Data Science Consultant (Defence & National Security)

Salary: £34,000 – £53,500 pa DOE
Hours: Full-time, permanent (Standard 40 hours per week)
Location: Hybrid (Remote with frequent on-site requirements)
Security Clearance: UK National willing/eligible for DV

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About Decision Lab

Decision Lab is an award-winning technology consultancy. We use cutting-edge data science, machine learning, and mathematical modelling to solve some of the most complex challenges facing the UK’s Defence and National Security (D&NS) sectors. We pride ourselves on turning deep technical expertise into real-world, actionable client value.

The Role

We are seeking a talented and driven Data Science Consultant to join our expanding Defence & National Security team. In this hybrid role, you will design, build, and deploy scalable data pipelines and AI/ML solutions that directly support vital national security projects.

This position offers a unique blend of technical development, client interaction, and the opportunity to rapidly accelerate your personal and professional growth within a collaborative, agile environment.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Expertise & Capability

  • Development & Pipeline Building: Write high-quality Python code to develop data analytics and data science applications. Design, build, and maintain scalable, production-ready data engineering pipelines.
  • Cloud Infrastructure: Utilise AWS-based infrastructure and services to deploy and manage data workflows.
  • AI & Machine Learning: Evaluate and implement a variety of AI and ML solutions to solve complex client problems, integrating models smoothly into production systems.
  • Data Visualisation: Apply creative visualisation techniques to design impactful, intuitive data visuals and dashboards.
  • Agile Standards: Adhere to strict coding quality standards and collaborate effectively as part of an agile software development team.

Client Value & Stakeholder Impact

  • Value Translation: Articulate how technical features deliver specific business value. Present your work effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, adapting your language accordingly.
  • Requirement Gathering: Ask sharp, clarifying questions to ensure a profound understanding of client needs and project briefs.
  • Business Growth: Support the Account Manager in networking and growing relationships within client organisations.

Teamwork, Problem Solving & Innovation

  • Collaboration: Engage with cross-functional, multi-disciplinary teams to meet user needs and facilitate collaborative project discussions.
  • Innovation: Investigate and resolve complex issues by evaluating diverse options. Contribute to the team’s innovation process and facilitate creative thinking workshops.
  • Continuous Learning: Rapidly absorb new information and technologies. Maintain an understanding of emerging practices, drive your own development plan, and deliver learning activities (e.g., ‘show & tells’, demos) for internal teams and clients.

Skills & Requirements

Essential

  • Education: A degree, apprenticeship, or equivalent experience in a relevant subject. Relevant subjects involve any of the following: computer science, software development, engineering, mathematics, statistics, data analysis, or model development.
  • Technical Stack: Fluency in the Python data stack (numpy, pandas, scikit-learn, etc.) with demonstrable experience working with these technologies.
  • Cloud: Practical experience using AWS-based infrastructure and services.
  • Communication: Exceptional ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly to non-technical audiences.
  • Domain Interest: A strong interest in, and understanding of, data analytics and data science.
  • Nationality: Must be a UK National, eligible and willing to obtain Developed Vetting (DV) Clearance.

Preferred

  • Experience with advanced AI and/or Machine Learning techniques.
  • Experience building robust data pipelines.
  • Familiarity with core software engineering best practices (e.g., unit testing, version control/Git, and writing modularised, clean code).
  • Experience working in multi-disciplinary teams with an interest in developing leadership qualities.

What We Offer

  • The chance to work on high-impact projects critical to UK National Security.
  • A clearly defined path for personal growth and technical progression.
  • A highly collaborative, innovative, and supportive team culture.
  • Competitive benefits and remuneration package.

How to Apply

If you are a driven Data Science Consultant ready to apply your technical skills to mission-critical national security projects, we would love to hear from you.

Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the role to recruitment@decisionlab.co.uk or click below.

Apply Now