Job summary

With a growing demand for analytical services, a career in statistics puts you at the heart of decision making in government.

The Government Statistical Service (GSS) is a cross-government network led by the National Statistician. The GSS works to provide advice, analysis and a statistical evidence base to help people make better decisions.

As a government statistician you will have the opportunity to work on high profile analysis and research, working at the heart of government, in roles that really make a difference. No other organisation can claim to be involved in the same breadth of work that the GSS will offer you. 

Job description

As a Senior Government Statistician you will work on high profile analysis and research, working at the heart of government, in roles that really make a difference, including; 

• supporting the transport network and infrastructure to keep the UK on the move
• safeguarding our natural environment to sustain a thriving rural economy
• supporting immigration and passports, drugs policy, crime, fire, counter-terrorism and police

The role will require you to apply your statistical skills to innovate and solve problems in data management and analysis. You will be using a range of software packages and analytical techniques, and will be able to explain and communicate your findings to a varied audience.

Whether you are hearing about us for the first time or already know a bit about us, we hope that the candidate pack attached (bottom of page) will give you a great insight into the GSS and what it means to work as a statistician

Key responsibilities

Every role in the Government Statistical Service (GSS) is as different as the departments they work in.  You will work on a breadth of projects which will require you to;

• deliver high quality statistical advice and analysis to inform debate and influence decision making
• use a range of software packages and analytical techniques
• work proactively with customers to identify their requirements, share knowledge and information
• use innovative techniques to acquire new data sources
• be responsible for statistical production and solve problems in data management and analysis
• you may also manage junior grades including non-analysts

Person specification

As a higher statistician we will be looking for your skills and experience in the following essential areas;

• proven analytical experience, including a track record in the practical application of analysis or research with an in-depth knowledge of data sources
• good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate complex analysis to non-specialists and contribute effectively to stakeholders.
• ability to deliver analysis outputs to tight deadlines contributing to statistical production
• experience of taking the leading role in a team, with the ability to overcome challenges and ensure delivery of quality business outcomes

Qualifications

To be eligible for this role you should have:

• a first- or second-class honours degree (2:2 minimum) in a numerate subject containing taught statistical content (e.g. Statistics, Data Science, Mathematics, Economics, Sciences, Psychology, Geography,).

OR

• a higher degree, for example MSc or PhD, in a subject containing formal statistical training (e.g. Statistics, Data Science, Mathematics, Economics, Sciences, Psychology, Geography).

Apprenticeships

As an apprentice you could apply if you:

• have achieved a Level 6 Data Scientist Degree Apprenticeship

OR

• have achieved a Level 4 Data Analytics apprenticeship and are able to demonstrate Continuous Professional Development via a logbook that has been signed off by an existing member of the GSG profession in the role of manager or mentor, covering 2 years in a statistical/data analysis field in government.

Experience route

Alternatively you could apply if you:

• have worked in a statistical or data science field and are able to demonstrate Continuous Professional Development (via a logbook) covering a minimum of two years. You will need to evidence how you applied statistics or data science at the same level as a foundation degree or HND (level five) and demonstrates the expected skills as outlined in the GSG Competency framework.

Please note - candidates may apply in their final year of study whilst they are still awaiting their qualification result, however, formal contracts can only be offered upon confirmation of the achievement of the relevant qualification.

In the case of a Level 4 Data Analytics apprenticeship, candidates may apply in the final six months of completing 2 years in a statistical/data analysis field in government.

Behaviors

We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

• Managing a Quality Service
• Changing and Improving
• Working Together

Technical skills

We'll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process:

• Presenting and Disseminating Data Effectively
• Acquiring Data/Understanding Customer Needs
• Data Analysis

Benefits

The Government Statistical Service is a community for all civil servants working in the collection, production and communication of official statistics. Our statisticians work across a range of government departments, agencies and other public bodies playing a pivotal role in government decision making.   We have some benefits that are relevant across all of our department, and others that are specific to certain departments, to find out more please contact our recruitment team.

