Data Scientist-I

FNB South Africa; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Networking opportunities

Challenging work

Opportunities to innovate

Job summary

FNB South Africa is seeking an early-career Data Scientist to build and implement quantitative analytical methods and models. You will work with senior data scientists to solve financial crime analytics challenges and translate insights for business stakeholders.

Ideal candidates have 1–2 years’ experience, knowledge of SAS/SQL/Python, and a degree in a quantitative field. This role offers growth in a collaborative environment within the FirstRand group.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years hands-on experience in data analysis, modeling, or analytics-related roles, preferably in financial services.
• Working knowledge of SAS, SQL and Python.
• Exposure to financial crime concepts is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• 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 data exploration to identify trends, patterns and risks.
• Translate technical analyses into actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders.
• Contribute to clear technical documentation for models and processes.
• Collaborate with business, risk, and technology teams under guidance from senior members.
• Continue to develop technical and business skills through hands-on project support.

Skills

Data analysis

Modeling

Analytics

Team collaboration

Education

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

Tools

SAS

SQL

Python

Job description

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.

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.

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

• 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.
• Thrives in a collaborative environment.

Important Closing Date Note

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

28/09/26

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.