Senior Statistical Officer

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?

There has never been a more interesting or important time to work with data and statistics across Government.

Here at the Office for National Statistics we have unrivalled access to a breadth and depth of data that we use daily to provide statistics, analysis and insight for the public and policy makers. We are at the forefront when it comes to the production of reliable data, giving trusted and unique insights into health, well-being, work, household finances, local economies, high streets and more.

At ONS we are creative about the way we work to deliver brilliant and sustainable outcomes and as we collaborate, we approach working together with positivity and trust, investing in building excellent and inclusive working relationships across the organisation.

As a statistician you would be part of the the Government Statistical Service (GSS), working 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. Working at the heart of government, 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 statistician at the ONS you will work on high profile analysis and research, in roles that really make a difference.

One exciting example is supporting the evolution of Population and Migration Statistics. Pioneering new ways to produce the highest quality independent population and migration statistics to meet the evolving needs of users, using innovative data sources and methods to inform decision making for the UK. That team will be part of the biggest shake up of the UK census since records began, making history whilst recording it.

Or maybe Crime Statistics is the area for you, our data is key to delivering the ambitions of the Government Safer Streets Mission. Using data from the Crime Survey for England and Wales and Police Recorded Crime, we publish crime levels and trends and provide important insights including violent crime, sexual offences, drug misuse, and bullying and online experiences among children.

Then there is Labour Markets and Households statistics, those outputs always receive wide range of media coverage and are vital in guiding government policies.

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.

Key responsibilities

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 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 officials and external stakeholders
• Ability to deliver quality analysis to tight deadlines, using forward planning to identify risks and issues

Qualifications

Entry Routes for this vacancy

To be eligible to apply for this Statistical Officer role, you need to fulfil the criteria of one of the following:

• 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.

Applications submitted without details of eligibility will be rejected.

Behaviours

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

Alongside your salary of £42,999, Office for National Statistics contributes £12,456 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.

The Office for National Statistics is part of the Civil Service, and as such we share a number of key benefits with other departments, whilst also having our own unique offerings to support our 5400 valued colleagues across the business.

We are committed to supporting our people’s wellbeing by offering adaptable ways of working that support a healthy work life balance. We are happy to explore opportunities with you about working adaptably in line with our hybrid working policies.

Inclusion & Accessibility

At ONS we are 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 a Disability Confident Leader, we’re committed to ensuring that all candidates are treated fairly throughout the recruitment process.

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.