Senior Data Scientist

ICF works on the key challenges of our times, supporting governments in the design, appraisal and delivery of policies and programmes across a wide range of issues - from migration, security, technology to health, food and the environment.

Our Data Science Team works in partnership with experts across our business, applying data science methods to create innovative solutions for ICF clients in the UK and EU. The team’s work has a particular focus on the application of data science to public policy research and analysis.

We are looking for a Senior Data Scientist to contribute to the further growth and success of this team by applying expertise in data science to client projects and working closely with the team leader to provide coaching and line management to more junior data scientists. You will typically be working on a few projects at a time, interacting with all levels of ICF staff and external stakeholders. You will contribute to drafting research reports and proposals, and present findings to clients. We are particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate a genuine interest in public policies in the areas we cover.

We have a flexible, hybrid model in which you can balance working from home with use of our UK bases in London, Plymouth, Leeds, Birmingham and Manchester.

Basic qualifications

• At minimum, a Bachelor’s degree in disciplines such as Data Science or Social Sciences.
• At least three years of practical experience within industry, government, or consulting in applying data-driven approaches to a variety of business scenarios, including creation and use of advanced analytics or machine learning algorithms.
• Previous line management experience.
• An understanding of data science and machine learning concepts and algorithms such as clustering, regression, classification, forecasting, neural networks, hyperparameter tuning, NLP, and utilising LLMs.
• An understanding of the importance of effective communication with clients and experience of relaying complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in Python.
• Strong report writing and presentation skills.
• Excellent command of English language.

Preferred qualifications

• Experience of (i) query languages such as SQL and (ii) working on proposals for client work would be advantageous but are not essential.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

More about ICF

ICF is a global consulting services company with over 9,000 full- and part-time employees, but we are not your typical consultants. We believe in collaboration, mutual respect, open communication, and opportunity for growth.

We give active support to career progression. We are committed to learning and personal development - providing in-house training programmes, access to our communities of practice and online learning resources. We provide a supportive, collegiate work environment. Our ‘You Matter’ programme enables recognition of colleague’s contributions, support and success.

The benefits of joining ICF

Our people at ICF are our most important asset, so we invest in them from the moment they arrive. When you join our team, you’ll have access to a vast array of benefits to help you live your life well.

• We offer a hybrid working policy, which will provide you with the flexibility to collaborate in the office, as well as in the comfort of your own home, ensuring you are able to successfully deliver the requirements of your role.
• To support you, our employee wellbeing hub is designed to provide highly personalised support across a comprehensive range of wellbeing issues, such as mind, body, finances, community, career programs and HR support.
• We enjoy celebrating success, which is why we have a competitive recognition program called ‘You Matter’, which awards points as a ‘thank you’ for your work achievements. These can be spent on a large variety of high-quality items, as well as online or high-street vouchers, all with zero tax payable by the employee.
• ICF also offers a range of competitive benefits, which include:

• Single Private Medical Insurance cover with no restrictions on existing conditions.
• Dental insurance and an online GP service.
• 25 days annual leave, plus UK bank holidays (annual leave increases with years of service).
• Pension scheme with 5% of salary employer contribution.
• Life assurance paying 4x annual salary and Group Income Protection paying 66% of salary for up to 5 years if you are off work on long-term sick.
• Enhanced parental leave policies, enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption, and shared parental pay.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair and equitable interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process. However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodations that involve the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at candidateaccommodation@icf.com. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.