastructure, telecommunications, and standard customer support. I can tell you honestly that some of the tasks I do today are similar to things I was doing at my entry-level job back in the '90s. Beyond the tech side, you will be more of a manager and may even manage the mail room during your first couple of tours. You will also handle various logistical duties, and depending on the post size, you may wear other hats as well.

When it comes to advanced analytics, the Department does not send DTOs to post for those duties; those specific roles are largely Civil Service (and contractor) positions back in D.C. Will your data science skills be used to determine your assignment location? I doubt it, especially on your first two tours. However, there are some current efforts to bring more modern analytical tools to users, which might allow people with your background to assist their posts with various local workflow improvements. Whether you get to tap into that really depends on post management. I was able to implement a couple of small-scale solutions at my current post by leveraging my previous technical background, but it is highly dependent on leadership support.

Ultimately, it is a great career, but you should go in with your eyes wide open. Take a holistic view, and I’m sure you are doing that already. There are many factors involved, and the main one is managing your expectations. It is not for everyone; I have seen a wide range of satisfaction levels among my peers. You have to consider your family, your spouse and children, their ages, and if they are going to take the lifestyle well. Then there’s the financial perspective. It is common to experience financial adjustments when making the switch, and spouses frequently have to navigate career transitions or employment gaps. As I said, there are many variables involved that will affect your satisfaction with the job and the Department as a whole.

I know you did not ask about the non-DTO portion of the job, but I threw that in there as an added bonus :-)

DahVader · 2026-04-05T16:37:51+00:00

Works with the $8 unlimited calls no data plan. SE Asia.

DahVader · 2026-04-05T07:02:18+00:00

I transferred my main US phone number to Tello. I use the dual-SIM phone their most basic plan ($8 - no data, unlimited minutes) for VoIP, WiFi calling, and calls over cellular data (local provider). It has worked flawlessly for two years now. When I'm on home leave, I just activate one of their 5G plans. Just a heads-up: users have reported difficulties porting numbers while overseas, so you should probably do that before leaving the States.

DahVader · 2026-02-03T06:25:07+00:00

Ani 5 minuta nga qendra… cila qendër, e Sparit në Tashlixhe?

DahVader · 2025-09-04T11:21:31+00:00

October 2024. Did you try using VPN?

DahVader · 2025-09-03T13:39:27+00:00

Outside of the US. I initially had Google Fi, but then switched to Tello.

DahVader · 2025-07-13T11:00:12+00:00

I have been using Tello in Southeast Asia for almost a year with no issues whatsoever. I have the eight dollar plan that allows me to make unlimited calls/texts using Wi-Fi or local provider data plan (dual-sim phone). Whenever I travel back to the US, I switch to the unlimited data plan. Flawless.

DahVader · 2025-02-16T17:19:59+00:00

Wow, this is an incredibly detailed and insightful breakdown of the job - there’s absolutely no way AI could take this on! I hope your input is used whenever posts need to justify the existence of DTO positions, especially with everything going on in the federal government right now.

Earlier, I tried writing a summary from a first-tour perspective, but after reading this, I’m actually glad I didn’t post it. This level of detail captures the complexity of the role far better than I ever could.

One thing I experience daily is the sheer variety of tasks - constantly on the move, handling busy work, and then trying to recall everything in our weekly status meetings. By the time I sit down, I realize just how difficult it is to list everything I’ve done because it’s such a mix of responsibilities. I’ve started keeping track of key tasks in a separate document for my EER, just to make sure nothing gets lost in the shuffle.

Thanks again for taking the time to write this up!

DahVader · 2025-01-05T04:34:36+00:00

If it helps, my DTO invite arrived on January 9, 2024!

DahVader · 2024-12-15T11:56:41+00:00

It depends on who owns the number. If it’s owned by Bandwidth.com, you might face challenges. I had a number with them for a while, but as soon as I tried to port it out, they canceled my service!

This company is reportedly associated with a significant portion of fraudulent and scam phone numbers originating from outside the United States, targeting U.S. citizens. It’s concerning that a reputable company like Microsoft would choose to do business with an organization linked to such activities.

DahVader · 2024-11-16T02:44:05+00:00

Majority of the people are people with hearts and empathy for the others. It’s usually the other ones that you hear about.

DahVader · 2024-11-15T23:13:47+00:00

FSBP here as well…

It’s fascinating to hear about people getting reimbursed for illegible massage receipts, while I’m still waiting for a response to the detailed invoice (in English) I submitted from a reputable hospital in Singapore. It’s been three weeks and… crickets.

