Introduction
The Testing Operations division is responsible for the day to day running of the national testing programme. We currently sit within Test and Trace, but are soon to become part of the UK Health Security Agency. Demand and Capacity Modelling provides the authoritative view of short, medium and long-term demand and capacity for testing, in order to support strategic planning, procurement and operational decision-making.
Demand and Capacity Modelling is a mixed profession team of analysts, data scientists and developers, working with stakeholders across Test and Trace and across government on influential and exciting analysis over all time scales, from next-day operational decisions to long term planning scenarios and value for money.
We’re looking for experienced modellers to help build the next generation of models and tools so we can strengthen our existing modelling capabilities.

1. Demand Model - Developer
   Job brief
   You would join our Demand Model Development team to help us maintain and improve a suite of models projecting demand for the Test and Trace programme. You’ll be part of a cross-functional modelling team that’s responsible for the full software development life cycle, from conception to deployment.
   Your role will include designing new models and converting existing models into production-standard Python code housed on an Azure platform.

Your primary responsibilities will include:
• Writing effective, scalable code in Python.
• Maintaining and improving our modelling of all factors which can influence testing demand
• Production of technical documentation
• Adherence with all relevant data and physical security policies
• Coordinate with other teams to understand user requirements and provide technical solutions

Role requirements
You will be a technically strong individual with a good eye for detail. You’ll have experience in designing, producing, testing and improving Python code and in using version control tools such as Git. A background in epidemiology is a strong plus, as interpreting recent trends in Covid and other respiratory infections, and considering longer term implications, is key to our modelling. We’re looking for talented, creative, people who thrive in a collaborative and supportive team environment.

Essential Requirements
• Hands-on experience of code development in Python
• Knowledge of fundamental python libraries such as Pandas, Numpy and matplotlib
• Knowledge of Git is a must-have, better if already comfortable using GitHub
• Experience of interrogating relational databases using SQL
• Experience of working to rigorous quality assurance and documentation processes
• Collaborative approach to working with team members to deliver solutions at pace
• Advanced problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Great attention to detail

Desirable requirements
• Knowledge of/experience creating epidemiological models
• Experience of working in Agile development environments
• Experience of working with cloud-based analytics platforms and tools (especially Azure)
• Working knowledge of Data Science models and techniques

How to Apply
Please send your CV to james.hutt@dhsc.gov.uk along with a brief ( < 500 words) email explaining your interest in the role. We will arrange a quick chat with a member of the team to discuss your suitability for the team and answer any questions you may have.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, so please don’t delay in applying. The deadline for this current recruitment round will be 30th October.

All roles offered will be on Contractor terms. Day rates will be competitive and negotiated individually based on professional and academic experience.
You must be available to work for a minimum of 3 months.

If you would like to speak to a member of the team before applying to find our more please send an email with a brief description of your background and we will be in touch.