Lead Performance Data Scientist in Milton Keynes

Who We Are

At Network Rail, we’re dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you’re not just part of a team – you’re part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway. We’re committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we’ll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process. If you’re ready to make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you!

Vacancy Details

• Duration: Permanent
• Salary: £85,395 – £112,583
• Contract Type: Permanent
• Hours: Full Time
• Location: The Quadrant, MK, Milton Keynes (South East England, not inside M25)
• Closing Date: 21-JUL-2026
• Number of Positions: 1

Benefits

• Flexible/hybrid working arrangements considered.
• Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy/sell days.
• Discounts at stations with your Network Rail pass.
• Defined benefit pension scheme.
• 75% subsidy on train tickets.
• Interest‑free travel loan for train and car park season tickets.
• Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.
• Plus more.

About the Role

You will lead the establishment of a data science function within Performance, setting its priorities, standards and operating model so it can deliver meaningful improvements across the rail network. Working with colleagues across Network Rail and the wider industry, you will identify the biggest performance opportunities, connect and analyse diverse datasets, and shape a pipeline of data science and machine learning work that moves from idea to implementation. You will make sure the function delivers practical outputs that improve reliability, efficiency and decision making.

You will be a trusted voice for senior stakeholders, using evidence and insight to influence priorities and embed data‑driven decision making in Performance. A key part of the role will be building capability, developing people and creating the right governance, tools and standards for a sustainable data science function. This is an opportunity to build something new and lasting, shaping how Performance uses data science to support one of the UK’s most critical networks every day.

You will join Network Performance at an important point in its development, with a clear ambition to establish data science as a core capability within the function. You will work with analysts, performance specialists, technical experts and industry partners to build a collaborative, forward‑thinking function that uses data to tackle complex performance challenges. The focus will be on creating strong foundations, sharing knowledge and delivering high‑quality work that improves how the network operates every day.

Essential Criteria

• Ability to demonstrate a broad and deep knowledge in the field of Data Science and Advanced Analytics.
• Degree and appropriate postgraduate qualification or equivalent experience in a relevant subject such as Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science or Operations Research.
• Substantial knowledge and experience in statistical and data mining techniques and frameworks.
• Significant and demonstrable experience of initiating and delivering data science and machine learning projects.
• Experience of one or more appropriate programming languages (e.g. R, Python, Scala) and machine learning platforms.
• Sound knowledge of current trends in data science and machine learning.
• Ability to create and deliver clear communication of outcomes.
• Membership of a relevant professional body such as the Chartered Institution of Railway Operators, Chartered Institute for IT, the Operational Research Society or other bodies that are part of the Alliance for Data Science Professionals (AfDSP).

Next Steps

CV shortlisting will take place after the advert closes, with interviews planned from the week commencing [date], subject to business needs. Early applications are encouraged, as we may close the advert early due to high application volumes. All external offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre‑employment checks.