Data Scientist – Data Analytics and Science Hub (DASH)

Department: Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)

Application Deadline: 31st March 2025, 11:55 pm

Reference Number: 392167

Salary

• National: £33,590 – £36,000
• London: £37,480 – £40,170
• A Civil Service Pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%

Job Details

• Job Grade: Higher Executive Officer
• Contract Type: Permanent
• Business Area: Core DEFRA
• Working Pattern: Flexible working, Full-time, Job share, Part-time
• Number of Positions Available: 2

Location

• Bristol, London, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, York

Job Summary

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is responsible for safeguarding the natural environment, supporting the food and farming industry, and sustaining a thriving rural economy.

This role is part of the Data Science and Analytics Hub (DASH) within the Central Analysis and Insights Directorate (CAID). CAID plays a strategic role in ensuring high-quality analysis drives Defra’s strategy, policy, and delivery. The DASH programme aims to transform data science and analysis by providing scalable, future-ready, and user-oriented services.

As a Data Scientist in DASH, you will help users develop their skills in data science, deliver training, provide guidance on best practices, and support communication and engagement initiatives.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop a strong understanding of DASH capabilities and contribute to training, events, and communications.
• Assist users in applying data science techniques through the DASH service.
• Organise, update, and deliver training sessions for DASH platform users.
• Engage with scientists and analysts to promote innovative data science applications.
• Support community building and collaboration within Defra and across government departments.

Person Specification

Essential Skills and Experience

• Strong communication skills to explain technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Experience applying data science techniques to solve complex real-world problems.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as R or Python, Git, and GitHub for version control and collaboration.
• Familiarity with Cloud computing.
• Proficient use of Excel, Outlook Calendar, Jira, SharePoint, and Teams.
• Background in science, analytics, data science, technology, or geography.

Behaviours Assessed

• Managing a Quality Service
• Developing Self and Others
• Working Together

Technical Skills Assessed

• Ability to apply data science techniques as per the Government Digital and Data Profession Capability Framework.

Benefits

Learning and Development

• Induction programme and mentorship.
• Access to Civil Service Learning for professional development.

Leave Entitlements

• 25 days of paid leave, increasing to 30 days after five years.
• Additional leave:
• Public holidays and the King’s Birthday privilege day.
• Competitive maternity, paternity, parental, and adoption leave.
• Study leave for academic pursuits.
• 3 days paid volunteering leave annually.
• 15 days paid reservist training leave per year.
• Generous paid sick leave.

Financial Benefits

• Cycle to Work Scheme – tax-free bike loan with an option to purchase.
• Season Ticket Loan – interest-free loans for public transport commuting.
• Interest-free bicycle loan.

Workplace Facilities

• Gym, fitness facilities, games rooms, showers, and cycle storage at selected locations.
• Access to restaurants and cafés at certain offices.

Civil Service Benefits

• Membership in the Civil Service Pension Scheme.
• Discounts and benefits through the Civil Service Sports Council (CSSC).

Application Process

Selection Process

• Assessed via Success Profiles, evaluating Behaviours and Technical Skills.
• Initial sift based on the lead behaviour: Managing a Quality Service.
• Interviews expected week commencing 14th April 2025 (subject to change).
• Interviews will assess behaviours and technical skills and may include a presentation or exercise.

Workplace and Location Policy

• Successful candidates will have a contractual workplace from one of the listed locations.
• Civil Servants must spend at least 60% of their working time in an organisational workplace.

Visa Sponsorship

• Defra does not sponsor Skilled Worker Visas.

Security Clearance

• A criminal record check is required.
• Candidates for London-based roles may require higher security clearance.

Nationality Requirements

Open to:

• UK nationals
• Republic of Ireland nationals
• Commonwealth nationals with UK work rights
• EU/EEA nationals with settled/pre-settled status under the EUSS
• Turkish nationals with the right to work in the UK

Additional Information

• Reserve List: Successful candidates may be placed on a reserve list for 12 months.
• Merit-Based Hiring: Candidates are ranked based on merit and location preference.

How to Apply

• Application Deadline: 31st March 2025, 11:55 pm
• Contact for Job Queries: sandc.resourcing@defra.gov.uk
• Recruitment Team Contact: defrarecruitment.grs@cabinetoffice.gov.uk