Are you a data scientist who wants your work to directly influence decisions that affect the entire UK? HM Treasury is offering an exciting opportunity with its latest listing for Principal Data Scientist jobs. This isn’t just another data role; it’s a chance to work at the heart of government, applying your analytical skills to shape national economic strategy and public spending. If you are passionate about using data to drive real-world impact, this position within the Treasury’s innovative Data Hub could be the next step in your career.
Principal Data Scientist at HM Treasury Overview
Category |
Details |
|---|---|
Position Title |
Principal Data Scientist |
Employer |
HM Treasury |
Reference Number |
431829 |
Salary |
London: £60,670 – £67,500 National: £57,670 – £64,500 |
Job Grade |
Grade 7 |
Contract Type |
Fixed term (11 Months), Loan |
Locations |
London (1 Horse Guards Road) or Darlington (Feethams House) |
Application Deadline |
11:55 pm on Sunday, 26 October 2025 |
How to Apply |
Via the application link on the Civil Service Jobs website. |
Key Requirements |
Experience in developing and embedding data science solutions, managing quality service, and strong collaboration skills. Proficiency in statistical methodologies and creating data dashboards is essential. |
Selection Process |
An online application assessing experience and behaviours, followed by a blended interview covering behaviours and technical skills. |
Pension |
A Civil Service Pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%. |
What You’ll Actually Be Doing in this UK Government Data Science Role
As a Principal Data Scientist, you will join the Advanced Analytics team within the Treasury’s Data Hub—a center of excellence for analytics and data management. This is a leadership role where you will not just analyze data but also build the products and dashboards that senior decision-makers use to understand the economy. This is one of those rare Principal Data Scientist jobs where your work truly matters.
Your key responsibilities will include:
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Applying advanced techniques: You will use statistical modelling, machine learning, and AI to generate new insights from complex datasets on everything from budget measures to financial markets.
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Leading product development: You will take charge of developing and maintaining analytical tools using Python, Plotly Dash, and Azure, ensuring they meet the needs of users across the department.
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Building influential dashboards: You will create innovative and user-friendly data dashboards to communicate valuable insights to senior leaders and ministers.
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Collaborating across government: You will work closely with policy officials, economists, and other analysts to embed data science into core Treasury processes, a key part of UK government data science transformation.
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Mentoring and Leadership: You will provide technical leadership and line-manage one or more data scientists, contributing to the growth of data capability across HM Treasury. This is a cornerstone of rewarding HM Treasury careers.
Is This You? What We’re Looking For in a Principal Data Scientist
We are looking for a skilled professional with a passion for data and a collaborative spirit. To succeed in these Principal Data Scientist jobs, you will need:
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Proven Experience: A strong track record of developing and embedding data science solutions that help an organisation achieve its goals. This includes experience with statistical methods and creating engaging data dashboards.
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Technical Skills: Proficiency in programming and building data science solutions. We’ll assess your skills in applied maths, statistics, and scientific practices.
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Key Behaviours: We’re looking for someone who excels at “Managing a Quality Service,” “Changing and Improving,” and “Working Together.” You need to be able to collaborate effectively and drive improvements.
Your Application Journey: How to Apply via Civil Service Jobs
Applying for a role in the Civil service is designed to be fair and based on merit. Here’s what you can expect from the process, which is managed through the Civil Service Jobs portal:
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Application Form: You will be asked to demonstrate your skills and experience against the person specification. Pay close attention to the lead criteria, which is your experience.
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The Sift: If we receive a high volume of applications, we will conduct an initial sift based only on your answer to the lead experience criteria.
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The Interview: Successful candidates will be invited to a blended interview that will assess your behaviours and technical skills.
To help you prepare, HM Treasury is running two candidate drop-in sessions on Monday, 20 October and Wednesday, 22 October. There is also a candidate guidance session on Friday, 17 October. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone wondering how to apply for data science roles in government.
Why an HM Treasury Career?
Working at HM Treasury offers a unique perspective on the issues that affect everyone in the UK. With the option to be based in London or at the pioneering Darlington Economic Campus, you’ll be closer to the communities we serve. Beyond the fascinating work, you’ll receive an excellent benefits package, including a very generous Civil Service Pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%. A career at the Treasury is one of the most rewarding HM Treasury careers available in public service.
This is more than just a job; it’s a chance to be part of a team driving the future of UK government data science. If you are ready to apply your skills to some of the nation’s most pressing challenges, we encourage you to apply through the Civil Service Jobs website before the deadline.