Athena Analytics provide software the “Athena Tracker” to educational institutions. This software uses machine learning to identify a student’s potential. The student’s performance throughout school is then tracked against this for the purpose of highlighting when they dip below their own unique potential and may require some additional support. We recognise that each student’s pathway through school is unique. Success is different for each student. Traditionally academic tracking is focused on both the high achievers and the students that require most support. Our software aims to ensure that every student gets this type of attention and no student gets missed in a busy school system. Over 400 schools are using the Athena Analytics products.

Any role at Athena Analytics will suit someone who is passionate about improving the education experience in Ireland for all involved, someone who has a keen interest in data science and it’s applications.

We are looking for a hands-on Data Scientist to take ownership of this core predictive model and the Python-based backend it runs on. This role requires not just strong technical skills, but also the ability to work independently, deliver production-ready code, and collaborate proactively with a small team. The role involves replacing and improving existing legacy code, so experience with working in real-world, imperfect codebases is essential.

This can be a fully remote role, but the person must be available during Irish working hours and willing to collaborate regularly online. This role is part-time, approximately 2-3 days per week but may grow to a full-time role.

Responsibilities:

• Fully rewrite and maintain the core Python model behind the Athena Tracker, currently used by 400+ schools.

• Build and maintain data pipelines that process, clean, and load large datasets from school MIS systems.

• Work with other team members (developers, designer, support) to ensure the data science components are robust, scalable, and aligned with product needs.

• Maintain a clear focus on delivery and avoid excessive exploratory work unless required for direct product improvements.

• Help publish technical documentation or articles related to Athena’s work in education analytics.

• Be available for regular check-ins, share progress clearly, and ask questions early when roadblocks arise.

Minimum Requirements:

• Strong Python skills, especially with pandas, numPy, and scikit-learn or LightGBM.

• Experience writing and maintaining production-level code — not just notebooks or prototypes.

• Strong SQL and data manipulation skills.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and deliver well-tested, documented code.

• Good communication skills and evidence of working well in a small team or startup setting.

• Knowledge of the Irish secondary school system or interest in improving education systems.

Desirable (but not required):

• Familiarity with Docker and model deployment practices.

• Prior involvement in publishing articles or technical documentation.

Deliverables:

• Re-written code base