Role:Lead Data Scientist

Location:Bristol | Hybrid – 3 days WFH a week

Role Type:Permanent

Salary:£80k to £90k, depending on experience

About the Client:

Based in Bristol, the client is a dynamic data science and technology company. Acquired by the biggest & most influential player in their sphere in 2020, they retain their independent identity while accessing a wealth of opportunities within the broader parent’s ecosystem. As a leader in data-driven decision support for the UK Defence, Commercial, and Public sectors, they specialise in engineering, logistics supply chain, finance, and personnel.

Role Overview:

Forming part of a new team, as the Lead Data Scientist you will coordinate this team, looking after the technical aspects & work across diverse projects. Your responsibilities will also include:

• Translating business challenges into testable hypotheses and conducting detailed analysis.
• Applying advanced machine learning techniques and delivering actionable insights.
• Engaging in projects ranging from data exploration and visualisation to building algorithms for integration into software and creating data pipelines.
• Exploring and adopting new tools and methodologies in secure customer environments.

Required Skills and Experience:

• A degree or equivalent practical experience in a numerate field (e.g., maths, physics, economics, or engineering).
• Proficiency in statistical and machine learning techniques for complex datasets.
• Strong programming and data handling skills, particularly in Python or similar languages.
• Proven experience in developing data science solutions from proof of concept to implementation.
• Expertise in deep learning, neural networks, and working with unstructured data (e.g., text, images, video).
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience leading teams in a data / data science setting

Desirable Skills:

• Experience with Python frameworks such as Django or Flask.
• Familiarity with DevOps practices and infrastructure preparation.
• Knowledge of Agile project methodologies.
• Proficiency with relational databases (e.g., SQL, Oracle).
• Defence industry experience.
• Competence in BI tools such as PowerBI or Tableau.
• Familiarity with version control (e.g., Git) and CI/CD development practices.

Rewards and Benefits:

Our client values hard work and believes in rewarding it, their comprehensive benefits include:

• Competitive salary with performance-related bonuses.
• Contributory pension scheme.
• 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Life insurance (6x salary).
• Share Incentive Plan.
• Generous sick pay.
• Enhanced parental leave benefits.
• Flex Benefit programme.
• Regular team socials and perks such as free daily fruit at the office.

Security Clearance:Given the nature of some of the work involved, the ability to obtain Security Clearance is essential, as well as having a British Passport