At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead data science projects, develop ML-centric solutions, and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
- Company: Join Autotrader, the UK's top automotive marketplace, known for innovation and diversity.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, share options, 28 days holiday, and hybrid working model.
- Other info: Access to 24/7 online GP, specialist support, and remote work opportunities during summer and winter.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant culture focused on continuous learning and impactful data-driven projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in data science, ML workflows, Python, SQL, and leading cross-functional teams required.
The predicted salary is between 43000 - 61000 £ per year.
About us
You've probably heard of Autotrader, but do you know what we're all about?
We're the most trusted, most visited automotive marketplace in the UK. A heritage brand and a tech innovator. We bring together vehicle buyers and sellers to give them real choices. Cars may be what we're best known for but we’re also the place for pretty much everything else on wheels, from e-bikes to caravans.
In the automotive world, change is a constant, that’s why we take our job of untangling the complex car-buying journey very seriously.
At our core, we’re all about people. We go our own way while embracing diversity and celebrating our differences. We dedicate ourselves to the idea that we work better together.
Autotrader is a beautiful, surprising and vibrant place to work. We might not be for everyone, but we could be perfect for you.
About the job
We are seeking a Senior Data Scientist who will play a crucial role in driving Autotrader's transformation into a data science-driven organisation.
As a Senior Data Scientist you will be responsible for the direction of Data Science at Autotrader. You will join a cross-functional collaborative squad focussed around a set of products or a services. With your experience and research skills you will spot the opportunities for Data Science and work with the leadership in your squad to prioritise, resource and shape subsequent projects. Your role will require you to orchestrate these projects, including supporting other Data Analysts and Scientists and collaborating with software engineers towards the best solution. You will have a focus on developing ML-centric data products and solutions, in which your expertise with ML frameworks and workflows will be key.
Right now, our Data Scientists are working on several exciting projects. For instance, they're creating personalised suggestions to get buyers more involved, improving our search system to make buying better for customers while also helping sellers stand out, building AI tools to aid customers in tasks like making listings and describing ads, studying how competition affects seller performance on our site, and upgrading our customer data platform for better targeted marketing beyond our site.
As part of our broader analytical community, Data Scientists collaborate closely with Data Analysts. Together, they foster a culture of shared insights, continuous learning, and mutual support through regular showcases, feedback sessions, mentorship programs and skill-based workshops. As a Senior member of the community, you will play a key role in establishing our analytical standards and tools.
We have invested heavily in a Data Platform that supports industry-leading Data Science. These are some technologies that our Data Scientists use (we don't expect applicants to have experience with all of these):
Python and Databricks for Data Science, Spark, MLFlow and Airflow for ML Workflows, Google Cloud Platform for our analytics infrastructure, dbt and BigQuery for data modelling and warehousing.
Discover more about our Analytics Community in our blog and explore how we use analytics and Data Science in our Engineering Blog.
What we're looking for
We are looking to grow our diverse team of curious data scientists. In your application, you should demonstrate:
- A track record of delivering data science solutions in a commercial business
- Experience productionising machine learning workflows. Knowledge of deployment and monitoring strategies.
- A deep understanding of ML frameworks, algorithms and statistical methods
- Expertise with Python and SQL
- Experience orchestrating data science projects in cross-functional teams and confidence leading other data scientists
- Enthusiasm for engaging with stakeholders both technical and non-technical to identify opportunities for Data Science and influence squad roadmaps
- A passion for coaching Data Analysts and Data Scientists
During our application process, you will be asked two questions to help us learn more about you and how you align with our values. These will be used as part of our selection criteria, to determine if we progress your application further.
Benefits
We’re offering a salary of £50,000– £70,000, plus an additional 10% of your salary awarded to you in shares each year. These awarded shares will become yours in yearly instalments over the next three years, and you can choose to either sell them or keep them as shares.
You'll have 28 days holiday per year, and that's in addition to bank holidays and half day closures on Christmas and New Year's Eve.
That’s not all. You'll be enrolled in our pension scheme, where our standard contributions are 7% and employee contributions are 5%. We also have comprehensive private medical cover, enhanced family leave provisions, a car salary sacrifice scheme, share-save options, and much more.
We always want to give you the support you need and help prioritise your wellbeing, that’s why we provide access to 24/7 online GP and dentist, as well as specialist support for assisted fertility, gender dysphoria, menopause, period care plans and lots more.
On top of all that, our hybrid model, Connected Working, combines the best of both worlds – office and home working. You'll spend a minimum of 3 days a week in the office with your team, focused on collaboration and connection.
Additionally, we have our remote-first periods at set times during summer and winter. During these periods, you can work remotely anywhere in the UK and from certain locations abroad.
Senior Data Scientist in Manchester employer: Autotrader
Autotrader is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Manchester where innovation thrives. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, we provide opportunities for mentorship and collaboration across teams, alongside a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package that includes share options and generous holiday allowances. Our hybrid work model ensures flexibility, allowing you to balance your professional and personal life while contributing to meaningful projects that shape the future of consumer products.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Data Scientist in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, such as Python, Databricks, and Google Cloud Platform. Having a solid understanding of these tools will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your readiness to contribute from day one.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the Autotrader community online. Follow their blogs and social media channels to stay updated on their latest projects and initiatives. This knowledge can help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading cross-functional teams. Think of specific examples where you've successfully orchestrated data science projects, as this aligns closely with what they are looking for in a Senior Data Scientist.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for mentoring and coaching others. Autotrader values a collaborative culture, so be ready to share how you've supported junior data scientists or analysts in the past, highlighting your leadership skills and commitment to team growth.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Data Scientist in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Before you start writing your application, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Data Scientist position at Autotrader. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with their needs.
Showcase Relevant Experience:In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your track record in delivering data science solutions, particularly in a commercial setting. Mention specific projects where you've successfully productionised machine learning workflows and the impact they had.
Highlight Technical Skills:Make sure to detail your expertise with Python, SQL, and any relevant ML frameworks or tools mentioned in the job description. If you have experience with technologies like Databricks, Spark, or Google Cloud Platform, be sure to include that as well.
Demonstrate Leadership and Collaboration:Since the role involves leading other data scientists and collaborating with cross-functional teams, provide examples of how you've successfully orchestrated data science projects and engaged with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
How to prepare for a job interview at Autotrader
✨Showcase Your Data Science Experience
Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've successfully delivered data science solutions. Highlight your experience with machine learning workflows and how you've productionised them in a commercial setting.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Skills
Familiarise yourself with the technologies mentioned in the job description, such as Python, SQL, and ML frameworks. Be ready to explain how you've used these tools in past projects and how they can be applied at Autotrader.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Leadership
Since the role involves working in cross-functional teams, share examples of how you've led or collaborated with other data scientists and stakeholders. Show your enthusiasm for mentoring others and fostering a supportive team environment.
✨Prepare Questions About the Company Culture
Autotrader values diversity and collaboration, so come prepared with questions that reflect your interest in their culture. Ask about their analytical community and how they support continuous learning and development among team members.
