Data Scientist

AQA Education; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 43,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational organization is seeking a Data Scientist to lead innovative AI solutions in Manchester. This role involves developing data-driven strategies, managing projects, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in Python and machine learning. A supportive work environment offering 25 days of holiday and professional development awaits you.

Benefits

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Enhanced contributory pension scheme

Comprehensive health coverage

Opportunities for professional development

Qualifications

• Experience developing applications using Python and version control tools.
• Broad knowledge of databases and data structures.
• Understanding of machine learning, NLP, and deep learning is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of advanced solutions using data science and AI.
• Scope, lead, and manage data science projects aligned with AQA's innovation.
• Communicate complex technical outcomes to stakeholders.

Skills

Python development

Machine learning

NLP

Data structures

Excellent communication

Analytical thinking

Job description

At AQA were committed to advancing education and were committed to our people. As the largest provider of academic qualifications in the UK we mark over 10 million exam papers each year and its our people who make this happen.

Data Scientist

Permanent

Manchester : 43650 - 49664

Hybrid 2x days a week in the office

Introduction

AQAs is leading the educational assessment world with ethical AI solutions which ensure to never let a learner down. Youll be joining a forward-thinking team at AQA where innovation meets impact. This is your chance to shape the future of assessment through cutting-edge data science and AI solutions. Youll be part of a collaborative environment alongside other value-driven data scientists and technical staff who prize creativity experimentation and continuous improvement. Whether youre developing new models or exploring emerging technologies your work will help transform how we deliver assessments and support learners. This is a role where your ideas will be heard your expertise will be valued and your contributions will make a real difference

Purpose of the role

Youll lead the development of advanced solutions leveraging cutting-edge data science and AI that enhance business performance and support AQAs strategic goals working closely with colleagues all across AQA. From Python applications to bespoke AI services within wider solutions your work will help deliver meaningful insights and drive innovation across the organisation and the wider assessment world. Your expertise will help shape the direction of AQAs innovation programme ensuring that our use of data and technology remains at the forefront of the education sector presenting your work at international conferences. This role is central to our ambition to lead digital change and create assessment solutions that are fair accessible and future-ready.

Key responsibilities

• Scoping leading and managing data science projects aligned with AQAs innovation and AI workstreams.
• Communicating complex technical outcomes to senior and non-technical stakeholders through presentations and demonstrations.

What we are looking for

• Experience developing applications using Python and version control tools.
• Broad knowledge of databases and data structures with a willingness to learn AQAs systems.
• Understanding of machine learning NLP deep learning and large language models would be beneficial
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to think analytically and creatively to solve complex problems.

Whats in it for you

• This role offers a unique opportunity to make a real impact while growing your career in a supportive and innovative environment.
• Work on high-impact projects that shape the future of assessment.
• Opportunities for professional development and attending industry conferences.
• A 35-hour weekand a flexible working culture.
• 25 days holiday rising to 30 with service plus bank holidays and additional Christmas closure.
• An enhanced contributory pension scheme you could pay in 7% and AQA contributes 11.5% (other options available).
• Comprehensive health coveragefrom day one including Bupa PMI Health Cash Plan and Life Assurance.
• Access to eco-friendly transport schemes including cycle to work and electric vehicle leasing.
• Strong commitment to personal and professional development.

Diversity and inclusion statement

At AQA we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyoneregardless of religion ethnicity gender identity or expression age disability sexual orientation or backgroundis valued respected and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language avoid stereotypes and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.

Application process

To apply please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role. Application deadline : Tuesday 30th September. Interviews will be conducted in Manchester on the 9th / 10th October and onboarding will begin shortly after.

Recruitment Agencies

We have a preferred supplier list (PSL) in place.

Unsolicited CVs will be treated as a gift. We will not be subject to or liable under your terms and conditions for agency fees.

Full Job Description

Summary

The role devises and develops advanced data science solutions for the business. This could include Python applications insights through data mining and bespoke AI services that improve or enhance business performance assessment functioning and projects which deliver for AQAs innovation programme.

Activities

Scope lead and manage data science projects related to AQAs innovation and AI workstreams

Develop at pace and deliver front-end and back-end applications proof-of-concepts and insights powered by AI or machine learning

Provide proactive advice and guidance to colleagues on AI and data science related issues and how these may relate to their work

Build effective working relationships with internal colleagues influencing thinking in relation to AI and data science solutions

Communicate through presentations and demonstrations complex technical information applications outcomes to senior and non-technical stakeholders.

Provide comprehensive and user-friendly data intelligence to users as required

Represent the team on AQA and external groups sharing insights to inform and support decision making

Contribute to a motivated and positive team culture focused on delivery and continuous improvement

Ensure that projects meet business needs flexibly responsively and to agreed time cost and quality criteria

Develop knowledge of approaches to AI and data science ensuring that all work uses appropriate methods reviewing the impact of approaches taken by similar organisations

Work with others to achieve the organisation and team vision modelling AQAs values and behaviours contributing expertise and developing self to achieve excellence

To be successful in this role you will need to know

Understanding of key data science concepts including machine learning natural language processing deep learning large language models and cluster analysis

Knowledge and experience of developing applications and proofs of concepts using Python or other programming languages including use of version control in contexts such as data mining machine learning or pattern recognition

A broad understanding of databases data structures and their interrogation including a willingness to acquire a detailed knowledge and understanding of AQAs databases

Strong interpersonal and communication skills able to build rapport with a diverse range of stakeholders

Ability to understand stakeholder requirements and translate those into actionable tasks

The ability to think analytically to understand and synthesise complex diverse and incomplete information and to present reasoned arguments

The ability to interpret complex quantitative and qualitative information to support sound decision making

Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

Ability and willingness to constructively challenge the thinking of others

Ability to think creatively and solve complex problems

Ability to assess risk and recommend actions

Key Skills

Laboratory Experience,Immunoassays,Machine Learning,Biochemistry,Assays,Research Experience,Spectroscopy,Research & Development,cGMP,Cell Culture,Molecular Biology,Data Analysis Skills

Employment Type : Full-Time

Experience : years

Vacancy : 1

Monthly Salary Salary : 43650 - 49664