Data Scientist ( AI Specialist )

FirstRand Bank Limited; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the banking sector is seeking a skilled AI Practitioner / Data Scientist specializing in Generative AI. This role involves designing and deploying AI models, requiring a solid foundation in data engineering and collaboration with cross-functional teams to leverage data for optimal AI performance. Candidates should possess significant experience in Generative AI frameworks, cloud platforms, and have a strong academic background in related fields.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience with a focus on Generative AI.
• Hands-on experience with deep learning and generative AI frameworks.
• Experience with cloud platforms and containerization technologies.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize operational and analytical solutions with Generative AI.
• Collaborate with teams for data quality and availability.
• Deploy AI models ensuring performance and scalability.

Skills

Deep learning frameworks

Generative AI frameworks

Machine learning algorithms

Python

SQL

Data manipulation libraries

MLOps practices

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Machine Learning, or a related field

Master's or Ph.D. (advantageous)

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

AWS

GCP

Azure

Docker

Kubernetes

Hadoop

Spark

Vector databases

Job description

We are seeking a skilled AI Practitioner / Data Scientist with a deep specialization in Generative AI and a robust background in data. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in designing, developing, and deploying AI models with a focus on generative techniques. This role demands a strong understanding of data engineering principles, making the candidate well-equipped to handle the data pipeline challenges inherent in AI and data projects.

• Design, implement, and optimize operational and analytical solutions utilizing Generative AI models.
• Develop and fine-tune RAG (Retrieval Augmented Generation) frameworks utilizing LLM frameworks such as LangChain, Llama-Index or other generative frameworks.
• Experiment with new architectures and techniques to push the boundaries of generative AI.
• Collaborate with data engineering / analyst teams to ensure the availability and quality of data needed for model training and validation.
• Design and maintain scalable data pipelines to handle large volumes of structured and unstructured data.
• Perform ETL tasks with to create optimal data-warehousing structures (Dimensional modelling) for optimal storage, ease of use and maintainability.
• Integrate data from various sources and ensure its proper storage, transformation, and accessibility.

Deployment and Scaling :

• Deploy AI and generative AI models in production environments, ensuring they meet performance, scalability, and reliability requirements.
• Work with DevOps teams to automate the deployment and monitoring of AI models.
• Optimize model inference for performance and cost efficiency in cloud and on-premises environments.

Collaboration and Communication :

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including data scientists, engineers, product managers, and business stakeholders, to align AI solutions with business objectives.
• Communicate complex AI concepts and findings to non-technical stakeholders.

Continuous Learning and Innovation :

• Stay up to date with the latest advancements in Generative AI and data engineering.
• Participate in conferences, workshops, and other professional development opportunities.
• Contribute to research publications and patent filings in the field of Generative AI.

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in AI, with a focus on Generative AI (1-2 years).
• Hands-on experience with deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) and Generative AI frameworks.
• Experience with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, GCP, Azure) and containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).

Technical Skills :

• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, SQL, and familiarity with data manipulation libraries (e.g., Pandas, NumPy).
• Strong knowledge of machine learning algorithms, neural networks, and generative models.
• Experience with data storage solutions (e.g., Hadoop, Spark, Vector databases).
• Knowledge of MLOps practices, including model versioning, monitoring, and retraining

Soft Skills :

• A proactive attitude with a passion for learning and innovation.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

Preferred Qualifications and Certification

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Machine Learning, or a related field.
• Master's or Ph.D. is advantageous
• Any of the following certifications are highly advised : AWS Certified AI PractitionerAWS Certified Machine LearningGCP Professional Machine Learning EngineerGCP Associate Cloud EngineerMicrosoft Azure AI engineerMicrosoft Azure Data Science.

Post

LI-AR4

Take note that applications will not be accepted on the below date and onwards, kindly submit applications ahead of the closing date indicated below.

10 / 07 / 25

All appointments will be made in line with FirstRand Group’s Employment Equity plan. The Bank supports the recruitment and advancement of individuals with disabilities. In order for us to fulfill this purpose, candidates can disclose their disability information on a voluntary basis. The Bank will keep this information confidential unless we are required by law to disclose this information to other parties.

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