Job description for Senior Data Scientist

Are you ready to take on a pivotal role as a Senior Data Scientist within the Ministry of Defence’s Capability Centres (Battlespace Integration Centre/Defence Engineering Centre/Defence Availability Centre)?

As a senior leader in the data science domain, you will play a crucial part in shaping the overarching strategy across teams and the wider organisation. Your responsibilities will include leading complex exploratory data analysis, developing algorithmic tools, utilising Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence techniques, and presenting actionable insights to stakeholders.

The key selling point of this role lies in the opportunity to lead cutting-edge data science projects within a dynamic and impactful environment, influencing strategic decisions and driving innovation across the Defence sector.

This role offers a unique chance to work at the forefront of data science, collaborating with talented professionals and contributing to high-impact projects that have a direct influence on national security and defence strategies.

For security reasons this role is open to sole UK nationals only. A ‘sole UK national’ refers to an individual who holds citizenship solely in the UK, without dual citizenship or nationality from another country. We’re unable to offer visa sponsorship.

This role requires you to have lived in the UK for the last 5 years and obtain Security Check (SC) security clearance. Clearance must be obtained without any caveats that prevent you from carrying out the role you’ve been recruited for. If it isn’t obtained or is obtained but with caveats that prevent you from carrying out the role, any conditional offer made to you will be withdrawn. Obtaining SC security clearance can be a lengthy process, and we reserve the right to withdraw any conditional offer made if the necessary security clearance isn’t obtained within 12 months.

We champion flexible ways of working. Regular in-person attendance is required to promote the benefits of face-to-face collaboration alongside flexibility of hours to support work-life balance. Initially, you may be expected to attend more frequently to familiarise yourselves with the site, the team, and your role.

Whilst on site, you’ll experience our impressive range of on-site facilities including a restaurant and coffee bistros and free parking. Our sports facilities include a fully equipped gym and sports hall with bookable classes, as well as tennis courts and a squash court.

 What you’ll be doing

• Contribute as a senior leader to the overarching strategy across teams and the wider organisation.
• Lead development and delivery of algorithmic tools and solutions to complex business problems.
• Lead the utilisation of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence techniques drawing insights from data.
• Present findings in a clear and concise manner, tailored to your audience.
• Translate technical expertise and complex data findings into understandable and actionable insights.
• Champion Data Science and applied methodologies across DE&S, supporting business engagement activity on behalf of IMIT Profession.

Person specification

To be successful with your application, you’ll need to show that you meet the following essential criteria:

• Possession of an Undergraduate/Postgraduate Degree in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Mathematical Science, OR equivalent experience.
• Significant experience with Data Science languages & tools such as Python, R, and Cloud-based solutions.
• Ability to demonstrate a track record of delivering Data Mining, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, and/or Natural Language based solutions.
• Experience in researching and assisting in the implementation of cutting-edge Data Science tools and techniques.
• Proficiency in Agile Development practices, including delivering data science products through iterative build & testing, and enabling effective deployment and adoption.

In addition to the responsibilities above, the following technical competences and behaviours will be assessed at interview:

• MI & Analytics – Expert
• Development & Implementation – Expert
• Delivering at Pace – CSBC 4
• Communicating and Influencing – CSBC 4

Benefits

Alongside your salary of £62,800, Ministry of Defence contributes £18,193 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.

• 25 days’ annual leave +1 day a year up to 30 days, 8 bank holidays and a day off for the King’s birthday
• Flexible and hybrid working options
• Market-leading employer pension contribution of around 28.97%
• Annual performance-based bonus and recognition awards
• Access to specialist training and funded professional qualifications
• Support for progression
• Huge range of discounts
• Volunteering days
• Enhanced parental leave schemes

Improving innovation and enriching our culture, diversity of thought is vital to our success. So, whether you’re looking for a new opportunity, a next step, or a helping hand as you return from a career break, bring your experiences, and help deliver for the defence of tomorrow. Here you’ll find a supportive, family-friendly organisation to be a part of – and if you need any assistance with your application, just let us know.

Further Information

• Candidate Information Pack: https://bit.ly/DES-Candidate-Information-Pack
• Terms and Conditions: https://bit.ly/DES-SDA-Terms-and-Conditions

Things you need to know

Selection process details

Your application will go through the following stages of assessment:

1. Pre-sift – We will check that you meet any essential or eligibility criteria that are listed in the Person Specification section of this advert. On your CV, please clearly show how you meet the essential criteria.
2. Sift – Your CV will be assessed against the following categories, using a simple numerical scoring system: Key Achievements; Relevant Experience; Applied Knowledge and Skills. Please follow our guidance on CV writing for best chance of success.
3. Interview – If you’re invited to interview, you’ll be assessed against the Sift categories listed above, as well as the Technical Competences and Behaviours listed in the Person Specification section of this advert.

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.