At a Glance
- Tasks: Transform data into actionable insights and support impactful journalism.
- Company: Join the Guardian, a diverse and inclusive global media organisation.
- Benefits: 30 days annual leave, generous pension, private healthcare, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Hybrid work environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in journalism using data science and innovative technologies.
- Qualifications: Strong Python and SQL skills; experience with BigQuery is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join our team at the Guardian and be a part of a diverse and inclusive global organisation that delivers fearless, investigative journalism and holds power to account. We are a network of award‑winning journalists, commercial professionals, and digital experts committed to making a difference and representing a wide range of backgrounds.
You will take on end‑to‑end problems and turn ambiguous questions into analysis, models, and recommendations that teams can act on. The data primarily lives in Google BigQuery, with additional off‑platform sources such as social media. Our infrastructure uses a mix of AWS and GCP, and Apache Airflow powers our pipelines. We mostly use Python and SQL, with other languages and tools as needed.
About the role
- Own data science projects from problem definition to delivery, independently delivering impactful work across editorial, marketing, advertising, product and engineering.
- Understand what makes stories reach and engage audiences; support content discovery and tagging systems; analyse how editorial decisions influence performance and help journalists find leads and insights in large datasets.
- Model reader conversion, churn and engagement with products; segment audiences to support growth; support marketing campaign and product optimisation.
- Optimise advertising campaigns, enrich content metadata for advertising, and help teams make better decisions with imperfect data.
- Deploy data solutions in close collaboration with engineering, embedding models into existing tools and workflows.
- Work on improvements at every step of the machine learning lifecycle.
About you
- Strong experience in Python and SQL; experience with BigQuery is beneficial.
- Excellent command of statistics and machine learning (NLP experience a bonus).
- Proven track record delivering end‑to‑end analysis or modelling projects.
- Ability to communicate clearly with both technical and non‑technical audiences.
- Comfortable working with ambiguity and incomplete information.
We actively encourage applications from groups traditionally underrepresented in the UK media.
Working conditions
We operate in a hybrid environment: 3 days a week from our offices in Kings Cross and 2 days a week remotely. We value and respect all differences in all people, and aspire to have inclusive working experiences that reflect the audience we serve. Many staff work flexibly, and we will consider all requests for flexible working arrangements.
Benefits
- 30 days of annual leave per year (plus bank holidays) with the option to purchase an additional 5 days.
- Generous pension scheme – contribute 5 % and we contribute 8‑12 % (depending on age).
- 2 volunteering days annually and the option of payroll giving.
- Season ticket loans are also available.
- Private healthcare, life cover, income protection, and eye tests – dental insurance opt‑in.
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave policies, plus IVF, menopause, baby loss and trans equality policy support.
Culture and wellbeing
We champion diversity of thought and provide employee forums for voice and inclusion. Our first major media organisation to achieve B Corp status, we offer wellbeing tools, free yoga and pilates classes, a corporate gym membership and cycle‑to‑work scheme. Our canteen provides breakfast, lunch and dinner with views of Regents Canal.
Learning and development
We encourage personal and professional growth. Employees have access to a broad range of tools and solutions, and support is provided for pursuing professional qualifications through vocational courses and apprenticeships.
Hybrid Data Scientist — Audience & Editorial Insights employer: GUARDIAN NEWS AND MEDIA
At the Guardian, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that champions diversity and inclusivity within a dynamic hybrid work environment. Our commitment to employee wellbeing is reflected in our generous benefits package, including 30 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and comprehensive healthcare options. We foster a culture of continuous learning and professional development, ensuring that our team members have the resources and support they need to thrive while making a meaningful impact in the world of journalism.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Hybrid Data Scientist — Audience & Editorial Insights
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at the Guardian on LinkedIn or other platforms. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for your application process. It’s all about making connections!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your Python and SQL skills. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled data science projects in the past, especially those that involved ambiguity. Show us how you can turn complex problems into actionable insights!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just focus on technical skills; practice explaining your work to non-technical folks too. Being able to communicate your findings clearly is key, especially in a diverse environment like ours. We want to see how you can bridge the gap!
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at the Guardian. Let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Hybrid Data Scientist — Audience & Editorial Insights
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Data:When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for data science! Share specific examples of projects you've worked on that relate to audience engagement or editorial insights. We love seeing how you can turn complex data into actionable insights.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure your CV and cover letter are tailored to the role. Highlight your experience with Python, SQL, and any work with BigQuery. We want to know how your skills align with our needs, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects!
Be Clear and Concise:We appreciate clarity in communication, especially when it comes to technical topics. Use straightforward language to explain your experience and avoid jargon where possible. Remember, we want to understand your thought process and how you tackle problems.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our culture and values while you’re at it!
How to prepare for a job interview at GUARDIAN NEWS AND MEDIA
✨Know Your Data Tools
Familiarise yourself with Google BigQuery, Python, and SQL before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in past projects, especially in relation to data analysis and modelling.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled ambiguous problems in your previous roles. Highlight your end-to-end project experiences, focusing on how you defined problems, conducted analyses, and delivered actionable insights.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice explaining complex data concepts in simple terms. The Guardian values clear communication, so be prepared to demonstrate how you can convey technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
✨Embrace Diversity and Inclusion
Research The Guardian's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Be ready to discuss how your background and experiences align with their values, and how you can contribute to a diverse team environment.