Associate Data Scientist

We're looking for an inquisitive and analytical Associate Data Scientist to join a multidisciplinary team delivering innovative data science solutions that support evidence-based decision making across government. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with experience in data analysis, machine learning and statistical modelling who wants to work on meaningful projects using large and complex datasets. You'll work alongside data scientists, analysts, engineers and subject matter experts to develop robust analytical products that help solve real-world problems. This position is an initial 6-month contract (full time, 37 hours per week, flexi-time) , which has the possibility of transitioning into a permanent position. The position is a hybrid role (1-2 days per week in office) , and the successful candidate can be based from one of two office locations - Newport (South Wales) or Titchfield (Hampshire). What You'll Be Doing As an Associate Data Scientist, you will: * Develop and assure basic analytical models using a range of data science techniques. * Prepare, clean and manipulate data ready for analysis. * Apply statistical methods and machine learning techniques to extract insights from complex datasets. * Produce high-quality visualisations and communicate findings to both technical and non-technical audiences. * Collaborate within multidisciplinary Agile teams to deliver data science products. * Ensure outputs are quality assured, reproducible and ethically developed. * Contribute to continuous improvement by researching new techniques and identifying opportunities to innovate. Essential Skills \& Experience We're looking for candidates who can demonstrate experience in: * Applying statistical analysis and exploratory data analysis to solve business problems. * Developing analytical models using programming languages such as Python or R . * Data preparation, cleansing and transformation. * Machine learning techniques and model validation. * Communicating technical findings through reports, presentations and data visualisations. * Working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams. * Understanding data ethics and responsible use of data. * Software development principles including version control and collaborative coding. Desirable Experience * SQL and relational databases. * Cloud-based analytical environments (AWS, Azure or GCP). * Git or other version control systems. * Agile delivery methodologies. * Dashboarding tools such as Power BI or Tableau. About You You'll be naturally curious, enjoy solving complex problems and be keen to continuously develop your data science capability. You'll be someone who: * Enjoys exploring data and discovering new insights. * Thinks critically and makes evidence-based recommendations. * Communicates clearly with a range of stakeholders. * Is proactive, adaptable and collaborative. * Takes pride in producing accurate, high-quality work.