What the people say...
Assistant Statisticians in the Scottish Government take on a significant level of responsibility for their area of work. The abilitity for our profession to provide information that is both relevant and objective has clear implications for the effectiveness of the devolved government in Scotland. Government Statisticians work alonside researchers and economists to produce the broad range of analytical information that government needs to support effective decision making. If you want to join us then please take a look at our main Recruitment page for further information.
Here's what some Assistants have to say about their work...
I joined the Scottish Government in 2003. After a post in the Environment and Rural Affairs Department, I moved to the Health Department. My current post involves working on NHS performance targets such as the reduction of cancer waiting times. The job is both challenging and extremely varied. There is also a strong sense of relevance and purpose of being involved with issues that affect real people's lives. The Scottish Government is also highly committed to helping you develop your career. I am currently studying towards an MSc in Applied Statistics for which I receive funding and a generous study entitlement.
James Boyce, October 2007
Since joining the Scottish Government in 2004 I have worked on income and poverty statistics. The post has offered me the chance to work with a variety of people both inside and outside the Scottish Government, including analysts, policy colleagues, Ministers, the media, and my counterparts in other government departments, such as Department for Work and Pensions. There are lots of opportunities to develop your career in a supportive environment, and work in a variety of posts.
Ellen Lynch, April 2007
I work in Statistical Support for Local Government, having joined the Government in 2005. I monitor councils' income and expenditure, council tax collection and model business rates. I excel in Excel and have become a black belt in various other programming disciplines. I have also become alarmingly blasé about dealing with nine-figure sums of money! Occasionally my work appears in the media, which is always exciting. There are excellent opportunities to network with other statisticians in the Government, from seminars to nights out, which creates a friendly and fun working environment.
Tim Parris, February 2007
I work within the Education Department dealing with SQA Examination data. I particularly enjoy the diversity my job offers. I am responsible for publications and website updates as well as requests from Ministers, colleagues and the public. I am also leading a small consultation on the presentation of our attainment statistics. The opportunity to move posts regularly allows you to gain knowledge of other departments whilst expanding your statistical skills. There are also a wide range of training courses available.
Sara Conroy, November 2006