Data Scientist - Placement Student (Problem Solving & Industrial Insight)

Who are PurpleSector?

Born in the white heat of Formula 1, PurpleSector is an engineering-led, data-driven consultancy that solves complex, high-value challenges.

With a team of over 60 engineers and data scientists, we use race-derived tools, technologies and techniques to uncover critical insights, prototype and validate solutions, and embed lasting performance improvements. Our mission is to decode complexity, unlock efficiency, and deliver measurable results at race pace - turning challenges into performance gains in weeks, not months.

Role Overview

• We are looking for an analytical, detail-focused problem solver to help PurpleSector turn complex operational information into clear, useful insight. You will work with engineers, data scientists and client teams to investigate questions, identify patterns, check evidence and communicate what matters.
• Practical problem solving and sound judgement over deep theoretical data science
• Careful review of information, with a strong eye for detail and consistency
• Clear, concise outputs that help teams make decisions and improve performance
• A Formula 1 mindset: curiosity, precision, pace and continuous improvement
• This role suits someone who enjoys getting to the root of a problem, is not afraid to ask good questions, and takes pride in producing accurate, useful work.

Location: Hybrid (ability to work at our Head Office in Thursley, Surrey and travel to client sites when required).

Key Responsibilities:

• Break down ambiguous questions into clear steps, evidence and outputs
• Review and organise information from multiple sources, checking completeness, consistency and context
• Compare information, identify patterns or anomalies, and follow up on anything that does not make sense
• Apply logical, structured approaches to classify, prioritise and summarise findings
• Prepare clear, concise reports, tables, charts and presentations for technical and non-technical audiences
• Work with engineers and client teams to understand processes, test assumptions and validate conclusions
• Use spreadsheets, Python or other practical tools to support analysis and repeatable workflows, with training provided where needed
• Document methods, decisions and results so that work can be reviewed, reused and improved
• Contribute to rapid prototypes and practical tools that make analysis faster, clearer or more reliable
• Communicate issues early, manage priorities and take ownership from question through to answer

General Requirements:

• Studying towards a STEM degree such as engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, natural sciences or a related subject
• A strong problem-solving mindset and genuine curiosity about how things work
• Excellent attention to detail and a disciplined approach to checking work
• Comfortable working with structured and unstructured information, and learning unfamiliar tools quickly
• Able to explain reasoning clearly in writing and conversation
• Organised, reliable and able to manage several tasks with changing priorities
• Confident asking questions, challenging assumptions constructively and working collaboratively
• Practical experience with Excel, Python or similar tools is useful but not essential; advanced data science experience is not required
• Flexible to travel to client sites in the UK and Europe; an interest in motorsport is desirable

Employee Benefits (subject to contract eligibility):

• 25 days' holiday (pro-rated for part time employees)
• Pension (4% employee, 5% employer)
• Life insurance x 4 of salary
• Healthcare (after 6 month probation)
• Income Protection (after 6 month probation)
• Employee Assistance Scheme
• Up to 10% discretionary annual bonus (based on individual/company performance)

1e127ede32d8f816eacfb0aed73cee11