Data Scientist – Artificial Intelligence
The Organisation
The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) protects Australia and Australians from threats
to their security. In a complex, challenging and changing security environment, our success is built on
the imagination and intelligence of our team. ASIO’s people are ordinary Australians but they do
extraordinary things – they are our most important asset. To be successful in our mission, we need
talented people who are highly capable, dedicated, adaptable and resilient.
We seek to reflect the diversity of the community we protect. ASIO is committed to fostering a diverse
and inclusive environment, where all staff are valued and respected. We welcome applications from all
eligible candidates, irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious affiliation, age or
disability. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are encouraged to apply. We are secretive about
what we do, not what we value.
The opportunity
ASIO is seeking to fill Data Scientist (Artificial Intelligence) positions in Canberra (preferred), Sydney, Melbourne or Adelaide locations.
A merit pool may be created to fill future vacancies which have the same or similar requirements to this
position. This merit pool will be valid for up to 18 months.
Role responsibilities
As a Data Scientist (Artificial Intelligence) you will:
- Join a team of highly experienced data scientists and engineers responsible for evaluating, developing, integrating and deploying leading edge artificial intelligence services and products in support of ASIO’s mission.
- Work in a computing rich environment, including dedicated GPU infrastructure, to drive innovation.
- Effectively communicate technical concepts to diverse audiences, bridging the gap between complex AI ideas and their practical applications in support of ASIO’s objectives.
What you will bring
The Role Description above provides a general overview of the role. Depending on the level of position you wish to apply for, the required skills will vary.
For AE5 roles we invite applications from people with the following attributes:
- Technology skills.
- Some relevant experience related to the required skills listed below.
- An aptitude and desire to learn.
AE6 applicants should show skills and experience across many of the following while AEE1 candidates should be able to demonstrate well-developed skills and experience that meet all of the following required criteria:
Required Skills
- A conceptual understanding and experience with machine learning models.
- The ability to critically evaluate model outputs and clearly articulate model risks and opportunities to ASIO.
- Software development or programming experience (preferably Python).
- A willingness to keep up to date with changes and innovations in artificial intelligence.
- Good written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex concepts to a variety of senior stakeholders with a range of technical experience.
- The ability to collaborate with data scientists and non-technical people to develop technology solutions.
- The capacity to learn and grow individually while mentoring junior team members effectively.
Other Desirable Skills and Experience
- Familiarity with modern Large Language Models and associated frameworks.
- Experience in the MLOps lifecycle – building datasets, training & evaluating models, deployment and feedback.
- Tertiary qualifications in Artificial Intelligence/Data Science, Computer Science, Mathematics/Statistics or relevant STEM qualifications or equivalent industry experience.
- Experience with containerisation technologies, particularly Docker and orchestrators such as Kubernetes
What we offer you
ASIO provides a number of benefits to its staff including:
- A competitive salary, including a 7.5 per cent allowance for maintaining a TOP SECRET-Privileged
Access security clearance. - Employer superannuation contributions of 15.4 per cent.
- A variety of leave options, in addition to the standard 4 weeks annual leave to ensure your work-life balance.
- Flexible working arrangements to assist you to maintain your work-life balance (Please note: due
to our unique working environment, work from home options are generally not available). - Study assistance, including financial support and study leave for tertiary education.
- Access to 7 staff-led diversity and inclusion networks.
- Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Eligibility
To be eligible for the role, you must be:
- An Australian citizen.
- Assessed as suitable to hold and maintain a TOP SECRET-Privileged Access security clearance.
ASIO is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, where all staff are valued and
respected. We welcome and value applications from all eligible candidates, irrespective of gender, sexual
orientation, ethnicity, religious affiliation, age or disability. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are
encouraged to apply.
Reasonable adjustments
Please advise us if you require any additional assistance in order to fully participate in the recruitment
process or the workplace.
Location
These positions are available from Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, and Perth.
How to apply
Click on ‘Apply online’ to commence your application. Your application must be complete and include
the following:
- A written pitch of up to two pages using examples to demonstrate how your skills, experience
and aptitude address the role description and required skills. Refer to the capability framework
for guidance on at-level expectations. - An up-to-date CV, no more than 2 pages in length.
- Details of 2 referees, which should include a current or previous manager.
All employment decisions and selection processes at ASIO are based on merit principles and candidates
must be prepared to undergo various selection stages.
ASIO holds all employment applications in the strictest of confidence. It is essential that you do the
same. Please do not discuss your application with others as doing so may adversely affect your potential
employment.
Closing date and time
Monday 14 October 2024, 5.00pm AEDT
No extensions will be granted and late applications will not be accepted.
Employment conditions
Employment is under the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation Act 1979. Conditions of service are
similar to those applying in the Australian Public Service. We recognise entitlements accrued under the
Public Service Act 1999 and provide for continuation of superannuation under the Commonwealth
schemes. Salary packaging arrangements are also available.
Enquiries
If you require further information after reading the selection documentation, please contact ASIO
Recruitment at careers@asio.gov.au or phone 02 6257 4916.
More information
For more information about ASIO, please visit: www.asio.gov.au