Senior Statistical Officer - National

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.

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

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.

*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.

Please note if you are applying on a Student/Graduate visa, this will need to be valid for at least 12 months.