Data Scientists

About the Opportunity

AUSTRAC, Australia’s financial intelligence agency and anti-money laundering and terrorism financing regulator, is undergoing major transformation to strengthen its role in fighting financial crime. As we evolve and embrace these changes, we are now recruiting multiple roles across the Operational Analytics branch. We are seeking data science and advanced analytics professionals to support operational, regulatory and intelligence outcomes across the agency. We are looking for collaborative, proactive individuals who are innovative and passionate about harnessing the power of data. Our data teams generate vital insights that drive business intelligence and play a crucial role in advancing AUSTRAC's mission.

We are currently seeking data science and advanced analytics professionals with qualifications and capabilities to fill the following roles:

1. Senior Data Scientist (EL1)
2. Data Scientist (APS6)

This recruitment process will not only fill current vacancies but also build a merit pool for future roles over the next 18 months. If you’re ready to bring your expertise and make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.

The key duties of the position include:

Depending on the role and classification level, you may be expected to:

1. Design, develop and deliver data science and advanced analytics solutions that support operational and regulatory decision‑making.
2. Apply statistical, mathematical and machine learning techniques to large, complex datasets to generate insights that inform priorities and action.
3. Work across the end‑to‑end analytics lifecycle, from problem definition and data exploration through to deployment, monitoring and continuous improvement of analytical products.
4. Partner with business stakeholders to translate operational problems into data‑driven solutions and communicate findings clearly to technical and non‑technical audiences.
5. Contribute to strong analytics governance, data quality, and best practice across the Operational Analytics function.
6. Support capability uplift through collaboration, knowledge sharing and, at senior levels, technical leadership and mentoring.

Qualifications: Relevant Tertiary Qualification or Certification in one or the following disciplines is desirable i.e. (Data Science, Statistics or Mathematics, Computer Science, Economics, Engineering or related analytical discipline.)

Skills and Experience: While we value qualifications, we are open to candidates with strong experience, knowledge, and skills in one or more of the following:

1. Delivering data science or advanced analytics solutions using statistical, mathematical or machine learning techniques.
2. Programming in Python or similar languages, with experience working with large and complex datasets.
3. Using big‑data or large‑scale processing technologies (e.g. PySpark or similar) and strong proficiency in SQL for data extraction and manipulation.
4. Communicating complex analytical insights through clear narratives, visualisations and reports to support decision‑making.

For more detailed role duties and information about the capabilities we're looking for, please refer to the linked Candidate Pack. This can also be found through our AUSTRAC - Jobs List.

Eligibility

To be eligible for this role you:

1. Must be an Australian citizen at the time you apply.
2. Will need to undertake AUSTRAC’s pre-engagement checks.
3. Will need to obtain and maintain an ongoing security clearance, with the ability to obtain and maintain Negative Vetting 1 security clearance.

Affirmative Measures

This vacancy is also being advertised under Affirmative Measures, to apply under Affirmative Measures you must be an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person. For more information, please visit the APSC Guide for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants.

To be eligible to apply under Affirmative Measures provisions:

1. Must be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent and/or identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.
2. Provide evidence that you are an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person.

*Please indicate in your application if you are applying under Affirmative Measures, by ticking the relevant box in the application form.

Why AUSTRAC?

1. Flexible, hybrid work environment: We are committed to providing flexibility in working arrangements to recognise the importance of balancing work commitments with family, caring and other personal commitments of employees outside of work. AUSTRAC currently operates under a hybrid work arrangement.
2. Diversity and Inclusion: Our core values of diversity, inclusion, and integrity drive everything we do. We actively encourage applications from Indigenous Australians, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, and those of mature age. We recognise that united behaviours and mindsets will support our agency today and guide us into the future.
3. Employer of Choice: We have a strong reputation as an Employer of Choice, renowned for our exceptional work culture and outstanding employee census results which highlight our dedication to creating a positive and engaging environment.

Closing Date

Applications close at 11:30 pm on Tuesday 17 March 2026

For enquiries, please contact: Will 03 8636 0922