Statistical Officer

Are you looking for a fresh challenge that will really put your statistical skills to the test?

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.

The role will require you to apply your statistical skills to innovate and solve problems in data management and analysis. You will be using a range of software packages and analytical techniques. The ability to explain and communicate your findings to a varied audience will also be essential.

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.

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:

• Apply analytical and research techniques, demonstrating strong practical experience and an in‑depth understanding of relevant data sources.
• Manage your own workload effectively, contributing to the timely and accurate production of statistical outputs.
• Communicate complex analysis clearly, using strong interpersonal skills to convey findings to non‑specialist audiences and engage constructively with stakeholders.
• Work collaboratively within a team, delivering high‑quality statistical advice and analysis, often under tight deadlines.

To be eligible for this role 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).

Apprenticeships

As an apprentice you can apply if you:

• have achieved a Level 4 Data Analytics apprenticeship and are able to demonstrate Continuous Professional Development via a logbook that has been signed off by an existing member of the GSG profession in the role of manager or mentor, covering 2 years in a statistical/data analysis field in government.

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.

In the case of a Level 4 Data Analytics apprenticeship, candidates may apply in the final six months of completing 2 years in a statistical/data analysis field in government.

This job is broadly open to the following groups:

• UK nationals
• nationals of the Republic of Ireland
• nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
• individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
• Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service

Further information on nationality requirements (opens in a new window)

This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Experience and Technical skills.

This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Experience and Technical skills.

Important: Please check your eligibility before applying

• Successful candidates will usually need to have lived in the UK for a sufficient period, typically 3 to 5 years, to allow security checks to be completed. Some departments and locations may require additional clearance.
• If you are applying with a Student or Graduate visa, it must be valid for at least 18 months at the point of application.
• GSS Recruitment is unable to offer visa sponsorship through this campaign.

Application Stage

Number of Stages: 2 Stage Process

Stage 1: Application and GSS Online Test

To apply you will need to complete:

• Your CV, including details of your qualifications, employment history, skills and experience.
• A personal statement of up to 1,250 words.
• The GSS online multiple-choice test (unless exempt as an existing GSG member).

Important: You must fully complete the qualifications section of the application form, including degree subject, classification, and grade (including predicted results where applicable). Applications with incomplete qualification details may not be progressed.

Your personal statement should provide evidence against each part of the Person Specification. As all criteria are scored, we recommend using clear examples that demonstrate your actions and the impact you achieved.

The GSS online test is a timed assessment and must be completed by midday on the closing date. We strongly recommend reviewing the practice test attached to the advert before taking the live assessment.

If you require reasonable adjustments, please contact us before sitting the test.

Current GSG Members

If you are already a member of the Government Statistician Group (GSG), you are exempt from the GSS online test. Please email your membership number or details to GSS.Recruitment@ons.gov.uk when you submit your application. Once your membership has been verified, your application will progress to the next stage.

Candidates who are successful at the application and test stage will be asked to complete an eligibility form before progressing to interview. Further information will be provided at that stage.

Applications from candidates who do not meet the advertised eligibility requirements may not be progressed.

Stage 2: Assessment

Should you be invited to interview, you will be assessed using various assessment techniques aligned to the Civil Service Success Profiles framework, which will include assessment of the Behaviours and GSG Technical Competencies in this advert.

Please note:

• Travel and subsistence expenses for interviews will not be reimbursed.
• Some departments may require a higher level of security clearance.
• Feedback is only provided to candidates who attend an interview or assessment.

Campaign Timeline

• Sift: W/C 12th October 2026
• Interviews: W/C 26th October 2026

Additional Information

• A reserve list may be held for up to 12 months. As this is a multi-location campaign, reserve lists will be maintained by location in merit order.
• Some departments encourage applications from Welsh speakers. Please contact us if you would like further information.

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.