Ministry of Justice UK
Senior Data Scientist (Ref: 19416)
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Senior Data Scientist (Ref: 19416)
Senior Data Scientist – Justice Digital, Data and Science
Location: National (Primary offices: National & London: 10 South Colonnade, E14 4PU) Closing Date: 31 July 2026 Interviews: Rolling (10 July–14 August 2026) Grade: SEO (Existing MoJ specialists retain grade on transfer) Salary:
- National: £42,914–£46,182 (+ allowance up to £9,424)
- London: £49,325–£53,081 (+ allowance up to £7,440) Working Pattern: Full-time, part-time or flexible Contract: Permanent Vacancies: 12
About the Role
We’re recruiting for Senior Data Scientists to join Justice Digital, Data and Science (MoJ), working within Justice Data—a team dedicated to empowering the justice system with high-quality data, algorithms, and tools to drive evidence-based decisions.
The Team:
- Mission: Turn complex, fragmented data into actionable insights to improve decision-making across the justice system.
- Scale: 80+ data science professionals supporting a diverse portfolio, including:
- Splink – A cross-sector tool adopted by public, private, and academic institutions.
- Award-winning safety diagnostic tool for prisons (leveraging machine learning to combat violence).
- Criminal Justice System (CJS) dashboard, and cutting-edge projects in generative AI, NLP, and operational research.
- Culture: Collaborative, inclusive, and committed to putting evidence at the heart of policy.
Responsibilities
- Apply data science tools (ML models, statistical techniques) to build scalable, robust solutions.
- Future-proof projects with documentation, model monitoring, and reassessment schedules.
- Collaborate with data scientists using version control, DevOps practices.
- Communicate findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Stay ahead of emerging technologies in data science.
- Contribute to a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive data science community.
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Key Requirements
- Essential:
- Expertise in applying data science techniques (e.g., machine learning, AI models, statistical methods).
- Strong foundation in probability and statistics and understanding of model theory.
- Proficient Python coding (or equivalent languages with ability to learn Python quickly).
- Experience in data derivation/ manipulation (SQL or code-based).
- Ability to articulate insights clearly to mixed audiences.
- Initiative to identify data science opportunities and drive projects.
- Clean criminal record (vetting check required).
Benefits
- Civil Service Pension:
- Employer contributes 28.97% to the Defined Benefit Scheme (additional £12,432 bonus).
- Flexible Work:
- Hybrid working with partial remote availability (check this map).
- Part-time, compressed hours, parental leave (26 weeks full pay).
- Development:
- 10% personal/professional development time and £1k learning budget.
- Access to conferences, certifications, and vocational training.
- Wellbeing:
- 25 days annual leave (30+ after 5 years), 8 bank holidays, and a King’s Birthday privilege day.
- Inclusion Initiatives:
- Support for disabilities, prison leavers, and diverse talent.
- Open Book Learning Programme, family-smart policies, and altogether-aligned diversity efforts.
Person Specification
Essential:
- Data science/analytical experience.
- Python (or adaptable languages like R/Scala).
- Statistical foundations and problem-solving approach.
- Pass security vetting checks.
- Ability to fulfil job requirements for SC clearance.
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Optional but welcome:
- Familiarity with MoJ systems, policy-relevant data science.
- Advocacy for diversity and inclusion.
Recruitment Process
Stage 1: Application & Sift
- Submit:
- CV (anonymous, address criteria from this spec).
- Personal Statement (≤750 words) addressing:
- Data science/statistical experience in action.
- Python/algolang experience.
- Stakeholder communication skills.
- Sift reminder: Focus first on technical/analytical criteria if volume of apps is high.
Stage 2: Interviews & Technical Test
- Assessment: Technical test → panel interview (MS Teams).
- Score tiebreaker: Communicating and Influencing behaviour.
- Reserve List: Up to 12 months from vacancy close.
Terms for Applicants
- Nationality Eligibility: Citizens of EU off-net nations, Commonwealth, or those with pre-settled status.
- Security Note: Criminal record and security check (SC) required for all appointments.
- Controversy Warning: No plagiarism or AI-generated content in applications. Untrue material may result in withdrawal of applications.
Behind the Job:
- Salary: London/non-London bands applied starting at minimum for new entrants.
- Allowances/NPE Layers: Up to £7,440–9,424 (London/national).
- Depth Documentation: Extensive Pension, Benefits, Tech Stack, and CFI resources here.
Prove yourself. No one walks this path alone—Equality is embedded into every onboarding.
Need help? Questions? Email: digitalanddatarecruitment@justice.gov.uk Visual aids or custom assistance? Submit queries to:
- SSCL: moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@resourcing.soprasteria.co.uk
- Telephone: 0345 241 5359
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