Job summary

Do you have the passion, values and ability to make a real difference to solving the UK`s biggest issues through data and statistics?

The Government Statistical Service (GSS) works across the public sector to collect, analyse and publish official statistics to help government, business, and the public understand the current state of the UK economy and society.

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

This senior role will require you to take responsibility for multiple aspects of statistical production, often managing teams of analysts and non-analysts to deliver innovative results for your stake holders. Developing expertise in technical skills through further training.

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;

• create new data solutions/collections through the manipulation of multiple data sources, to better meet customer needs
• proactively engage early and often with the customer to share analytical results, and to discuss findings, taking data limitations into account.
• influence the debate and the decision-making process ensure that robust data collection is facilitated
• drive forward suitable technologies, tools and analytical techniques, leading the way in their application and acts as a main point of contact to ensure effective delivery within, and across teams
• use the most appropriate methods and tools to use to deliver analysis, confidently adapting their approach as required to effectively manipulate a variety of data sources
• take responsibility for the delivery of high quality statistical advice and analysis given by self and/or team
• build the capability of others by sharing knowledge about data sources, data manipulation and appropriate innovations within own team or across business area

Person specification

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

• proven leadership capability and experience to overcome challenges alongside managing a team and prioritising tasks in line with organisational aspirations
• demonstrable analytical experience, including a track record in the practical application of analysis or research with an in depth knowledge of data sources
• experience of managing the delivery of complex projects and delivering quality outcomes to meet customer demands
• good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate complex analysis to non-specialists and contribute effectively to discussions with ministers, senior officials and external stakeholders
• ability to deliver high impact analysis to tight deadlines, using forward planning to identify risks and issues

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:

• Delivering at Pace
• Seeing the Big Picture
• Leadership

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.

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.