Data Science Specialist (Cheltenham, Cheltenham, United Kingdom)

This opportunity with BT presents a compelling career path for experienced professionals in the Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI) field. The role is positioned within a specialized security team that plays a critical role in protecting national infrastructure and global communities. As "The Protectors," BT is at the forefront of combating thousands of cyber-attacks daily, ensuring the safety and security of millions.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful and Mission-Driven Work: You will contribute to vital, large-scale projects with significant national and global impact. The work is described as innovative, inspiring, and technologically challenging, ensuring a dynamic and stimulating work environment.
• Leadership and Development Opportunity: This role offers the chance to lead and develop an agile team of data scientists. You will be instrumental in maturing BT's data science capability, acting as a leader in data exploitation and building internal expertise.
• Exposure to Cutting-Edge Projects and Tools: Candidates can expect to work on rare projects, utilizing exciting tools and collaborating with brilliant individuals. The emphasis on innovative solutions and emerging trends in AI and machine learning promises continuous learning.
• Unparalleled Professional Development: BT offers extensive professional and personal development opportunities, investing in employee growth and career advancement.
• Strategic Involvement: Beyond technical delivery, the role has a strategic dimension, requiring you to identify high-impact opportunities and engage across the wider organization, providing visibility and influence.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: The role comes with a competitive salary, on-target bonus, a robust pension scheme, on-call allowances, generous annual leave, and a wide array of flexible benefits. Notably, BT offers progressive family leave and enhanced women's health support, reflecting a commitment to employee well-being.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Security Clearance Requirement: A significant requirement for this role is the eligibility to obtain DV Security Clearance. This necessitates living in the UK for at least 10 years. Candidates who do not meet this criterion may not be considered.
• Onsite Presence: The role is based in Manchester, Ipswich, or Cheltenham and requires a full-time, 5-day-per-week onsite presence in the office.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong skills in Data Analysis, Programming (Python, Scala/Java), Scripting, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, and Statistical Analysis are essential. Experience with specific libraries and frameworks like Pandas, NumPy, scikit-learn, TensorFlow, and PyTorch, along with basic DevOps and Linux skills, will be highly valued.
• Leadership Experience: While not explicitly stated as a mandatory prerequisite, the description emphasizes leading and developing a team, suggesting that prior leadership experience would be a strong asset.
• Embrace Continuous Learning: The fast-evolving nature of cybersecurity and AI means that a commitment to continuous learning and sharing knowledge on emerging trends is crucial for success.

This position is ideal for a seasoned data scientist or AI leader looking to make a substantial impact within a critical national security context. It offers a unique blend of challenging technical work, strategic influence, and significant opportunities for professional growth, all within a supportive and values-driven organization.