Automotive Data Scientist (Machine Learning Focus)

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary

Career growth

Health benefits

Job summary

Placements24 in Soweto is seeking an Automotive Data Scientist with a strong ML focus to drive analysis across sensor, telematics, and manufacturing data. You will develop models for predictive maintenance, anomaly detection, and performance optimization while collaborating with engineers and product teams.

The role combines on-site collaboration with remote flexibility in a hybrid work environment and emphasizes data governance, model deployment, and stakeholder communication.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Data Scientist or Machine Learning Engineer.
• Proficiency in Python or R.
• Strong experience with ML libraries and frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn).
• Experience with large datasets and databases (SQL, NoSQL).
• Familiarity with data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI, Matplotlib).
• Knowledge of cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Collect, clean, and transform large volumes of automotive data for analysis.
• Develop, train, and evaluate ML models for predictive maintenance, anomaly detection, and performance optimization.
• Apply statistical methods to identify trends and insights within automotive data.
• Design and implement experiments to test hypotheses and validate model performance.
• Visualize data and model results for stakeholders.
• Collaborate with automotive engineers and product teams to understand data needs.

Skills

Python

R

Machine learning

SQL

Education

Master's or PhD in Data Science/Statistics/CS/Math

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Scikit-learn

Tableau

Power BI

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a talented and innovative Automotive Data Scientist with a strong focus on Machine Learning to join their expanding analytics team in Soweto, Gauteng . This role is at the intersection of automotive engineering and data science, aiming to leverage vast amounts of vehicle data to improve product development, enhance performance, predict failures, and optimize user experiences. You will be involved in the entire data science lifecycle, from data collection and preprocessing to model development, deployment, and interpretation. This hybrid position offers a dynamic work environment that blends on-site collaboration with remote flexibility. The ideal candidate has a solid foundation in statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms, and experience working with large datasets, preferably within the automotive sector. Your insights will directly influence product strategy and engineering decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Collect, clean, and transform large volumes of automotive data (e.g., sensor data, telematics, manufacturing data) for analysis.
• Develop, train, and evaluate machine learning models for various automotive applications, such as predictive maintenance, anomaly detection, driver behavior analysis, and performance optimization.
• Apply statistical methods and techniques to identify trends, patterns, and insights within automotive data.
• Design and implement experiments to test hypotheses and validate model performance.
• Visualize data and model results to communicate findings effectively to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Collaborate with automotive engineers and product teams to understand their data needs and develop data-driven solutions.
• Deploy machine learning models into production environments, working closely with software and MLOps engineers.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and their applications in the automotive industry.
• Contribute to the development of data governance and best practices within the team.
• Mentor junior data analysts and contribute to the overall analytical capabilities of the organization.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Data Scientist or Machine Learning Engineer.
• Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in data science, such as Python or R.
• Strong experience with machine learning libraries and frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn).
• Solid understanding of statistical modeling, data mining techniques, and various machine learning algorithms (regression, classification, clustering, deep learning).
• Experience working with large datasets and databases (SQL, NoSQL).
• Familiarity with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, Matplotlib).
• Knowledge of cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, effective in a hybrid team setting.
• Experience in the automotive industry or with automotive data is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and excellent opportunities for professional growth and skill development. This hybrid role provides the flexibility to balance remote and on-site work. You will have the opportunity to work on impactful projects, driving innovation through data at a leading company in Soweto .