Senior Data Scientist - Machine Learning - Defence - Hybrid - Eligible for SC

ZipRecruiter; London; Hybrid; GBP 200,000 +; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Data Scientist to join their innovative team focused on developing AI solutions for the Defence sector. This hybrid role offers the unique opportunity to work with unique datasets and apply advanced machine learning techniques to real-world challenges. You will be instrumental in shaping the technical direction of cutting-edge projects that enhance security. With a balanced approach to operational work and research, this position provides a platform for impactful contributions and the potential for innovation in developing standalone products. Join a forward-thinking company dedicated to making a difference in the defence landscape.

Qualifications

• 3-4 years of Data Science experience in a Senior role.
• Strong skills in Python and ML libraries.
• Familiarity with MLOps and Cloud platforms.

Responsibilities

• Apply data science techniques to defence challenges.
• Conduct ML research and lead operational deployment.
• Mentor junior team members.

Skills

Python

Machine Learning

Object Detection

Reinforcement Learning

Graph Data / Clustering

MLOps

Cloud Platforms (Azure)

Data Science Techniques

Education

PhD or MSc in a quantitative field

Tools

Azure Cloud Platform

Azure DevOps

Azure AI tools

Job description

Job Description

Senior Data Scientist - Machine Learning - Defence - Hybrid - Eligible for SC

I’m working with a leading Tech company that provide Machine Learning and Data Science expertise to the Defence sector, developing advanced analytics and AI solutions. They collect their own data for building and deploying cutting-edge Machine Learning technologies that enhance security. They are in the process of building a new Data Science / AI team from the ground up and you'll have the opportunity to shape the technical direction and capabilities of their products. This will be a truly greenfield role where you get to build something from scratch. Experience of doing this previously will be highly valuable as will experience in the Defence sector.

The Role

As the successful Senior Data Scientist, you'll be part of a small team developing AI solutions for defence applications, working with unique datasets . This position offers the chance to apply machine learning in an environment with direct impact on real-world operations.

They provide intelligence data to support Defence operations so we need someone who is ethically aligned with their mission.

Responsibilities

• Apply data science techniques to defence challenges including Object Detection, Track Fusion, Graph Data / Clustering, Reinforcement Learning, and LLM/RAG deployment
• Conduct ML research and lead operational deployment to build models from scratch
• Mentor junior team members
• Implement Data Science best practices
• Stay current with emerging trends in AI, sensor technologies, and simulation techniques

Requirements

• PhD or an MSc in a quantitative field (Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or related STEM discipline)
• At least 3-4 years Data Science experience and proven skills in a Senior Data Scientist role.
• Strong experience of at least one of the following and appreciation of the rest: Object Detection, Track Fusion, Graph Data / Clustering, Reinforcement Learning, and LLM/RAG deployment
• Strong Python programming skills and proficiency with ML libraries
• Familiarity with MLOps and Cloud platforms (Azure - Azure Cloud Platform, Azure DevOps, Azure AI tools)
• Security clearance (SC) essential or the ability to obtain it
• Clear communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences

What Sets Them Apart

• Direct Data Access: They collect their own data, eliminating the data silo issues common in defence work
• End-to-End Development: Build solutions from scratch and see them deployed in the real world
• Practical Impact: Contribute to projects that enhance security
• Balanced Approach: Initially 80% operational work and 20% research, shifting toward more research as capabilities mature
• Innovation Potential: Opportunity to develop ideas that could become standalone products

Work Arrangement

• Hybrid working (minimum one day per week in office)
• Office locations in London, Oxford or Lincolnshire
• Salary: £80,000 (based on experience) + bonus + benefits