Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)
Location: Gatwick, United Kingdom
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-time
Salary: £55,000 – £65,000 (dependent on experience)
Security Level: CTC
Visa Sponsorship: Not available
Closing Date: 9 January 2026
Overview
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is the UK’s aviation and aerospace regulator and a recognised world leader in safety and innovation. We are seeking a Data Scientist to join the Test & Evaluation (T&E) function within the Future Safety & Innovation (FS&I) department.
This role supports the safe introduction of emerging aviation technologies, including Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), hydrogen-powered aviation, and new operational concepts. You will transform complex operational and surveillance data into evidence-based insights to support regulatory decision-making, policy development, and future aviation standards.
Responsibilities
- Collect, clean, structure, and maintain datasets from UAS operators and trials
- Process telemetry and surveillance data, including ADS-B, radar, and flight logs
- Develop scalable data ingestion and analytical workflows
- Translate raw data into structured evidence for risk modelling and performance assessment
- Support the development of test specifications, standards, metrics, and pass/fail criteria
- Ensure data quality, consistency, and traceability
- Build dashboards, automated reporting tools, and analytical reports
- Present insights clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Collaborate with internal CAA teams and external operators
Essential Skills and Experience
- Experience analysing technical or operational datasets
- Strong proficiency in Python, SQL, Power BI, Alteryx, or similar tools
- Ability to interpret, analyse, and visualise large datasets
- Strong statistical analysis capability
- Experience with dashboards and automated reporting
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work effectively in fast-paced and changing environments
- Degree in Data Science, Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent experience
Desirable Experience
- Aviation, aerospace, or UAS-related data experience
- Knowledge of surveillance systems such as ADS-B or radar
- Experience working in regulated environments
- Collaboration with multidisciplinary technical teams
Additional Information
This role requires National Security Vetting (CTC). Applicants must normally have at least three years’ UK residency to allow meaningful vetting checks. Interviews are expected to take place in person during the week commencing 19 or 26 January 2026.
The CAA offers hybrid and flexible working, a strong pension scheme, generous annual leave, and a range of additional benefits.
How to Apply
Apply via the official CAA careers website. Early applications are encouraged, as the vacancy may close before the advertised deadline.