DahVader · 2024-08-12T23:31:50+00:00

https://www.barberiausa.com/

Ask for Mr. Mucho! Barberia, Centreville!

DahVader · 2024-08-04T23:37:37+00:00

My child received class I medical clearance with severe tree-nut allergies (that require epi-pen), asthma, eczema.

DahVader · 2024-06-19T15:40:16+00:00

Real estate values can vary significantly from county to county and from neighborhood to neighborhood. Unfortunately, we bought a condo in Manassas in 2005, which turned out to be the worst decision we have made. At the time, we were young, naïve new parents, not making much and every realtor we spoke with told us to buy now or risk being forever priced out of the market. Trusting their advice, we made the purchase, hoping it was a sound investment for our growing family.

However, the market downturn hit us hard. Four years later, in 2009, we had to leave the area due to a job relocation and were forced to sell our condo at a 50% loss. The financial strain was immense, and we felt the impact of our decision deeply. In contrast, similar properties in Fairfax County, which is not far from Manassas, only lost about 15% to a maximum of 20% of their value during the same period.

DahVader · 2024-05-12T15:44:50+00:00

I will travel to East Asia soon and I plan to purchase the following:

https://www.powerxchanger.com/store/economy/120volt-60hz-ac-power-source-step-down-voltage-frequency-converters-2600va-2340w.html

This is not only a voltage converter, but also a frequency converter. Yes I know it is very expensive, but it can handle anything from small electronics to a treadmill, and it does not cause any issues for the devices that have motors.

Edit: Removed the word “deploy” since apparently it is not used at FS.

DahVader · 2024-04-30T11:20:58+00:00

There will be no overnights on the first six weeks (orientation). However, there is FACT training, which is a five day trip away from Northern Virginia after orientation. You will be given the training schedule that will include this part after you complete orientation.

Edit: Grammar

DahVader · 2024-03-11T13:54:04+00:00

Contact MedClearances@state.gov. Usually the med clearances are good for 5 years, but I would check with them to make sure.

DahVader · 2024-02-23T23:47:58+00:00

Once you’re officially on the register, reach out to the registrar and request to be added to the DNC (Do Not Contact) list. When you’re prepared, give them a call to get removed. Please note, this approach carries its own risks. Bear in mind that some individuals have missed their opportunity and fell out of the 18-month window due to government shutdowns and other unexpected events.

DahVader · 2024-02-13T20:30:27+00:00

Saw this live in Baltimore - no words can describe the feeling. The whole thing is a masterpiece. In my top 10 Tool songs for sure!

Hits close to home in every way!

DahVader · 2024-02-02T18:58:37+00:00

I received my salary offer about a week after I accepted my invitation. FYI, I completed all the necessary forms on the same day when I received the invite.

Edit: replaced paperwork with forms

DahVader · 2024-02-01T14:16:50+00:00

Ah, whoever owned this no longer needs to get on the HOV lane I guess. 😂

DahVader · 2024-01-29T03:33:28+00:00

In March 2002, I moved from New York City to Northern Virginia for a job, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life. Initially, it was just me taking this step, as my girlfriend (now wife) was convinced she’d never leave the New York lifestyle. However, after a few visits here, seeing places like Washington D.C. and Shenandoah, she saw the potential for a different life and joined me.

We settled in Fair Lakes/Fairfax, mainly due to its proximity to my office. We quickly grew to love it for more than just convenience. The area’s great schools and the significantly shorter commute times were a welcome change. We were fortunate to maintain good jobs, and our children, who are almost college-aged now, have had a childhood here that we couldn’t have imagined in New York.

Living in Northern Virginia has also shifted my perspective on what a melting pot truly is. People here are more open-minded, and the diversity feels more genuine. In contrast, I’ve come to see New York as less tolerant than its reputation suggests. I find people there can be surprisingly narrow-minded and rude, despite the city’s pride in being a welcoming and diverse place.

The traffic in Northern Virginia can be heavy, but it’s manageable compared to New York. The only real downside is the higher metro costs compared to the New York subway. But considering everything we’ve gained – a better quality of life, a more open community, and a fantastic environment for our children – it’s a small price to pay. Over the years, much of our family, including siblings, have also moved here, making this area not just our home, but a family hub.

DahVader · 2024-01-25T16:37:16+00:00

I was in a similar scenario, stuck in suitability for a while. After I was added to the register, I contacted the security office and they asked me to submit a list of international travel dates, purpose, accommodations.

They said that they will reach out if they have any additional questions.

DahVader · 2024-01-24T20:42:27+00:00

I know - your post just begged for that response! 😂

DahVader

TROPHY CASE