Senior Data Scientist

About the job

Key information

• Hybrid working – based in Taunton.
• 30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays
• Secondment for internal candidates/fixed term for 2 years  – Please discuss a secondment with your current Line Manager before applying and obtain their approval.

What will I be doing?

We’re working to improve the lives of people in Somerset – and as a Senior Data Scientist, you’ll be at the heart of this mission. Your day-to-day work will involve:

• Lead and deliver advanced analytics
  You’ll design, develop, and deploy robust machine learning, neural network, and simulation models that drive proactive, data-informed decision-making across Somerset Council. Your models will help anticipate demand, identify risk, and optimise interventions in vital services such as social care, housing, and public health.
• Oversee complex data science projects
  You’ll manage the end-to-end delivery of high-impact data science projects, translating complex service challenges into actionable solutions. This includes setting technical standards, guiding architecture, and mentoring teams to ensure quality, alignment, and future readiness.
• Champion ethical and explainable analytics
  You’ll ensure all models are trusted, explainable, and compliant with governance standards like GDPR and DPIAs, embedding ethical analytics into operational workflows.
• Mentor and develop the data science community
  You’ll provide technical leadership and support to Data Scientists and colleagues across the organisation, sharing expertise, reviewing solutions, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, agility, and learning.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement
  You’ll stay ahead of emerging technologies, lead trials of new tools (such as real-time analytics and AI/ML integration), and help modernise our data science platform. You’ll automate testing and deployment, streamline legacy processes, and share learning through our community of practice.

Somerset Council is in the process of growing its data science team, and you will be key to steering the direction of this growing team.

What kind of experience or qualifications do I need?

We offer ongoing support, training and guidance to help you be the best you can be. But it will really help if you:

• Extensive hands-on experience in data science:
  A strong track record designing, building, and maintaining complex analytical models and data pipelines, delivering end-to-end solutions across multiple business domains and at enterprise scale.
• Deep expertise in modern data science and cloud technologies:
  Highly skilled in machine learning, statistical modelling, and cloud-based platforms (e.g., Azure ML, Microsoft Fabric), with advanced knowledge of MLOps, CI/CD for analytics, and integration patterns.
• Strong programming and problem-solving skills:
  Proficient in Python, R, SQL, and familiar with simulation and forecasting techniques, you enjoy tackling complex data challenges with creative, practical solutions.
• Leadership and mentoring abilities:
  Experience leading and supporting data science teams, setting technical standards, reviewing solutions, and guiding colleagues to deliver high-quality, secure, and privacy-compliant data products.
• Relevant qualifications and certifications:
  A Master’s degree (or equivalent experience) in Data Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field, and professional certification in cloud/data science (such as Microsoft Fabric Data Scientist).

What is in it for me?

We are proud to offer an environment that is supportive and rewarding, working as part of a team who are passionate about the work they do to improve the lives of people in Somerset.

We offer great training and development opportunities, with supportive management. As well as this, we have some fantastic employee benefits available:

• We promote a healthy work-life balance and offer flexible working arrangements wherever possible, including working from home.
• Generous annual leave allowance, with the opportunity to purchase additional leave
• Staff discounts in gyms.
• Employee Assistance for the times you may need some support and a variety of employee wellbeing services.
• Auto enrolment onto our generous Pension Scheme and optional pension enhancement through our Additional Voluntary Contribution scheme.
• A Flexible Benefits Scheme via salary sacrifice to obtain a cycle for work and health screenings.
• My Staff Shop offering discounts in shops, online shopping, restaurants, cinema tickets, insurance benefits and more

Supporting documents and information

For an informal chat about the role, you can contact Josh Pimm, Chief Data & Analytics Officer, josh.pimm@somerset.gov.uk

If you have everything you need, just hit the apply button. We can’t wait to hear from you.

When completing your application/CV please provide your full employment history and ensure that any gaps in employment are explained. Please start with your current or most recent employment.

If you have all the information you need, just hit the apply button – we can’t wait to hear from you.

Apply on the Somerset Council website

Apply now