Data Scientist (Semantic Search/Recommender Systems)

Tesco Technology; Welwyn Garden City; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Tesco Technology is seeking a Data Scientist specializing in Semantic Search and Recommender Systems. This role emphasizes collaboration with data professionals to enhance the search experience on the Tesco platform. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in Machine Learning and Software Engineering, contributing to innovative data solutions in a hybrid work environment.

Benefits

Annual bonus scheme up to 20% of base salary

Holiday entitlement starting at 25 days plus personal day

Private medical insurance

26 weeks full-pay maternity leave

Free 24/7 virtual GP service

Qualifications

• Experience as a Data Scientist or PhD graduate with expertise in Semantic Search.
• Hands-on experience with Deep Learning approaches and modern language models.
• Strong coding skills in Python and experience with testing and version control.

Responsibilities

• Designing algorithms for information retrieval and re-ranking.
• Developing efficient code and collaborating with cross-functional teams.
• Using data to train and enhance machine learning models.

Skills

Machine Learning

Software Engineering

Data Retrieval

Python

Education

PhD in Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, or related field

Tools

Elasticsearch

Vector Databases

Job description

Data Scientist (Semantic Search/Recommender Systems)

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As a Data Scientist within Semantic Search, you will influence the search experience on the Tesco website by utilising advanced technologies and collaborating with a team of seasoned Data Scientists, Machine Learning Engineers, and Software Engineers.

This role is based out of our London (Farringdon) office, offering the flexibility of hybrid working. Spend three days a week in the office and the remainder working from home.

About the Team

Join our world-class team of data professionals who are passionate about solving sophisticated business problems and deploying data products at scale. Our team works across various areas of our business, personalising our customers' experience across all touchpoints, both online and in-store. We are committed to personal and career development, providing on-desk training, support, and dedicating 10% of your working week to learning and professional growth. Additionally, there are opportunities to attend and speak at external and internal events, encouraging individuals' growth as experts in the field. Our team values work-life balance, team days, and cultivates a relaxed yet engaging culture.

Responsibilities

• Applying, modifying, and designing algorithms and models for information retrieval and re-ranking.
• Advising on the systems architecture, Machine Learning components, and associated technologies.
• Using data to train and fine-tune models.
• Developing efficient and high-quality code in Software Engineering.
• Collaborating closely with Search Engineers, ML Engineers, and Data Scientists.
• Promoting data science internally and effectively communicating sophisticated solutions to non-technical colleagues.

Requirements

To excel in this role, we seek individuals with a strong blend of Machine Learning and Software Engineering skills. Key requirements include:

• Experience as a Data Scientist or a PhD graduate with expertise in Semantic Search, recommender systems, information retrieval, or LLMs.
• PhD in Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with Deep Learning approaches, including modern language models based on transformer architecture.
• Strong coding skills, preferably in Python, with a solid grasp of effective engineering methods, version control, testing, and Continuous Integration.
• Desirable: Experience with Semantic Search, Vector Databases, and Search Engine frameworks like Elasticsearch.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Annual bonus scheme up to 20% of base salary.
• Holiday entitlement starting at 25 days plus a personal day and Bank holidays.
• Private medical insurance.
• 26 weeks full-pay maternity and adoption leave (after 1 year’s service), plus 4 weeks fully paid paternity leave.
• Free 24/7 virtual GP service, Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), and mental wellbeing support.

About Us

At Tesco, our vision is to become every customer's favourite way to shop, whether at home or on the move. Our core purpose is 'Serving our customers, communities and planet a little better every day'. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a fully inclusive environment where everyone is welcome. We offer flexible working patterns and a blend of office and remote work to support work-life balance.

Additional Details

• Seniority level: Entry level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Engineering and Information Technology
• Industry: Retail

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