At a Glance
- Tasks: Produce high-quality workforce data and insightful analysis for effective decision-making.
- Company: Join DFTO, the government’s public sector rail owning group, transforming train operations.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for learning and networking across the industry.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of rail services while developing your analytical skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in data analysis, strong Excel skills, and a keen eye for detail required.
The predicted salary is between 42914 - 42914 £ per year.
About DFTO. DFTO is the government’s public sector rail owning group. Its purpose is to bring all currently privately-owned train operators into public ownership in advance of the creation of Great British Railways in 2027 - and deliver improvements in the here and now by unifying and integrating train operations under common public ownership. DFTO has over 30,000 employees, runs over 8,500 services a day and delivers over 640 million customer journeys across its networks every year. Major improvements are being delivered by DFTO train operators (TOCs) that are already under public ownership – these are LNER, Northern, TransPennine Express (TPE), Southeast, South Western Railway (SWR), c2c, Greater Anglia, WM Trains and GTR. Our priority is ensuring efficient, dependable rail services for everyone.
Primary Purpose of Job
Produce high-quality workforce data, analysis and models that underpin workforce insight, reporting and planning across DFTO. Ensure data is accurate, timely, and structured in a way that enables effective decision-making. Ensure all workforce analysis used across DFTO is accurate, consistent, and decision-ready.
Key Deliverables
- Clean, reliable workforce datasets ready for analysis and reporting
- Core analytical outputs (models, queries, data extracts) supporting insight and SWP
- Accurate, timely reporting that feeds dashboards and decision packs
- Consistent data definitions applied across analysis and outputs
Key Responsibilities
Data Preparation & Management
- Extract, clean and structure workforce data from multiple sources
- Maintain consistent datasets aligned to defined KPIs and data standards
- Resolve data quality issues in partnership with Data & Systems
Analysis & Modelling
- Build and maintain core analytical models (e.g. attrition, absence, workforce trends)
- Support development of forecasting and scenario inputs for SWP
- Run regular and ad hoc analysis as required
Reporting & Outputs
- Produce standard and ad hoc reports to support dashboards and insight packs
- Ensure accuracy, consistency and timeliness of outputs
- Support automation of reporting processes where possible
Support to Insights & SWP
- Provide analytical support to the Analytics & Insights Manager
- Enable the SWP Manager with structured data and modelling inputs
- Adapt outputs based on business questions and priorities
Continuous Improvement
- Identify opportunities to improve data structure, quality and automation
- Support development of analytical tools, templates and reusable outputs
Knowledge, Skills, Experience & Technical Qualifications
Knowledge & Skills
- Strong ability to manipulate, clean and structure data from multiple sources
- Good understanding of workforce data (e.g. headcount, absence, attrition, organisation structures)
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy and consistency
- Ability to translate business questions into structured data queries and outputs
- Clear and logical approach to problem‑solving using data
- Basic understanding of data visualisation principles
Experience
- Experience working with data in an analytical, reporting or operational context
- Experience handling large and/or complex datasets
- Experience producing regular and ad hoc reporting outputs
- Experience supporting analysis for business or operational teams
- Experience working with defined metrics, KPIs, or structured reporting frameworks
The Ideal candidate would be from an HR background
Technical Qualifications / Capability
- Strong Excel capability (data manipulation, formulas, pivot tables essential)
- Experience with data visualisation tools (Power BI, Qlik or similar)
- Ability to extract and manipulate data from systems or databases
- Basic understanding of data structures and data quality considerations
- Desirable: experience with SQL or similar query languages
Vacancy Details
- Duration: Fixed Term contract/secondment up to 31st October 2027
- Location: London Waterloo/Hybrid
- Salary: up to £42,914
- Closing date: 25th June 2026
DFTO Benefits
- Annual Leave: Starting at 25 days and rising to an additional day per year of service completed within the first 5 completed years up to a maximum of 5 additional (30 days)
- DC Pension Scheme: 10% Employer contribution, 5% Employee contribution
- Opportunities to learn and network across the wider industry
Contact: Dean.palmer@dftoperator.co.uk
Workforce Data Analyst employer: DfT Operator
DFTO is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where over 30,000 employees contribute to the future of public rail services in the UK. With a strong commitment to employee growth, DFTO provides extensive training opportunities, a generous annual leave policy, and a robust pension scheme, all while fostering a collaborative culture that values data-driven decision-making. Located at London Waterloo, the role of Workforce Data Analyst not only allows you to make a meaningful impact on the rail industry but also offers the chance to connect with professionals across the sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Workforce Data Analyst
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like DfT Operator, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like DfT Operator and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Workforce Data Analyst
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for DfT Operator and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at DfT Operator
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with DfT Operator, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for DfT Operator.
