Data Scientist - Outside IR35 - Hybrid/Scotland

Project Overview

A global FMCG company in Scotland is seeking a hands-on Data Scientist for a 6-month contract, starting mid-November 2026.

This hybrid role requires approximately 60% onsite presence with some flexibility.

The project involves applying real machine learning to solve production and product-related business problems, not just reporting or dashboard creation.

Location: Scotland

Duration: initial 6 months, high probability to extend

Rate: Flexible (£450-£500) depending on years of experience

IR35: Outside, pending final determination

Key Responsibilities

• Design and run experiments to understand product development and changes over time.
• Model the impact of raw materials and production processes on final product characteristics.
• Use data to support stock and inventory decisions.
• Manage machine learning projects end-to-end, including problem framing, data exploration, model building, testing, and deployment.
• Communicate approaches and results clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Required Skills and Experience

• 3 to 5 years of hands-on data science experience.
• Strong machine learning fundamentals, including problem framing, experimental design, and algorithm selection and tuning.
• Proven track record of delivering machine learning models end-to-end rather than just analysis or visualisation.
• Hands-on experience with Databricks.
• Exposure to Microsoft Fabric.

Deliverables

• End-to-end machine learning models addressing production and product questions.
• Experimental designs and analyses related to product development.
• Data-driven insights supporting inventory and stock management decisions.
• Clear documentation and communication of technical work to stakeholders.