Principal Data Scientist - Operational Research, Simulation & ML

A career without limits

As the nations flag carrier, we take great pride in connecting Britain with the world and the world with Britain. Its something weve been doing for over 100 years, ever since we launched the worlds first international scheduled air service between London and Paris. This originality has been in our blood since day one. Its the spirit we share with the people that fly with us, our partners, and our colleagues.

So, whether you are a reassuring voice on the end of a phone, a smile at the door, under a wing keeping the turbines spinning or landing us gently in far-flung places, a job at British Airways is yours to make. We know great things can happen when youre inspired to think big and bring your ambition to work every day, which is why, at British Airways the sky is never the limit.

Principal Data Scientist - Operational Research, Simulation & ML Optimisation

Join the Operational Decision Support (ODS) team at British Airways, where we build and deploy advanced optimisation, simulation, and machine learning models to improve the efficiency and resilience of airline operations. Were looking for someone who can take models beyond notebooks and turn them into production-ready tools that make a real-world impact.

What youll do:

1. Lead the design and deployment of optimisation, simulation, and machine learning models to solve high-impact operational challenges.
2. Develop and embed predictive and prescriptive analytics into production systems to improve operational performance.
3. Collaborate with stakeholders and software engineers to co-develop and deploy data science products in production.
4. Prioritise and manage a portfolio of data science and optimisation projects within an agile delivery model.
5. Translate complex technical insights into clear recommendations for both technical and non-technical audiences.
6. Build strong cross-functional relationships and use operational research to drive tangible business outcomes.
7. Foster a culture of innovation, staying up to date with the latest in simulation, optimisation, and MLOps techniques.

What youll bring to British Airways:

1. Deep experience in operational research, simulation modelling, or applied machine learning (in production environments).
2. Hands-on experience building scalable solutions - not just proof-of-concepts or academic models.
3. Strong Python skills (and/or other relevant languages), with a track record of delivering robust, maintainable code.
4. Confidence managing end-to-end projects and engaging senior stakeholders with compelling data-driven insights.
5. A collaborative mindset and excellent communication skills to influence decisions and share complex ideas clearly.

Your experience:

1. Background in operational research, data science, applied mathematics, or a related field.
2. Proven success applying advanced optimisation or ML techniques in a business setting.
3. Experience deploying production-grade models and solutions that deliver measurable improvements.
4. Passion for solving real-world problems with data, algorithms, and practical, scalable tools.

What we offer:

We believe that all the people who work with us should feel valued for the part they play. Its one of the reasons our rewards go far beyond a competitive salary. From the day you join us, youll get access to brilliant staff travel benefits including unlimited basic and premium standby tickets on British Airways flights. Youll also receive up to 30 discounted Hotline airfares per year for yourself, friends, and family.

At British Airways youll have the chance to take on new challenges and move forward in a way that feels right for you. We encourage all those who work for us to consider opportunities right across our business to help you develop and progress. We never stand still, and we dont expect our people to either.

Inclusion & Diversity

At British Airways we all have a part to play in creating an inclusive place to work. Diverse representation among our people is really important to us and we recognise that all our colleagues are uniquely different and bring their own originality, creativity and identity to work. Inclusion and diversity is a key driver of innovation and were committed to creating a culture where everyone feels that they can be themselves. Were looking for people from all backgrounds and cultures to join us and be a part of our journey to become a Better BA as we continue to connect Britain with the world and the world with Britain.

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