As a government statistician, as well as the benefits offered by the department you are allocated to, you will:

• have opportunities to maintain your Continuous Professional Development (CPD) through a statistical learning and development programme
• earn a competitive salary with opportunities for future career progression
• work in a sector that promotes flexible working and work/life balance.
• a hybrid working model is in operation across the Civil Service. The amount of time required in the office may vary by department 
• have the ability to join a highly competitive pension scheme
• obtain membership to the Government Statistical Group GSG, a professional community of Statisticians and Data Scientists.
• be part of a diverse and inclusive GSS family.

Inclusion & Accessibility

In GSS we're always looking to attract the very best people from the widest possible talent pool, and we are proud to be an inclusive, equal opportunities employer.

As part of our application process, you will be prompted to provide details of any reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process that you need. If you would like to discuss any reasonable adjustments before applying, please contact the recruitment team in the first instance.

If you would like an accessible version of any of the attachments or recruitment documents below or linked to in this advert, please contact the recruitment team who will be happy to assist.
If you need help with any part of the application process or completing your CV or personal statement please contact our Recruitment Team at GSS.Recruitment@ons.gov.uk one of the team will be happy to help you.

Selection process details

This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviors, Experience and Technical skills.

Application Stage

Number of Stages: 2 Stage Process

Stage 1: Application and GSS Online Test

To start your application please complete the CV section and personal statement. Your CV section should cover details of education and professional qualifications, employment history and relevant skills and experience.  Please ensure you reflect on the requirements in the person specification, and where you have relevant experience include this.

Your personal statement should be no longer than 1250 words. You should use this space fully to provide evidence for each part of the Person Specification. As the criteria are scored, we would recommend that you give clear examples for each including the impact of your actions and set them out using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). 

Important - Please make sure that you fully complete the qualifications section in the application form. Applications submitted without details of degree studied, grades and credits (including predicted) will be discounted.

Applicants may utilise AI resources in their submissions; ensuring all information provided is factually accurate, truthful, and original, avoiding any form of plagiarism to maintain the authenticity and credibility of the application process.

Once you have submitted your application you will be invited via email to complete the GSS online multiple choice test. This is a timed test and must be completed and submitted by midday on the closing date to be considered for the next stage of the process. You are encouraged to try the test attached to the advert before attempting the real test. Please ensure you inform us ahead of the test if you require any reasonable adjustments to be considered.

Please note: If you are already a member of the GSG, you are exempt from sitting the GSS online test. To prevent your application being rejected please ensure you email your membership number or details to GSS.Recruitment@ons.gov.uk as soon as you submit an application to notify us. Once confirmed you will be moved onto the next stage by our recruitment team.

Stage 2 - Interview 

Should you be invited to interview, you will be assessed using various assessment techniques aligned to the Civil Service Success Profiles framework, which will include assessment of the Behaviors and GSG Technical Competencies in this advert.

Please note:

• we do not refund travel or subsistence for candidates attending interviews.
• some government departments may require a higher level security check.
• feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.

Interview Stage

Should you be invited to interview, you will be assessed using various assessment techniques aligned to the Civil Service Success Profiles framework, which will include assessment of the Behaviors and GSG Technical Competencies in this advert.

Please note:

• we do not refund travel or subsistence for candidates attending interviews.
• some government departments may require a higher level security check.
• feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.

Important Dates

Sifting will take place from W/C 17th and 24th March 2025
Interviews will be held from W/C 31st March and 7th April 2025

A reserve list may be held for period of up to 12 months from which further appointments can be made. Candidates should note this is a multi-location campaign and therefore the reserve list is recorded by location in merit order.

*Please note that Individuals will need to have lived in the UK for a sufficient period of time, usually 3-5 years, to enable appropriate checks to be carried out. Certain government departments and locations including London will require additional security clearance.

Due to the length of time onboarding can take please note if you are applying on a Student/Graduate visa this will need to be valid for at least 12 months.

GSS recruitment are unable to offer visa sponsorship through our campaigns. 

Prior to the assessment process, candidates will be sent an eligibility form to complete and return to us. Further information will be provided at the time. 

Applications from candidates who do not meet the eligibility criteria as set out in our advert may not be progressed. 

Some departments encourage applications from Welsh speakers. If you would like to know more please contact us.

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.

Security

Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.

Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is security check (opens in a new window).

See our vetting charter (opens in a new window).

People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.

Nationality requirements

This job is broadly open to the following groups:

• UK nationals
• nationals of the Republic of Ireland
• nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
• individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
• Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service