Data Science and Innovation Officer

Durham County Council

  • Spennymoor, County Durham
  • Permanent
  • Part-time
  • 13 days ago
Are you passionate about turning data into actionable insights that drive innovation and efficiency? We’re looking for a forward-thinking Data Science and Innovation Officer to join our exciting data transformation journey and help shape advanced data-driven decision-making across the Council.In this pivotal role, you’ll work alongside Data Engineers and Analysts to unlock the potential of complex datasets, applying advanced modelling techniques, machine learning, and programming to solve real-world challenges. Your work will directly influence strategic decisions, improve operational performance, and enhance customer satisfaction.WHAT IS INVOLVED?In this key role you will:
  • Collaborate with senior leaders to identify opportunities for data-led solutions.
  • Develop innovative analytical models and algorithms to uncover trends and insights.
  • Integrate new datasets and work closely with performance, data and data engineering teams to enhance infrastructure.
  • Promote ethical data practices and ensure robust risk management.
  • Support staff development in data science awareness and innovation.
We encourage you to contact Steven Evans, Head of Corporate Affairs via email at to arrange an informal discussion about the role.WHAT WILL I NEED?We are looking for a creative problem-solver with strong programming and statistical modelling skills.You will need:
  • Degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science or related field or substantial relevant experience
  • Experience as a data engineer, software developer or data analyst.
  • A proven ability to develop predictive models and translate data into meaningful insights.
  • A collaborative mindset with a passion for innovation and continuous improvement.
Join us and be part of a team that’s transforming how we use data to deliver smarter services and better outcomes for our communities.Please refer to the attached person specification for the full criteria.BENEFITS AND REWARDSWe offer generous rewards and benefits that are designed to help you perform at your best:
  • Competitive salaries and 27 days holiday per year rising to 32 days after five years continuous local government service.
  • Option to purchase up to 10 additional days annual leave per year.
  • Excellent work/life balance through schemes including job sharing, compressed hours and flexi-time (allowing up to 13 flexi days per year).
  • Hybrid working (home and office working).
  • Excellent contributory career average Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS). Plus, top up options - Salary Sacrifice Shared Cost AVC scheme and standard AVC scheme for members of the LGPS.
  • Wellbeing Portal and access to an Employee Assist Scheme.
  • Wide range of learning and development opportunities including professional qualifications, coaching and mentoring.
  • Employee Benefits Portal and Lifestyle Savings Scheme (discounts across a host of major retailers).
  • Discounted DCC gym membership.
  • Staff networks run by staff for our staff, including Race Equality and Diversity, Disability, LGBT+, Armed Forces, Carers, Menopause.
  • Trade Union membership.
  • A range of other salary sacrifice schemes such as car leasing.
Rewards and benefits are subject to individual terms and conditions. Take a closer look:SOCIAL MEDIADon’t see the perfect role for you right now? Keep an eye on our social media channels for updates on new opportunities at Durham County Council!Follow us on InstagramLike us on FacebookHYBRID WORKINGDurham County Council currently operates a hybrid working policy where a model of 2 days in the workplace and 3 days at home/remote will apply. This model is pro-rated for part time roles and arrangements are at managers discretion, alternatively you can work all of your contracted hours within the workplace if you prefer.EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSIONWe are a proud equal opportunities employer and recognise that a diverse, talented workforce brings new ideas and new perspectives, which will facilitate growth and improvements to services.We are committed to ensuring that our employment policies and processes are fair and equitable to all. We welcome job applications from everyone, and successful candidates are considered only on their skills and ability to do the job.As a Disability Confident Leader, we encourage applications from disabled people and provide support throughout the recruitment process.Take a closer look:INTERVIEWSInterviews will be held week commencing 29 September 2025.We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants that can show they meet all the essential criteria and have indicated they have a disability, are a looked after young person, care leaver or a veteran.HOW TO APPLYIn line with the County Council's Recruitment and Selection Policy, please note that we are unable to accept CVs. Applications must be submitted on-line via the Northeast Jobs portal.Please use the ‘Person Specification’ section of your application form to demonstrate that you have the essential and where possible, desirable experience, skills, and knowledge. Candidates who do not evidence that they meet the essential qualifications and experience listed on the person specification will not be short-listed.If you have any support needs or require assistance when applying for this role, please contact the Recruitment Team via email on or telephone 03000 262727 – Option 3.PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL COMMUNICATION REGARDING YOUR APPLICATION FOR THIS POST WILL BE SENT TO THE EMAIL ADDRESS THAT YOU HAVE REGISTERED WITH NORTH EAST JOBS, INCLUDING YOUR INVITE TO INTERVIEW IF YOU ARE SHORTLISTED. PLEASE CHECK YOUR EMAIL AFTER THE CLOSING DATE FOR NOTIFICATION FROM AS YOU WILL NOT BE NOTIFIED BY ANY OTHER MEANS. PLEASE ENSURE YOU CHECK YOUR JUNK MAIL.We collect personal information from you when you register with North East Jobs and make an application. Details on how we process your personal data is available in our Privacy Notice

Durham County Council