At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure ethical use of data and AI in a high-profile government programme.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on responsible data practices.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, flexible hybrid working, and a chance to make a societal impact.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with strong values on respect and equality.
- Why this job: Shape the future of data ethics while collaborating with top professionals.
- Qualifications: Active SC clearance and experience in data ethics or responsible AI roles.
We're hiring an experienced SC-cleared Data Ethicist to support the delivery of a high-profile central government data and AI programme. This role focuses on ensuring ethical, responsible, and transparent use of data and AI technologies, balancing innovation with public trust, compliance, and societal impact.
This is a hands-on advisory and governance role, working closely with data scientists, engineers, architects, policy teams, and senior stakeholders to embed ethical principles into data-driven services and decision-making processes.
Key Requirements- Active Security Clearance (SC) - must be current and transferable
- Proven experience as a Data Ethicist or in responsible AI / data ethics roles within central government or regulated environments
- Strong understanding of ethical frameworks for data and AI (e.g. fairness, accountability, transparency, explainability)
- Experience applying ethical principles to AI/ML models and data-driven products
- Knowledge of UK regulatory and ethical standards (e.g. GDPR, ICO guidance, AI assurance frameworks)
- Familiarity with bias detection, mitigation, and fairness evaluation techniques
- Experience working with data governance, risk, and compliance teams
- Understanding of cloud-based data and AI platforms (Azure/AWS)
- Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills, including ability to challenge constructively
- Experience working in Agile, multidisciplinary teams
- Define and implement data ethics and responsible AI frameworks aligned to government standards
- Assess ethical risks in data use, analytics, and machine learning models
- Provide guidance on fairness, bias mitigation, transparency, and explainability
- Review and challenge data-driven solutions to ensure ethical compliance and public trust
- Collaborate with delivery teams to embed ethics into design, development, and deployment processes
- Support the development of ethical impact assessments and governance controls
- Work with legal, policy, and technical teams to ensure regulatory alignment
- Contribute to documentation, standards, and audit readiness
- Promote a culture of ethical data use across teams and stakeholders
1-2 days per week on-site in London or Manchester. Remaining days remote, offering a flexible hybrid working model.
If you're an SC-cleared Data Ethicist with strong experience in responsible AI, governance, and ethical data practices within complex environments, we'd like to hear from you.
Reasonable Adjustments: Respect and equality are core values to us. We are proud of the diverse and inclusive community we have built, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. Our success is driven by our people, united by the spirit of partnership to deliver the best resourcing solutions for our clients. If you need any help or adjustments during the recruitment process for any reason, please let us know when you apply or talk to the recruiters directly so we can support you.
SC Cleared Data Ethicist employer: Sanderson Government and Defence
Join a forward-thinking organisation that prioritises ethical data practices and innovation in the heart of London or Manchester. With a flexible hybrid working model, competitive daily rates, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, we foster a collaborative work culture that empowers employees to grow and make a meaningful impact on society through responsible AI and data governance.
Contact Detail:
Sanderson Government and Defence Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SC Cleared Data Ethicist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the data ethics field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on ethical frameworks and current trends in AI. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these principles in past roles, as this will show your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that SC Cleared Data Ethicist role! We’re always looking for talented individuals who can help us drive ethical data practices forward.
We think you need these skills to ace SC Cleared Data Ethicist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Data Ethicist role. Highlight your experience with ethical frameworks and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about data ethics and how you can contribute to our mission. Keep it concise but impactful, and don’t forget to mention your SC clearance!
Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills:In this role, you'll be working closely with various teams. Make sure to highlight your communication and stakeholder engagement skills in your application. We love seeing examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get all the updates directly from us. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sanderson Government and Defence
✨Know Your Ethical Frameworks
Make sure you brush up on the ethical frameworks relevant to data and AI, like fairness, accountability, and transparency. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these principles in your previous roles, especially in government or regulated environments.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with diverse stakeholders. Highlight instances where you’ve constructively challenged decisions to ensure ethical compliance, as this will demonstrate your ability to navigate complex team dynamics.
✨Understand Regulatory Standards
Familiarise yourself with UK regulatory standards such as GDPR and ICO guidance. Be prepared to discuss how these regulations impact ethical data use and how you've ensured compliance in past projects.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving skills in ethical dilemmas. Think about real-life situations where you had to assess ethical risks or implement bias mitigation techniques, and be ready to share your thought process.
