Higher Statistical Officer

Job summary

Are you passionate about using data to understand society, inform decisions and make a real difference to people’s lives? With demand for analytical skills growing rapidly across government, a career in statistics puts you at the heart of decision‑making on some of the UK’s most important challenges.

The Government Statistical Service (GSS) is a cross‑government network led by the National Statistician. We provide high‑quality analysis, advice and a trusted evidence base that supports government, businesses and the public to make better decisions. Our work covers every corner of public life, giving you a unique opportunity to influence issues that matter.

As a Government Statistician, you’ll work on high‑profile analysis and research at the centre of government. Nowhere else will you find the same breadth of topics, range of career paths or ability to make an impact early on. Whether you’re a recent graduate or bringing experience from another field, this is your chance to use your statistical skills to help shape the UK’s future.

Job description

As a Government Statistician, you’ll apply your analytical and problem‑solving skills to real‑world questions, helping provide the evidence that underpins some of the most critical decisions facing the country. You’ll work on a wide range of topics, including:

• Supporting the transport network and infrastructure to keep the UK moving.
• Protecting and managing the natural environment, helping sustain a thriving rural economy.
• Contributing to policy areas such as immigration, crime, policing, counter‑terrorism and public safety.

Your role will involve designing innovative solutions, managing and analysing data, and using a variety of software tools and statistical techniques. You’ll be encouraged to explore new methods, think creatively and challenge existing approaches, ensuring our analysis remains robust, modern and impactful.

Communication is a vital part of the job. You’ll explain technical findings in clear, accessible language to non‑experts, helping ensure that your work informs decisions and leads to meaningful action. You will work in a supportive environment with opportunities to develop your skills, collaborate with experienced analysts and build a rewarding long‑term career in government statistics.

Whether you’re hearing about the GSS for the first time or already familiar with the profession, the candidate pack (available at the bottom of the page) offers further insight into what it means to work as a statistician in government and the difference you can make.

Key responsibilities

Every role in the Government Statistical Service (GSS) is unique — shaped by the department and the projects you support. In this role, you will:

• Deliver high‑quality statistical advice and analysis, helping to inform debate and support evidence‑based decision‑making.
• Use a range of analytical tools, software packages and statistical techniques to manage, interpret and present data effectively.
• Work proactively with stakeholders, understanding their requirements and sharing knowledge to ensure analysis meets their needs.
• Support the development of new data sources, using innovative approaches to acquire, assess and integrate data.
• Contribute to the production of official statistics, helping to solve problems in data management, quality assurance and analysis.
• Support the wider team, and where appropriate, manage or guide junior staff, including non‑analysts.

Person specification

As a higher statistician we will be looking for your skills and experience in the following essential areas;

• proven analytical experience, including a track record in the practical application of analysis or research with an in-depth knowledge of data sources
• good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate complex analysis to non-specialists and contribute effectively to stakeholders.
• ability to deliver analysis outputs to tight deadlines contributing to statistical production
• experience of taking the leading role in a team, with the ability to overcome challenges and ensure delivery of quality business outcomes

Qualifications

There are two eligibility routes for applicants:

Qualifications route
To apply you should have:
• a first- or second-class honours degree (2:2 minimum) in a numerate subject containing taught statistical content (e.g. Statistics, Data Science, Mathematics, Economics, Sciences, Psychology, Geography,).
OR
• a higher degree, for example MSc or PhD, in a subject containing formal statistical training (e.g. Statistics, Data Science, Mathematics, Economics, Sciences, Psychology, Geography).

Experience route
Alternatively you could apply if you:
• have worked in a statistical or data science field and are able to demonstrate Continuous Professional Development (via a logbook) covering a minimum of three years. You will need to evidence how you applied statistics or data science at the same level as a foundation degree or HND (level five) and demonstrates the expected skills as outlined in the GSG Competency framework.

Please note - candidates may apply in their final year of study whilst they are still awaiting their qualification result, however, formal contracts can only be offered upon confirmation of the achievement of the relevant qualification.

Behaviours

We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

• Managing a Quality Service
• Changing and Improving
• Working Together

Technical skills

We'll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process:

• Presenting and Disseminating Data Effectively
• Acquiring Data/Understanding Customer Needs
• Data Analysis

Benefits

The Government Statistical Service is a community for all civil servants working in the collection, production and communication of official statistics. Our statisticians work across a range of government departments, agencies and other public bodies playing a pivotal role in government decision making. We have some benefits that are relevant across all of our department, and others that are specific to certain departments, to find out more please contact our recruitment team.

As a government statistician, as well as the benefits offered by the department you are allocated to, you will:

• have opportunities to maintain your Continuous Professional Development (CPD) through a statistical learning and development programme
• earn a competitive salary with opportunities for future career progression
• work in a sector that promotes flexible working and work/life balance.
• a hybrid working model is in operation across the Civil Service. The amount of time required in the office may vary by department
• have the ability to join a highly competitive pension scheme
• obtain membership to the Government Statistical Group GSG, a professional community of Statisticians and Data Scientists.
• be part of a diverse and inclusive GSS family.

Inclusion & Accessibility

In GSS we're always looking to attract the very best people from the widest possible talent pool, and we are proud to be an inclusive, equal opportunities employer.

As part of our application process, you will be prompted to provide details of any reasonab