At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead psychometric analysis and enhance our adaptive testing platform using data science and programming skills.
- Company: Join Kaplan International Pathways, a leader in flexible study options for international students.
- Benefits: Enjoy remote work, 28 days annual leave, and discounts on Kaplan courses for you and your family.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of AI innovation in education while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Master's or Ph.D. in relevant fields, strong psychometric and programming skills required.
- Other info: Part-time role with a competitive salary of £55,000 pro rata.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 77000 £ per year.
We are looking for a Lead Psychometric Data Scientist to join our team.
We are seeking an experienced psychometrician to join our online English language testing team. You will combine strong psychometric and data science expertise with technical programming skills to maintain and enhance our adaptive testing platform. This role bridges the gap between psychometric analysis and technical implementation, working closely with IT teams to drive continuous improvement of our assessment system. You will also lead AI innovation initiatives to enhance test delivery, scoring, and adaptation mechanisms through the application of machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone who may be currently working as a Data Scientist, who is looking to expand their skills and build their career with an industry leader.
What you’ll bring to the role
- Master’s or Ph.D. Degree preferred (or working towards the completion of) in one of the following disciplines: applied mathematics, psychometrics, data science, educational measurement, statistics, or a closely related subject.
- Significant experience and high level technical competence in analysing and quality monitoring high-stakes CAT assessments (English language assessments preferred).
- Practical knowledge of Item Response Theory (IRT), including use of IRT in test construction, score scaling, score equating, adaptive testing, DIF.
- Technical knowledge of parameter estimation methods used in IRT (ML, EM-algorithm, MCMC).
- Ability to work with adaptive algorithms and automated response scoring in educational tests.
- Proficient in programming languages: Python, SQL.
- Excellent working knowledge of psychometric packages and software.
- Knowledge and experience in applying advanced statistical models and Machine Learning tools and methods for inference and prediction.
- Experience in using gen-AI in educational research.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and strong report writing skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively across a range of teams.
What we offer
- 28 days annual leave*
- Big discounts on Kaplan courses for you and your family
- 24/7 confidential helpline providing counselling and other support services
- Company pension contributions
- Maternity, Adoption, Shared Parental and Paternity/Partner pay which is well above statutory levels
- Medicash Health Cash Plan
*Please note that the annual leave entitlement will be calculated on a pro rata basis if the role is part time.
How to apply
To apply for this role please submit a CV along with a Cover Letter detailing how you meet the requirements of the role no later than 11pm on 8th May 2025. Note, we recommend that you apply at the earliest as we reserve the right to close the role before the closing date if we have gathered a suitable shortlist.
Lead Psychometric Data Scientist employer: Kaplan International
Contact Detail:
Kaplan International Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Psychometric Data Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in psychometrics and data science. Being well-versed in current methodologies, especially in adaptive testing and machine learning, will help you stand out during discussions with our team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of psychometrics and data science. Attend relevant webinars or conferences to connect with others who may have insights about our company and the role, which could give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with Item Response Theory (IRT) and how you've applied it in previous roles. We value practical knowledge, so be ready to share specific examples of your work in this area.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your programming skills, particularly in Python and SQL. Consider working on a small project or case study that demonstrates your ability to analyse data and implement psychometric models, as this will resonate well with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Psychometric Data Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in psychometrics, data science, and programming. Emphasise your technical skills in Python and SQL, as well as any experience with adaptive testing and machine learning.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, clearly articulate how your background aligns with the job requirements. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your expertise in Item Response Theory and your ability to work collaboratively across teams.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Provide examples of how you've applied advanced statistical models or machine learning tools in previous roles. This will help illustrate your problem-solving abilities and technical competence.
Highlight Communication Skills: Since excellent interpersonal and communication skills are essential for this role, include instances where you've successfully communicated complex data findings to non-technical stakeholders or contributed to team projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kaplan International
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Make sure to highlight your proficiency in programming languages like Python and SQL during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've applied these skills, especially in relation to psychometric analysis or adaptive testing.
✨Demonstrate Your Psychometric Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with key concepts such as Item Response Theory (IRT) and parameter estimation methods. Be ready to explain how you've used these methodologies in past roles, particularly in high-stakes assessments.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Questions
Expect questions that assess your analytical and problem-solving abilities. Think of examples from your experience where you successfully tackled complex issues, especially those related to data science or educational measurement.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Communication
Since this role involves working closely with IT teams and other departments, be sure to discuss your interpersonal skills. Share examples of how you've effectively communicated technical information to non-technical stakeholders in previous positions.