Data Scientist-I

FirstRand Limited; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Networking opportunities

Challenging work

Innovation opportunities

Job summary

FirstRand Limited is seeking a Data Scientist I in Johannesburg to support end-to-end model development for financial crime analytics. You will work with senior data scientists and stakeholders to translate insights into actionable recommendations.

The role involves governance, documentation, and collaboration with risk and technology teams while applying SAS, SQL and Python. A foundational degree and 1–2 years experience are ideal.

Qualifications

• Honours Degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Actuarial Science, Engineering, Physics or related field.
• 1–2 years hands-on data analysis, modeling or analytics in financial services preferred.
• Working knowledge of SAS, SQL and Python.

Responsibilities

• Support end-to-end model development, implementation and governance for financial crime analytics (AML/CFT, transaction monitoring, sanctions screening).
• Translate technical findings into clear, actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders.
• Contribute to documentation for models and processes.
• Collaborate with business, risk and technology teams across the FirstRand group under supervision.
• Assist with continuous skill development through hands-on project support.

Skills

Data analysis

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Education

Honours degree in Mathematics/Statistics/CS/Actuarial/Engineering/Physics

Tools

SAS

SQL

Python

Job description

## Data Scientist-IApply: Johannesburg: Full time: Posted Today: End Date: September 26, 2026 (3 days left to apply): R53749# **Job Description**To build, optimise and implement innovative quantitative analytical methodologies, procedures, and advanced mathematical models that provide analytical support and interpret insights, to address business opportunities and problems and implement business strategy, under guidance against predicted results and deliver according to set processes and procedures.**Hello Future Data Scientist I**Welcome to FNB, the home of the #changeables. We design for the shapeshifters and deliver products and services that make us incredibly proud of people that make it happen.As part of our talent team, you will be surrounded by unique talents, diverse minds, and an adaptable environment that lives up to the promise of staying curious. Now’s the time to imagine your potential in a team where experts come together and ignite effective change.**Are you someone who can:*** Support senior data scientists and managers in end-to-end model development, implementation, and governance for financial crime risk analytics (AML/CFT, transaction monitoring, sanctions screening).* Assist with analytical problem-solving and explore data to identify trends, patterns, and potential risks.* Help translate technical analysis into clear, actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders.* Contribute to clear and well-structured technical documentation for models and processes.* Work collaboratively with business, risk, and technology teams across the FirstRand group under guidance from senior team members.* Continuously develop technical and business skills through hands-on project support and mentorship.* Apply SAS, SQL, and Python for data preparation, basic modeling, analysis, and automation tasks.* Support model governance activities, including documentation, monitoring, and review processes.* Demonstrate eagerness to learn, initiative, and a problem-solving mindset in a regulated environment.**You will be an ideal candidate if you:*** Hold an Honours Degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Actuarial Science, Engineering, Physics, or a related field.* Have 1–2 years of hands-on experience in data analysis, modeling, or analytics-related roles, preferably within financial services.* Possess working knowledge of SAS, SQL, and Python.* Are comfortable working under guidance and collaborating within cross-functional teams.* Exposure to financial crime, fraud detection, or AML/CFT concepts is an advantage. **You will have access to:*** Opportunities to network and collaborate.* Challenging Work.* Opportunities to innovate. **We can be a match if you are:*** Curious & courageous - you're driven by always wanting to know more and learn more and you're brave enough to.* Obsessed with mastery - you know what it takes to become good at what you do and are constantly pushing yourself to do it.* Adaptable, curious and willing to learn.* Passionate in providing insights.* Thrive in a collaborative environment. **Are you interested to take the step? We look forward to engaging with you further. Apply now!**