Azure Data Scientist

Blue Pearl PTY; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading analytics firm in Johannesburg is looking for an experienced Azure Data Scientist to develop machine learning models and deliver data-driven insights using Azure tooling. Responsibilities include feature engineering, predictive analytics, and collaborating with data engineers. Ideal candidates should possess strong statistical skills and experience in MLOps, with a degree in Data Science or a related field. The position offers a hybrid working model, preferably for South African citizens or permanent residents.

Qualifications

• Strong analytical capability and hands-on experience with Azure ML ecosystems.
• Experience in delivering production-ready ML models in cloud environments.
• 3-5+ years in machine learning, AI, data science, or advanced analytics.

Responsibilities

• Develop machine learning models on Azure.
• Collaborate with data engineers for high-quality data.
• Present findings to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Work with business stakeholders to translate problems into ML solutions.
• Develop automated ML workflows using Azure ML Pipelines and MLOps practices.
• Monitor model performance, drift, and quality; drive continuous improvement.
• Present insights and recommendations to technical and non-technical audiences.

Skills

Python

Statistical modelling

Azure Machine Learning

MLOps

Data exploration

Feature engineering

Education

Degree in Data Science or related field

Tools

Azure ML

Databricks

Spark ML

Git

Azure DevOps

Spark ML

Job description

Johannesburg, South Africa | Posted on 02/13/2026

The Azure Data Scientist will be responsible for developing machine learning models, applying advanced analytics techniques, and delivering data-driven insights using Azure-based tooling. This role requires strong analytical capability, statistical modelling expertise, and hands‑on experience with Azure ML ecosystems.

Key Responsibilities

• Build, train, validate, and deploy machine learning models on Azure (Azure ML, Databricks).
• Perform data exploration, feature engineering, statistical modelling, and predictive analytics.
• Collaborate with data engineers to ensure availability of high-quality training data.
• Work with business stakeholders to translate business problems into ML solutions.
• Develop automated ML workflows using Azure ML Pipelines, MLOps practices, and versioning strategies.
• Monitor model performance, drift, and quality; implement continuous improvement processes.
• Present insights, findings, and recommendations to technical and non-technical audiences.

Required Technical Skills

• Proficiency in Python (pandas, scikit-learn, NumPy, PyTorch/TensorFlow optional).
• Experience with Azure Machine Learning, Databricks, Synapse, and associated ML tooling.
• Strong statistical and mathematical modelling skills.
• Experience with MLOps, Azure DevOps, Git version control, and CI/CD for ML.
• Familiarity with distributed ML and big data frameworks (Spark ML).
• Ability to work with structured and unstructured datasets.

Qualifications & Certifications (Preferred)

• Other relevant Azure or ML certifications (Databricks ML, TensorFlow Developer, etc.).
• Degree in Data Science, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Statistics, or equivalent.

Experience

• 3–5+ years in machine learning, AI, data science, or advanced analytics.
• Proven experience delivering production-ready ML models in cloud environments.

Location & Working Model

• Location: Johannesburg (Hybrid working model)
• Ways of Working: Standard SAST business hours
• Candidate: Preferably a South African Citizen or Permanent Resident