Data Scientist - 6 month FTC

Aztec Group; Southampton; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A multi-award-winning alternative fund management leader is seeking an experienced Senior Data Scientist for a six-month contract in Southampton. The role involves evaluating and optimizing AI-driven models, supporting knowledge transfer, and mentoring team members to establish a permanent data science function. Candidates should have strong Python skills, expertise in machine learning, and the ability to communicate technical concepts effectively. This position offers an opportunity to grow within a collaborative environment.

Benefits

Career development support

Collaborative work environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience in developing, evaluating, and optimizing machine learning models.
• Strong proficiency in Python and common ML libraries.
• Solid understanding of data pipelines and ETL processes.

Responsibilities

• Assess the performance of existing AI/ML models.
• Maintain and refine models according to business requirements.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure alignment of AI initiatives.

Skills

Machine Learning Model Evaluation

Python Proficiency

Stakeholder Management

Problem-solving Skills

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

Job description

Report to Director of Data

The Aztec Group are seeking an experienced Senior Data Scientist to join our team on a six-month contract. This role will focus on evaluating, optimizing, supporting, and enhancing AI-driven models initially developed by a third-party provider. The successful candidate will also play a key role in knowledge transfer and capability building, helping establish a permanent internal data science function.

Key responsibilities

Model Evaluation & Optimization

• Assess the performance, accuracy, and robustness of existing AI/ML models used within Agentic AI solutions
• Identify opportunities for improvement and implement enhancements to ensure scalability and reliability

Model Support & Enhancement

• Maintain and refine models to align with evolving business requirements and regulatory standards
• Ensure proper documentation and version control of all model updates

Knowledge Transition & Capability Building

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to transfer knowledge from third-party solutions
• Develop best practices, frameworks, and documentation to support long-term internal capability
• Mentor internal team members and assist in defining the roadmap for a permanent data science function

Stakeholder Engagement

• Work closely with Data & Analytics leadership, technology teams, and business units to ensure alignment of AI initiatives with strategic objectives
• Communicate complex technical concepts clearly to non-technical stakeholders

Skills, knowledge, expertise

Technical Expertise

• Proven experience in developing, evaluating, and optimizing machine learning models (including LLMs and Agentic AI frameworks)
• Strong proficiency in Python and common ML libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn)
• Experience with prompt engineering and fine-tuning large language models

Data Engineering & Analytics

• Solid understanding of data pipelines, ETL processes, and cloud-based environments (AWS, Azure, or GCP)
• Familiarity with data governance, security, and compliance in financial services

Domain Knowledge

• Prior experience in financial services or alternative asset management is highly desirable

Soft Skills

• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities
• Ability to work independently and deliver results within tight timelines

You will need to be quick to learn new systems and be great with people, as close working relationships between our colleagues and clients is at the heart of what we do. Beyond that, we will be with you every step of the way, enabling you to get the most out of your role, grow your skills your way, and see your career develop in the way you want. Be part of our talented Technology team and unbox your passion at a multi-award-winning leader in the alternative fund management industry.