Senior Statistical Data Scientist

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is the UK’s largest producer of official statistics, covering a range of key economic, social and demographic topics. These include measuring changes in the value of the UK economy, estimating the size, geographic distribution, and characteristics of the population, and providing indicators of price inflation, employment, earnings, crime, and migration.

Part of the National Statistician’s Office, the National Statistician’s Analysis Unit (NSAU) conducts policy-relevant analysis for stakeholders from across ONS and other government departments. Researchers process and analyse data, often linking across surveys and administrative data sources such as ONS Census data and health and employment records. Analysts then produce statistical outputs and rapid response policy analysis using this data. The NSAU also supports business areas across the ONS and the broader Government Statistical Service (GSS) with analytical work that is methodological in nature, leading to improved quality of analysis outputs.

Job Description

The purpose of the Senior Statistical Data Scientist role is to code, manipulate, model and analyse data, report on findings in technical outputs, apply/develop innovative analytical methods, and/or develop data processes in the division.

In this role you will contribute to high-quality, policy-relevant analysis using a range of data sources and innovative analytical methods and models (both within ONS and across the broader GSS). You will contribute to development of reproducible analytical pipelines (RAP) to efficiently produce consistent and accurate datasets and statistics.

Key Responsibilities

• Be responsible for multiple aspects of statistical production/research or data science analytical projects
• Ensure analytical reproducibility, transparency and collaboration across the team
• Support the team in areas such as transformation and technical projects, taking the lead on delegated projects when required
• Apply advanced statistical and data science techniques to develop policy relevant analysis and/or improvements to current analytical methods
• Ability to respond to problems in datasets, data processes, data products and services as they occur
• Lead the development of technical and research papers and publications on the ONS website and for submission to peer reviewed journals
• Engage with stakeholders in ONS, other government departments, charities and academia to understand requirements, present results, advise on best-practice methodologies, and promote the work of the team
• Contribute to the development of funding bids to support new projects
• Potential for line management and/or matrix management of one or more analyst

Person specification

• Experience of using a range of data science and statistical techniques including knowledge of the assumptions, strengths, and limitations.
• Strong programming skills (ideally in R and/or Python) for the preparation and analysis of large datasets with experience implementing best practice, including version control and knowledge of RAP principles.
• Experience of managing the delivery of complex projects, prioritising tasks in line with organisational objectives.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate complex analysis to both specialists and non-specialists, and contribute effectively to discussions with senior officials and external stakeholders.
• Ability to develop others and share knowledge.

Qualifications

There are two eligibility routes for applicants:

Qualifications Route

To apply you should have:

•  a first- or second-class honours degree (2:2 minimum) in a numerate subject containing taught statistical content (e.g. Statistics, Data Science, Mathematics, Economics, Sciences, Psychology, Geography,).

OR

•  a higher degree, for example MSc or PhD, in a subject containing formal statistical training (e.g. Statistics, Data Science, Mathematics, Economics, Sciences, Psychology, Geography).

Experience route

Alternatively You Could Apply If You

•  have worked in a statistical or data science field and are able to demonstrate Continuous Professional Development (via a logbook) covering a minimum of three years. You will need to evidence how you applied statistics or data science at the same level as a foundation degree or HND (level five) and demonstrates the expected skills as outlined in the GSG Competency framework.

Behaviours

We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

• Working Together
• Changing and Improving
• Delivering at Pace

Technical skills

We'll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process:

• Programming and Computing
• Data Analysis
• Acquiring Data and Understanding Customer Needs
• Presenting and Disseminating Data Effectively