Job Overview & Organization Mission

Design national population census methodologies, complex sample survey weightings, and small-area demographic projections at the ABS in Canberra.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is seeking an accomplished Lead Statistical Methodologist (APS Executive Level 1) to join our Methodology and Data Architecture division in Belconnen, Canberra. You will formulate cutting-edge statistical methodologies for national social and economic surveys (Census, Labour Force Survey), design probabilistic sampling frames, model population aging trends, and pioneer administrative data integration.

As a key member of the team at Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) in Canberra, ACT, you will play a central role in driving excellence, upholding top-tier Australian industry standards, and contributing directly to the strategic milestones of one of the nation’s premier employers.

Key Duties & Core Responsibilities

In this critical role, your operational duties and key performance responsibilities will encompass:

• Lead mathematical: Lead mathematical methodology design for major national household and economic surveys.
• Develop sample: Develop sample design, calibration weighting, imputation algorithms, and variance estimation techniques.
• Produce official: Produce official national and regional population projections using cohort-component demographic models.
• Pioneer machine: Pioneer machine learning and small area estimation (SAE) techniques to combine administrative tax data with survey responses.
• Author peer-reviewed: Author peer-reviewed methodological papers and represent the ABS at international statistical forums (UN, OECD).

Required Qualifications, Licenses & Experience

To be successful in this position at Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), candidates are expected to satisfy the following essential selection criteria:

• Mandatory Qualification: Master’s or PhD in Statistics, Demography, Econometrics, Mathematics or Data Science.
• Relevant Experience: Minimum 6+ Years of verified industry experience in Australia or recognized overseas equivalence.
• 6+ years of practical experience in survey methodology, demographic analysis, or applied mathematical statistics.
• Advanced programming proficiency in R, Python, or SAS for large-scale data processing.
• Australian Citizenship (mandatory for Australian Public Service employment).
• Master’s or PhD in Statistics, Mathematics, Demography, or Econometrics.

Core Competencies & Key Technical Proficiencies

The successful applicant will possess demonstrated capabilities across the following domain skill sets:

Salary, Compensation & Employee Benefits

At Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), we understand that our people drive our achievements. An outstanding remuneration and wellbeing package is provided in line with Australian benchmarks:

• Competitive Remuneration: AU$135,000 – AU$160,000 per year + standard Australian Superannuation (11.5%).
• Remuneration $135,000 – $160,000 + 15.4% APS superannuation.
• Belconnen Canberra national office with flexible hybrid working arrangements (work from home options).
• Generous public service leave entitlements, study assistance, and intellectual contribution to national policy.
• Leave Entitlements: 4 weeks annual leave (with 17.5% annual leave loading where applicable) plus 10 days paid personal/carer’s leave.
• Flexible Work: Progressive work-life balance options with supportive corporate culture and leadership development pathways.

About the Employer: Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)

The Australian Bureau of Statistics is Australia’s national statistical agency, providing trusted official statistics for informed decision making.

Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is deeply committed to building diverse, equitable, and culturally inclusive work environments. We proudly celebrate diversity and welcome applications from all qualified individuals including First Nations Australians, people with disabilities, and candidates from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Application Process & Next Steps

Applications for this position are currently open and being reviewed on a rolling basis. Suitable candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible before the published closing date.

Please prepare an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a tailored Cover Letter highlighting your relevant experience against the key selection criteria outlined above.

To proceed with your application, click the Apply on Employer Site button to access the official Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) careers gateway.