Senior Data Analyst (Census 2031) - B3 in Edinburgh

This opportunity is only open to applicants who are currently 'Priority Movers'. Applications from individuals not currently on the Priority Mover list will be rejected and not considered.

Do you want to shape the delivery of Scotland’s Census, enabling governments and other public bodies to plan the services we all rely on, and telling the story of Scotland's people for generations to come? If so, this post could be for you.

We are the trusted producer of Scotland’s population statistics, including taking the Census of Scotland’s population every 10 years. The next Census is in 2031 and will be delivered in partnership with the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and Northern Ireland Statistics & Research Agency (NISRA). This is one of the largest digital programmes delivered in Scotland, gathering data from every household across a population of c.5.7m.

You should note that Scotland’s Census is a time limited project which will run until 2032 depending on the role. Staff who are on permanent contracts will remain with NRS after this time whilst a new, suitable role is found.

Overview of role

NRS requires a Senior Data Analyst to support the delivery of Census 2031 by leading the design and implementation of data models and analytical structures, working closely with data architecture to shape how census and administrative data is structured, integrated and used. The candidate will take a hands‑on role in developing and delivering census data models, ensuring that data is structured in a way that supports high‑quality statistical outputs, operational delivery, and integration with administrative data sources. This role combines advanced analytical expertise with practical delivery, focusing on building and implementing robust data models and transformation logic.

Responsibilities

• Design, build and maintain data models and analytical structures for Census and population data
• Translate data architecture designs into implementable data models and transformation pipelines
• Define and apply standards for structuring, transforming and quality‑assuring census data
• Develop schema designs that enable efficient querying and analysis of large‑scale demographic datasets
• Deliver data integration and linkage with administrative data sources, supporting consistency and comparability
• Implement estimation, aggregation and geographic data structures to support statistical outputs
• Document data models, metadata and transformation processes to ensure transparency and reproducibility

Qualifications

Required experience: Advanced proficiency in statistical programming (R or Python) and SQL.

How to apply

Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive B3 grade employees. Please submit a statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words). Vacancy closes at 23:59 on Tuesday 4 August.

If you have questions about your application please contact shona.mullen@nrscotland.gov.scot.

Selection Process

All applicants will be invited to an informal discussion with the hiring manager. There will be no formal testing or assessment. Discussions are expected to be scheduled for w/c TBC.

Recruitment Principles

As a government organisation, we adhere to the Civil Service Commission Recruitment Principles and we investigate any complaints received in relation to recruitment cases.

About us

The Scottish Government is the devolved government for Scotland. We have National Records of Scotland (NRS) is Scotland’s record keeper. Our purpose is to collect, preserve and produce information about Scotland's people and history and make it available to inform current and future generations. We offer rewarding careers and employ people across Scotland in a wide range of professions and roles. NRS is a Non-Ministerial Department of the Scottish Government and our staff are part of the UK Civil Service, working for Ministers and senior stakeholders to deliver vital public services which improve the lives of the people of Scotland.

We offer a supportive and inclusive working environment along with a wide range of employee benefits.

Working pattern

Candidates should note that Scotland’s Census is a time limited project which will run until 2032 depending on the role. Staff who are on permanent contracts will remain with NRS after this time whilst a new, suitable role is found. Our standard hours are 35 hours per week, and we offer a range of flexible working options depending on the needs of the role, including Flexi-leave. Candidates should note that office attendance will be needed at points in particular for collaboration sessions but there is currently no fixed set days; in addition, there may be occasional travel to other UK agencies.

Security checks

Successful candidates must complete the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), before they can be appointed. BPSS is comprised of four main pre-employment checks – Identity, Right to work, Employment History and a Criminal Record check (unspent convictions).

You can find out more about BPSS on the UK Government website, or read about the different levels of security checks in our Candidate Guide.

Equality statement

We are committed to equality and inclusion and we aim to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects the population of our nation. Find out more about our commitment to diversity and how we offer and support recruitment adjustments for anyone who needs them.

Further information

Find out more about our organisation, what we offer staff members and how to apply on our Careers Website. Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.

Apply before: 04/08/2026 (23:59)