Senior Data Scientist

First Central Services; Manchester, Haywards Heath; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading insurance company is seeking an Experienced Data Scientist to join their Underwriting team. You will apply data science techniques to uncover insights from extensive datasets and develop predictive models. This role offers flexibility to work remotely or from offices in Manchester or Haywards Heath. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in Python and machine learning, with an emphasis on continuous improvement and innovation.

Benefits

Health plans, including Simply Health Cash plan

Flexible bank holidays

Electric Car Scheme

Flexible working arrangements

Your Time in Need: five days’ leave for personal life events

Qualifications

• Proven data science and analysis experience.
• Strong understanding of statistical techniques and their applications.
• Knowledge of data platforms, processing, and data structures.

Responsibilities

• Develop data services including deep learning and predictive analytics.
• Perform data analysis and collection to support these services.
• Identify opportunities where data science can add value.

Skills

Proficiency in Python

Experience building and training machine learning models

Previous data science experience in a relevant role

Education

Degree in Data Science or a related field

Tools

Machine learning libraries and tools

Data query languages like SQL and HiveQL

Job description

Location: Haywards Heath, Home Office (Remote) or Manchester
Salary: £45,000 - £55,000 depending on experience
Department: Underwriting

We’re 1st Central, a market-leading insurance company utilizing smart data and technology at pace. Our rapid growth is based on providing our 1.4 million customers with great value insurance and excellent service. We were awarded Insurance Employer of the Year at the British Insurance Awards 2024, and our Glassdoor score is impressive!

We are seeking an Experienced Data Scientist with a passion for Python and machine learning. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of building and training models to solve real-world problems. Experience in the Insurance industry or with Databricks is a bonus but not essential.

The role of Senior Data Scientist is within our Underwriting team, and can be based remotely or at our offices in Salford Quays, Manchester or Haywards Heath, West Sussex.

You will collaborate with Data Scientists and specialists to deliver innovative services by discovering and creating value from our extensive data assets. Your focus will be on applying data science techniques individually and collaboratively to generate actionable insights.

Responsibilities include working with large, diverse datasets, developing predictive models, and implementing machine learning algorithms to address business challenges. You will work closely with in-house technology teams and data presentation teams across multiple locations.

We value continuous improvement and encourage sharing ideas to enhance our methods and team knowledge.

Core skills required:

• Proficiency in Python
• Experience building and training machine learning models
• Previous data science experience in a relevant role

Optional but advantageous skills:

• Insurance industry experience
• Knowledge of Databricks

Key activities:

• Develop data services including deep learning and predictive analytics
• Perform data analysis and collection to support these services
• Enhance data sources through testing external data
• Collaborate with team members and external partners to deliver solutions
• Identify opportunities where data science can add value
• Follow good coding practices and adhere to risk controls
• Comply with company policies and standards
• Perform other duties as assigned

Experience & knowledge:

• Proven data science and analysis experience
• Strong understanding of statistical techniques and their applications
• Knowledge of data platforms, processing, and data structures
• Experience with machine learning libraries and tools
• Familiarity with data query languages like SQL and HiveQL
• Experience with data integration and ETL processes
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Degree in Data Science or a related field

Behaviours:

• Self-motivated and enthusiastic
• Determined and passionate about data and technology
• Decisive, with the ability to work independently or in a team
• Flexible and positive attitude
• Organized and proactive

If you're ready for a challenge and want to join our vibrant team, we want to hear from you!

We prioritize our people and offer an energetic, supportive, and inspiring workplace. Check out our perks and benefits [here].

Our Talent team is available to provide more information about this opportunity. We are open to discussing flexible working arrangements during the recruitment process.

As part of our Women in Finance Charter pledge, we aim to have 30% women in leadership roles by the end of 2023.

Employee Benefits and Perks

• Health plans, including Simply Health Cash plan
• Flexible bank holidays
• Electric Car Scheme
• Flexible working arrangements
• Your Time in Need: five days’ leave for personal life events