Data Scientist - Deep Learning Specialist

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary with bonuses

Comprehensive medical aid

Generous annual leave and sick leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Data Scientist with a Deep Learning focus to join a hybrid team in Bloemfontein, Free State. You will lead end-to-end AI projects, from data exploration to model deployment, applying TensorFlow/PyTorch and cutting-edge architectures.

Ideal candidates hold a Master’s/PhD and 3+ years in DL, with strong Python skills and cloud experience. The role emphasizes collaboration, experimentation, and impactful results in a hybrid work setting.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in CS/Statistics/Math or related quantitative field.
• 3+ years as a Data Scientist with deep learning focus.
• Proficiency in Python and DL libraries (TensorFlow/Keras/PyTorch).
• Strong knowledge of CNNs, RNNs, Transformers and their apps.
• Experience with data visualization and cloud platforms.
• Eligible to work in South Africa, commuting distance to Bloemfontein.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement deep learning models for various applications.
• Perform data exploration, cleaning, and feature engineering at scale.
• Train, evaluate, and fine-tune models using DL frameworks.
• Collaborate with engineers to productionize ML models.
• Design experiments to validate model performance and hypotheses.
• Communicate insights via reports and visualizations.

Skills

Deep learning

Python programming

Data analysis

Neural networks

Model evaluation

Education

Master's or PhD in CS/Statistics/Math or related field

Tools

TensorFlow

Keras

PyTorch

NumPy

Pandas

Scikit-learn

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking organization in the AI & Emerging Technologies sector, is seeking a talented Data Scientist with a specialization in Deep Learning to join their team in Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA . This role is integral to advancing our client's capabilities in creating intelligent systems and deriving insights from complex data. You will be involved in the entire data science lifecycle, from data exploration and feature engineering to model development, training, and deployment. We are looking for a curious and innovative individual who is passionate about applying cutting-edge deep learning techniques to solve real-world problems. This hybrid role offers a blend of focused work and collaborative engagement, contributing to groundbreaking projects within a supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement deep learning models for various applications, including but not limited to image recognition, natural language processing, and time series analysis. Perform data exploration, cleaning, and feature engineering on large and complex datasets. Train, evaluate, and fine-tune deep learning models using relevant frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch). Collaborate with engineers and domain experts to integrate ML models into production systems. Design and conduct experiments to test hypotheses and validate model performance. Stay updated on the latest research and advancements in deep learning and artificial intelligence. Communicate findings and insights effectively through reports, presentations, and visualizations. Contribute to the development of data science best practices and standards. Identify new opportunities to apply deep learning techniques to business challenges. Work within a hybrid model, balancing remote and in-office collaboration in Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA .

Requirements

Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field with a focus on Machine Learning or Deep Learning. Proven experience (3+ years) as a Data Scientist with a strong emphasis on deep learning model development. Proficiency in Python and extensive experience with deep learning libraries (TensorFlow, Keras, PyTorch) and data science tools (NumPy, Pandas, Scikit-learn). Solid understanding of various neural network architectures (CNNs, RNNs, Transformers) and their applications. Experience with data visualization tools and techniques. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Good communication and teamwork abilities. Familiarity with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP) and big data technologies is a plus. Must be legally eligible to work in South Africa and reside within commuting distance of Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package designed to attract top talent, including a base salary and performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid, including dental and optical coverage, is provided.
• Employees benefit from generous annual leave and paid sick leave.
• Opportunities for professional development, such as attending workshops, online courses, and relevant conferences, are actively encouraged and funded.
• Access to powerful computing resources and cutting-edge software is a standard offering.
• This role provides a stimulating work environment and the chance to contribute to impactful AI projects.
• A retirement fund with company contributions is part of the benefits package.
• The hybrid work arrangement offers valuable flexibility.