Data Scientist (Natural Language Processing)

Wiltshire Council; Trowbridge; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 53,000; Full time

Job summary

Wiltshire Council is looking for a Data Scientist to join their Data & Insight team. This role focuses on Natural Language Processing to enhance data-driven decision-making. The ideal candidate will have a relevant degree and expertise in NLP techniques, along with strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• Proven expertise in NLP techniques such as topic clustering and sentiment analysis.
• Strong communication skills to collaborate with stakeholders.
• Experience in handling unstructured data challenges.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement advanced NLP systems to analyze data.
• Conduct statistical analysis to support data-driven decisions.
• Advise on sector developments and future NLP requirements.

Skills

Natural Language Processing

Statistical Analysis

Data Analysis

Communication

Education

Degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Linguistics, or related field

Tools

Python

NLTK

SpaCy

TensorFlow

Job description

Job Description

Salary: £50,788 - £52,805

Hours per week: 37 hours

Interview date: To be confirmed following shortlisting (between 17 June and 26 June 2025)

Transformation - Driving Change and Innovation

An exciting opportunity has arisen within Wiltshire Council for a Data Scientist to join our dynamic Data & Insight team within the Transformation Directorate.

The Data & Insight team collaborates with Council services and external partners to enhance data confidence and foster a data-driven decision-making culture. Data is considered the nervous system of the council and our second most valuable asset after our people.

As a Data Scientist specializing in Natural Language Processing, you will design and implement advanced NLP systems to analyze data and generate actionable insights. Your responsibilities include conducting statistical analysis to support data-driven decisions, ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and ethical use of NLP methodologies. Advising the Head of Data and Insight on sector developments and future NLP requirements will also be key in this role.

The ideal candidate will hold a degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Linguistics, or a related field with a focus on NLP or AI, or have relevant experience. Proven expertise in NLP techniques such as topic clustering, text classification, sentiment analysis, and handling unstructured data challenges is essential. Proficiency in Python and frameworks like NLTK, SpaCy, or TensorFlow is required. Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate confidently with stakeholders across the organization are also important.

Why us?

Wiltshire Council is a friendly, welcoming place to work, with a 'One Council' ethos. We focus on getting the important things right for our people. Explore more benefits here!

Please download and read the role description and person specification carefully before applying, as well as Our Identity.

The council is committed to fostering positive working relationships where everyone feels engaged, supported, and able to thrive. Our Identity framework guides how we lead, work, and act to deliver services. Discrimination, bullying, or harassment of any kind are not tolerated. We promote a culture of inclusion, dignity, trust, and respect, underpinned by our vision and Our Identity framework.

For more details, contact Hayleigh Freestone, Strategic Recruitment Specialist, at [e-mail].

This role may require certain security checks; please see the role description for details.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults, as well as principles of inclusion and diversity in employment and service delivery. Read our statement of commitment to equality and inclusion.

Disability Confident Employer

Application process

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