Lead Data Scientist

Northern Ireland Water Limited; Belfast; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading AI and data science organization in Belfast is seeking a hands-on Lead Data Scientist. In this role, you will take ownership of complex machine learning programmes while mentoring a growing data science team. Applicants should have over 8 years of experience in data science, a strong track record in deploying ML systems, and practical experience with large language models. The position involves meaningful work, focusing on real-world AI systems rather than just dashboards.

Qualifications

• 8+ years' experience in data science, machine learning, or applied AI.
• Strong track record delivering ML systems into production.
• Experience mentoring or leading other data scientists.
• Practical experience with LLMs / GenAI.
• Background in computer vision, NLP, or statistical modelling.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of complex ML programmes.
• Guide technical direction of projects.
• Support development of a growing data science team.
• Build and deploy real-world AI systems.

Skills

Data science

Machine learning

Applied AI

Mentorship

Computer vision

Natural Language Processing (NLP)

Statistical modelling

Large Language Models (LLMs)

Job description

Overview

MCS Group are delighted to be working with an established AI and data science organisation delivering real-world machine learning systems across complex, high-impact environments. The team works on applied AI problems including large language models, computer vision, signal processing, and advanced analytics - building production systems rather than dashboards or proofs of concept. The Belfast office is growing and playing a key role in shaping the company's future technical capability.

Role Overview

This is a senior, hands-on Lead Data Scientist role combining technical delivery, mentorship, and team leadership. You'll take ownership of complex ML programmes, guide technical direction, and support the development of a growing data science team while remaining deeply involved in building and deploying real-world systems.

What You'll Need

• 8+ years' experience in data science, machine learning, or applied AI
• Strong track record delivering ML systems into production
• Experience mentoring or leading other data scientists (formal management not required)
• Practical experience with LLMs / GenAI
• Background in at least one of: computer vision, NLP, or statistical modelling

What's in it for you

• Heavy focus on LLMs, GenAI, and real-world AI systems
• Work across diverse problem spaces including signal data, computer vision, and large-scale analytics
• Strong balance of hands-on technical work and leadership
• Opportunity to help shape and grow a data science function in Belfast
• Meaningful, applied work - not dashboards or experimentation-only projects

To speak in absolute confidence about this opportunity please contact Rachael Walker, IT Recruitment Manager at MCS Group02896935487 or click the apply button below.

If this position is not right for you, we have others that are.

Please visit MCS Group www.mcsgroup.jobs to view a wide selection of our current jobs or give us a call028 9023 5456.

All conversations will be treated in the strictest of confidence.