Data Scientist

DWP Digital; Lancashire; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

A government digital agency in the UK is seeking a Data Scientist to work with large datasets to uncover insights and support health services transformation. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic background in Data Science, experience in Python and SQL, and the ability to deliver impactful analytical projects. This role offers competitive pay, flexible hybrid working, and a comprehensive benefits package focused on work-life balance.

Benefits

Up to £55,091 pay

28.9% employer pension contributions

26 days of leave with flexi-time

Flexible working policies

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Strong academic background in Data Science or equivalent experience.
• Ability to write code in Python and SQL.
• Experience using data science techniques to solve problems.

Responsibilities

• Analyze large datasets to uncover insights.
• Collaborate across disciplines to support service transformation.
• Deliver complex analytical projects on time.

Skills

Data Science knowledge

Python coding

SQL coding

Stakeholder engagement

Proactive insight generation

Education

Degree in Data Science, Maths, Statistics, or Computer Science

Job description

Overview

As a Data Scientist, you'll work with some of the UK's largest datasets to uncover insights, test hypotheses, and support service transformation. You'll apply techniques like NLP, machine learning, and data visualisation to influence policy and improve health services. Collaborating across disciplines in an inclusive, supportive environment, you'll be part of a team driving evidence-based change. You’ll be part of the Health Transformation Programme, supporting the delivery of Personal Independence Payments (PIP) and Health Assessment services. You’ll analyse large datasets to uncover insights, test hypotheses, and evaluate features, using natural language processing, machine learning and data visualisation to support service transformation and policy development. You’ll collaborate across disciplines, contribute to cross-cutting initiatives, and receive training and professional development in a family-friendly, inclusive environment.

Responsibilities

• Academic & Professional Foundation - You bring a strong academic background in Data Science, Maths, Statistics, or Computer Science, or equivalent experience applying data science in a business context.
• Coding Skills - You can write code in Python and SQL to support analysis, automation, and data-driven decision-making.
• Applied Data Science - You can use data science techniques to solve problems, optimise processes, and deliver measurable improvements.
• Stakeholder Engagement - You can work closely with stakeholders to understand their needs and deliver complex analytical projects on time and with impact.
• Proactive Insight Generation - You are proactive in spotting opportunities to apply data science to team or organisational priorities, helping drive innovation and efficiency.

About Disability Confident (EEO note)

A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. In certain recruitment situations, the employer may limit overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled and non-disabled people. For more details please go to the official Disability Confident page.

Organisation & Role Context

We are the UK Government Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). We help people into work, and make payments worth over £195bn a year to support vulnerable people in our society. We are looking for a Data Scientist to join our community of tech experts in DWP Digital. We are driving a transformation of government services with fresh ideas and leading-edge technologies to build scalable, user-centric digital solutions used by nearly every person in the UK.

Benefits & Location

• Pay up to £55,091, plus 28.9% employer pension contributions, hybrid working with 60% home working, flexible hours, and great work-life balance.
• Hybrid working in one of our digital hubs in Birmingham, Blackpool, Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle or Sheffield. 60% office / 40% home working.
• Competitive pay and a civil service pension with employer contributions of 28.9%.
• Generous leave package starting at 26 days, with up to 3 extra days off a month on flexi-time.
• Broad benefits package focused on work-life balance, including:
  • Award-winning environment and culture
  • Flexible working and family-friendly policies
  • Time off volunteering and charitable giving
  • Identity and inclusion initiatives (I Can Be Me in DWP)
  • Discounts, savings, and transportation loans
  • Sports and social activities
  • Professional development, coaching, mentoring, and career progression opportunities