Data Scientist - Onsite (Riyadh) - Octopus - Immediate hire

robusta; Riyad Al Khabra; On-site; SAR 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic technology firm is seeking a Data Scientist in Saudi Arabia. You'll develop and deploy advanced ML models while ensuring compliance with Saudi regulations. The ideal candidate should have at least 5 years of experience in machine learning and hold a Bachelor's degree in a related field. Strong skills in Python and familiarity with MLOps tools are crucial for this role.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in Machine Learning or Data Science required.
• Relevant certifications in machine learning are a plus.
• Knowledge of Saudi data regulations is crucial.

Responsibilities

• Identify and prioritize AI / ML use cases for business value.
• Develop and deploy machine learning models for various applications.
• Ensure compliance with local regulations for data usage.

Skills

Expertise in Python

Proficiency in SQL

Experience with MLOps tools

Strong analytical communication skills

Deep learning expertise

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Master’s or PhD in Machine Learning

Tools

TensorFlow

scikit-learn

PyTorch

Job description

About Octopus by RTG

Octopus by RTG is the tech hiring and outsourcing arm of Robusta Technology Group, dedicated to connecting exceptional tech talent with top-tier organizations across the MENA, GCC, Europe, the US, and Canada. We specialize in building strong, long-term partnerships between skilled professionals and innovative companies. Our mission is to empower growth, innovation, and excellence by matching the right talent with the right opportunities.

Currently, we are hiring a Data Scientist for one of our partner organizations in KSA on a 1-year contract, offering the opportunity to contribute to exciting projects within a dynamic and forward-thinking environment.

Main Responsibilities

• Identify and prioritize AI / ML use cases that deliver measurable business value and ROI.
• Develop, validate, and deploy machine learning models for fraud detection, claim risk prediction, customer segmentation, and pricing optimization.
• Build and maintain end-to-end data pipelines including data preparation, feature engineering, and model deployment.
• Implement advanced analytics techniques, including deep learning, NLP, and computer vision where applicable.
• Collaborate with ML Engineers to productionize models using MLOps best practices and CI / CD pipelines.
• Ensure compliance with Saudi regulations (PDPL, NDMO) for data usage, model development, and AI governance.
• Implement model monitoring, drift detection, and automated retraining pipelines to maintain model performance.
• Partner with business stakeholders to translate complex business problems into actionable data-driven solutions.
• Conduct A / B testing and experimentation to measure model effectiveness and optimize outcomes.
• Develop and deploy explainable AI (XAI) models ensuring transparency and regulatory compliance.
• Prepare technical documentation, analytical reports, and executive dashboards on model outcomes and insights.
• Lead knowledge transfer sessions and mentor junior data scientists and analysts to build internal capabilities.
• Stay current with latest AI / ML research and evaluate new technologies and techniques for business applications.
• Collaborate with the Data Engineering team to ensure high-quality, reliable data for ML models.
• Support the development of enterprise ML platforms and reusable AI / ML components.

Requirements

Main Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Data Science, or a related quantitative field (required).
• Master’s or PhD in Machine Learning, Data Science, Statistics, or Artificial Intelligence (preferred).
• Relevant certifications such as Google Cloud ML Engineer, AWS Certified Machine Learning, TensorFlow Developer, or Azure AI Engineer are a plus.

Experience & Skills

• 5+ years of proven experience in Machine Learning, Data Science, and Applied Statistics.
• Strong expertise in Python and ML frameworks (scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, XGBoost).
• Proficiency in SQL and experience working with big data platforms (e.g., BigQuery, Spark, Databricks).
• Hands‑on experience with MLOps tools such as Kubeflow, MLflow, Vertex AI, or SageMaker.
• Demonstrated ability to work with structured and unstructured data (JSON, text, images).
• Deep understanding of statistical methods, experimental design, and hypothesis testing.
• Proven track record in model deployment, monitoring, and lifecycle management.
• Familiarity with cloud‑native ML platforms (Vertex AI, Azure ML, SageMaker).
• Knowledge of AI governance frameworks, explainable AI (XAI), and model interpretability.
• Experience with deep learning, computer vision, and natural language processing (NLP).
• Knowledge of generative AI, LLMs, and real‑time or edge ML deployment.
• Strong understanding of Saudi data regulations (PDPL, NDMO, SAMA).
• Experience in the insurance or financial services domain (fraud detection, pricing models, claims prediction).
• Excellent communication skills to explain complex analytical findings to non‑technical audiences.
• Strong leadership and mentoring abilities, with experience guiding data science teams.