Lead Security Data Scientist

Help protect the data of millions of UK citizens

DWP delivers services that millions of people rely on every day. Behind those services sits one of the UK's largest repositories of personal and financial data.

We're looking for a Lead Security Data Scientist to lead a specialist team using data science, machine learning, AI and advanced analytics to detect threats, uncover malicious activity and strengthen the security of critical public services.

This is an opportunity to lead at the heart of DWP's Cyber Resilience Centre (CRC), helping to protect services that support millions of citizens and form part of the UK's national critical infrastructure.

About the team

The Security Data Science team sits within DWP's Cyber Resilience Centre, bringing together expertise in data science, analytics, machine learning and automation to tackle some of the department's most complex security challenges.

The team develops innovative capabilities that help identify threats, support cyber operations and strengthen the security of DWP's systems, services and data.

What you'll be doing

As Lead Security Data Scientist, you'll set the direction for Security Data Science across DWP, shaping how data science and AI are used to support the department's cyber security objectives.

This is primarily a leadership role. You'll lead a team of talented data scientists and analysts, developing capability, setting clear standards and creating the environment for the team to thrive.

Working closely with senior stakeholders across cyber security, digital and policy teams, you'll identify where data science can deliver the greatest impact and ensure the team's work contributes directly to organisational objectives.

You'll also remain closely connected to the technical work, providing oversight and guidance across machine learning, AI and analytics initiatives. From early discovery through to deployment and continuous improvement, you'll help ensure solutions are effective, scalable and deliver real value.

What we're looking for

We're looking for an experienced data science leader who is passionate about developing people, driving innovation and solving complex problems.

You have:

• A strong background in data science, machine learning or security analytics
• Experience leading, developing and growing high-performing technical teams
• A track record of delivering AI, machine learning or analytics solutions into production
• Strong stakeholder management skills and the ability to influence at senior levels
• Experience translating complex technical concepts into clear business outcomes
• The ability to shape strategy and drive delivery within a large, complex organisation
• Knowledge of modern AI approaches, including areas such as Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG), prompt engineering, observability and evaluation

Experience in cyber security, fraud analytics, behavioural analytics or threat detection would be particularly valuable.

This role sits at the intersection of data science and cyber security. If your experience doesn't align perfectly with every requirement, we'd still encourage you to apply. Click through now for full details on Civil Service Jobs.

Why join DWP?

This is a rare opportunity to combine leadership, cyber security and advanced data science at scale.

You'll work on services that matter, tackle complex challenges, influence strategic decisions and help shape how one of the UK's largest government departments uses AI and analytics to protect critical services and citizen data.

Alongside meaningful work, you'll benefit from a competitive salary, a Civil Service Pension with employer contributions worth 28.97%, flexible hybrid working and ongoing opportunities for professional development.

DV clearance is required for this role. Applicants must either hold DV clearance or be willing to undergo the clearance process.