At a Glance
- Tasks: Use data science techniques to drive insights and support customer-focused projects.
- Company: Join UCAS, the leading admissions service connecting students to higher education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, 30 days leave, and wellness support.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education by leveraging data for better decision-making.
- Qualifications: Degree in a numerate field and experience with Python or R.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
UCAS is at the heart of connecting people to higher education. We provide application services for UK universities and colleges as well as delivering a wide range of research, consultancy and advisory services to schools, colleges, careers services, professional bodies and employers. We’re a successful and fast-growing organisation, which helps hundreds of thousands of people every year. We are committed to delivering a first-class service to all of our customers — they are at the heart of everything we do.
The Digital Services business unit is at the heart of UCAS’ technical innovation, data and infrastructure. It focuses on leveraging data science, technology, and enterprise architecture to enhance UCAS' digital products and services. The unit is dedicated to developing and improving customer-centric digital solutions, ensuring seamless and secure online experiences for all users. By providing insightful data and analysis, often made available to anyone with free-to-use intuitive dashboard, Digital Services empowers the Higher Education sector and those interested in the sector with valuable information to make informed decisions.
The Data Scientist will be part of a team responsible for using critical thinking and data science techniques to support a wide range of customer outputs, including data product development, live data services, data consultancy, marketing optimisation, digital behaviour analysis and policy research. The Data Scientist will leverage the power of statistical analysis and machine learning to maximise the value of UCAS’ data asset. This role will support the delivery of products, services and analysis of time, cost, and quality. You will champion excellence and professionalism in Data Science and have the customer focus and curiosity to use data in new and exciting applications, while communicating this clearly externally and with a wider audience within the business.
Key accountabilities:- Explore existing and new data sets, and use a range of techniques including data visualisation, statistical analysis, unsupervised and supervised machine learning, and an enquiring mindset to derive valuable insights from data and communicate these effectively internally and externally.
- Deliver high value analytical products and services to time and quality.
- Support live products in running effectively and consistently, while continually looking forward to their continuous improvement through increased power of analytical insight.
- Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in a numerate discipline, such as mathematics, statistics, computer science, operational research, data science, or a related field, or be able to demonstrate knowledge and work experience to an equivalent level.
- Good working knowledge of programming in Python and/or R (or equivalents) and the ability to write readable, efficient code.
- A collaborative nature and the ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences.
- A natural curiosity and drive to find things out that really matter from data.
- Commercially aware and user-focused.
- A high level of numerate, analytical, and logical thinking.
- Proven experience of developing, testing, and deploying statistical, numerical and/or machine-learning models.
- Proven experience in using data science to deliver improved business outcomes.
- Experience of data visualisation tools is desirable.
- Experience of coaching peers or junior members of staff.
- Salary up to £37,000.
- Purpose-driven work in a charity-led organisation connecting people to education and opportunity.
- Internal training, mentoring, and access to industry-recognised certifications through our development academies.
- Hybrid working model built on trust and flexibility, with a 35-hour week and flexible contracts.
- 30 days annual leave, 3 concessionary days over Christmas, bank holidays, and the option to purchase additional leave.
- Everyday wellbeing support through Perkbox, offering discounts and wellness tools.
- Onsite facilities including a subsidised gym, café, and free parking at our Cheltenham office.
- Inclusive culture supported by employee networks, wellbeing champions, and Mental Health First Aiders.
- Recognition and reward through our quarterly employee scheme and an ex-gratia bonus for going above and beyond.
Studies have shown that some groups of people are less likely to apply to a role unless they tick every box. At UCAS we recognise that talent comes in various forms and we are committed to delivering a fair and equitable recruitment process where applicants have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their skills. So, if you are interested in this vacancy, but don’t necessarily meet every single point on the job description, please apply. If you have any questions and would like to find out more about the role before applying please email the Talent Acquisition team via careers@ucas.ac.uk.
Data Scientist in Gloucester employer: UCAS
UCAS is an exceptional employer, offering a purpose-driven work environment that connects individuals to higher education opportunities. With a strong commitment to employee growth through internal training and mentoring, as well as a flexible hybrid working model, UCAS fosters a collaborative and inclusive culture. Located in Cheltenham, employees benefit from onsite facilities, generous leave policies, and a supportive atmosphere that prioritises wellbeing and recognition.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Scientist in Gloucester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at UCAS on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your data science skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with Python, R, and machine learning techniques. Show us how you can turn data into actionable insights!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just talk about your technical skills; highlight your collaborative nature too! UCAS values teamwork, so share examples of how you've worked effectively in multi-disciplinary teams.
✨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 being part of the UCAS mission to connect students with opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Scientist in Gloucester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Data Scientist role. Highlight your experience with data analysis, machine learning, and any relevant programming skills in Python or R. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your passion for data science and how you can contribute to UCAS. Be sure to mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your analytical skills and customer focus.
Show Off Your Projects:If you've worked on any cool data projects, don’t hold back! Include links to your GitHub or any dashboards you've created. We love seeing practical examples of your work and how you’ve used data to drive insights.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at UCAS!
How to prepare for a job interview at UCAS
✨Know Your Data Science Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your data science techniques, especially in statistical analysis and machine learning. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've applied these skills, as UCAS will be looking for practical examples of how you've derived insights from data.
✨Show Off Your Coding Skills
Since programming in Python or R is key for this role, practice writing clean and efficient code. You might be asked to solve a coding problem during the interview, so be prepared to demonstrate your coding abilities and explain your thought process.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
UCAS values effective communication with both technical and non-technical audiences. Prepare to explain complex data concepts in simple terms. Think about how you can showcase your collaborative nature and ability to work in multi-disciplinary teams.
✨Be Curious and Customer-Focused
Demonstrate your natural curiosity and drive to uncover valuable insights from data. Think of examples where you've used data to improve business outcomes or enhance user experiences. Show that you understand the importance of being customer-centric in your approach.
