AMS PSR

On behalf of Network Rail, we are looking for a ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA SCIENCE SPECIALIST for an initial 6 month contract based in London.

Network Rail is at the heart of revitalising Britain’s railway. From Crossrail – Europe’s largest civil engineering project – to investment in world-class stations and major programmes of electrification, we are involved in some of the most ambitious and diverse ventures that this country has ever seen. We at Network Rail are dedicated to becoming one of Britain's best employers and believe this starts with placing the candidate at the heart of everything we do!

Job Purpose

This role will leverage advanced analytics and machine learning to deliver data-driven insights that improve operational efficiency and inform strategic decisions across the organisation. The role is responsible for developing innovative analytical models, utilising cutting-edge technologies, and contributing to transformative initiatives within the railway sector. Through collaboration with cross-functional teams, the AI & Data Science Specialist supports GBRX in driving meaningful, measurable improvements in performance and business outcomes.

As Artificial Intelligence & Data Science Specialist, your main responsibilities will be:

• Designs and implements advanced machine learning models to analyse complex operational, infrastructure, and performance datasets, generating insights that enhance efficiency and support strategic decision-making.
• Critically interrogates and validates existing datasets within IT systems leveraged by the AI Incubator, enabling data quality, relevance, and suitability for analytical and modelling activities.
• Collaborates with the GBRX data management team to maintain and evolve data ontologies, supporting data structures to remain accurate, scalable, and aligned with emerging AI capabilities and organisational needs.
• Utilises advanced analytical techniques to forecast operational performance and generate evidence-based recommendations that inform planning, maintenance strategies, asset optimisation, and customer service improvements.
• Contributes to continuous improvement of data science workflows, tools, and frameworks by evaluating new approaches, automating processes, and streamlining analytical delivery.
• Provide input and guidance on the prioritisation and governance of AI and data science projects, helping maintain alignment with organisational objectives and ethical standards. Act as a subject matter resource to support decision-making and encourage best practices across the business
• Drive engagement with senior stakeholders to identify high-value opportunities for data science applications. Translate complex analytical insights into actionable strategies that support innovation, operational improvement, and long-term business transformation.
• Engages in ongoing professional development to stay current with emerging data science methodologies, technologies, and industry best practices.
• Communicates insights and analytical findings to stakeholders through clear, compelling presentations

Essential: 

• Proven experience in data science, machine learning, or a related field.
• Strong programming skills in languages such as Python or R, with experience in data visualisation tools.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a collaborative mindset.

Desirable:

• A degree (or equivalent qualification) in a STEM discipline (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) or a closely related field such as Data Science, Computer Science, or Statistics..
• Familiarity with the railway sector and its operational challenges is a plus

Please be aware that this role can only be worked within the UK and not Overseas.

Network Rail is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. They welcome applications from everyone.

Disability Confident

As a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, Network Rail guarantees to interview all candidates who have a disability and who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of candidates who have a disability who meet all the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group. This scheme encourages candidates with a disability and/or neurodivergence to apply. In exceptional circumstances, we may also need to apply the desirable criteria in our shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.

Armed Forces Covenant

Network Rail guarantees to interview veterans or spouses / partners of military personnel who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of ex-military candidates / military spouses or partners, who meet all of the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group. In exceptional circumstances, we may also need to apply the desirable criteria in our shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.

In applying for this role, you acknowledge the following "this role falls in scope of the Off Payroll Working in the Public Sector legislation. Any rates of payment quoted will reflect the gross rate per day for the assignment and will be subject to appropriate taxes and statutory costs. As such the payment to the intermediary and your income resulting from this contract will be different".