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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Senior Data Scientist - **Company:** Optima Partners - **Location:** Edinburgh, UK - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Python (Programming Language), Machine Learning, Large Language Models - **Published:** September 10, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.collegerecruiter.com/job/2840590046-senior-data-scientist ## About the Role * Strong academic background in mathematics, statistics, science, engineering or another numerate discipline * Minimum 2:1 degree in a STEM subject, with a postgraduate qualification in a quantitative field considered beneficial * Deep knowledge of statistics, including experimental design, uncertainty quantification, causal inference and predictive modelling * Significant experience applying supervised and unsupervised machine learning techniques in commercial or client-facing environments * Advanced proficiency in Python and/or R, with experience operationalising data science solutions and working with modern data science tooling * Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex analysis clearly and confidently to technical and non-technical audiences * Strong problem-solving skills, commercial curiosity and the ability to lead work independently while supporting others in small, high-performing teams * Strong understanding of commercial value drivers such as revenue, cost, profitability, customer behaviour and operational performance * Experience mentoring junior data scientists, reviewing analytical approaches and contributing to technical standards or reusable assets ## Description We are looking for a Senior Data Scientist to lead the design and delivery of machine learning, statistical modelling and experimentation solutions that solve complex business problems and drive measurable outcomes across our client base. You will combine hands-on technical expertise with strong consulting and stakeholder skills, shaping analytical approaches, guiding delivery and translating data into clear, actionable insight., As a Senior Data Scientist, you will be a technical lead responsible for shaping, developing and implementing machine learning and statistical solutions that deliver meaningful value for our clients. You will work closely with senior stakeholders to understand business challenges, define analytical strategies, oversee delivery and turn complex outputs into clear, actionable recommendations. This is a great opportunity for an experienced data scientist to take ownership of high-impact work across multiple commercial sectors, contribute to multi-disciplinary project teams and play a visible role in growing and developing our data science practice., * Leading the development and implementation of machine learning and statistical models to solve practical, high-value business problems * Partnering with senior stakeholders to understand objectives, shape analytical approaches, influence decisions and communicate findings effectively * Translating complex technical outputs into clear, transparent and actionable recommendations that support strategic decision-making * Exploring data, testing hypotheses and identifying opportunities to create customer, operational and commercial value * Collaborating with and guiding teams across data science, engineering, strategy and design to deliver high-quality outcomes * Championing emerging data science techniques, including practical applications of Large Language Models, and helping translate them into client-ready solutions * Mentoring junior colleagues, reviewing analytical work and contributing to the development of best practice within the Advanced Data team, At Optima, you will work on varied, meaningful projects for well-known organisations while continuing to deepen your technical expertise and leadership capability. You will be part of a supportive data science community with a strong culture of continuous learning, knowledge sharing and collaboration. You will have the opportunity to shape analytical solutions across different sectors, learn from experienced practitioners, mentor others and build a career path with clear opportunities for senior development and progression. ## Related Videos - [Introduction to Azure Machine Learning](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/368-introduction-to-azure-machine-learning) - [Creating Industry ready solutions with LLM Models](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/899-creating-industry-ready-solutions-with-llm-models) - [CUDA in Python](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1294-cuda-in-python) - [Data Science in Retail](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/586-data-science-in-retail) - [Full Stack Web Apps With Nothing But Python](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/417-full-stack-web-apps-with-nothing-but-python) - [Lies, Damned Lies and Large Language Models](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1231-lies-damned-lies-and-large-language-models) ## Related Articles - [Data Analyst Salary in the UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/278-data-analyst-salary-in-the-uk) - [Data Engineer Salary UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/253-data-engineer-salary-uk) - [Data Analyst Salary Austria](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/275-data-analyst-salary-austria) - [Best Companies to work for in London: Top 25 Companies in 2023](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/187-best-companies-to-work-for-in-london-top-25-companies-in-2023) - [The Most Popular IT Jobs on the Market](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/376-the-most-popular-it-jobs-on-the-market) - [Jobs in Tech: The State of the European Market](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/575-jobs-in-tech-the-state-of-the-european-market)