Data Scientist-II

firstrand; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 540,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Networking opportunities

Challenging work

Innovative projects

Job summary

FirstRand invites applications for a data scientist role focused on quantitative analytics to plan, build, optimise and implement advanced models for financial crime analytics. You will translate complex methods into actionable insights for business stakeholders.

You will join a diverse talent team and work across risk, technology and business units to improve model effectiveness and compliance while supporting junior data scientists.

Qualifications

• Honours degree in Mathematics, Statistics, CS, Actuarial Science, Engineering, Physics, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Deliver on model development, implementation and governance for financial crime analytics.
• Identify analytical opportunities and solve unstructured problems with minimal guidance.
• Translate technical solutions into actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders.
• Deliver clear and comprehensive technical documentation for models and processes.
• Collaborate with business, risk and technology teams to drive model effectiveness and compliance.
• Support junior Data Scientists in developing technical and business skills.
• Apply SAS, SQL and Python for data manipulation, modelling and automation.
• Uphold model governance standards and participate in monitoring.
• Demonstrate initiative and a solution-oriented mindset in high-stakes, regulated environments.

Skills

SAS

SQL

Python

Education

Honours degree in Mathematics, Statistics, CS, Actuarial Science, Engineering, Physics, or related field

Tools

SAS

SQL

Python

Job description

To plan, build, optimise and implement innovative quantitative analytical methodologies, procedures, products and advanced mathematical models that provide analytical support and interpret insights, to address business opportunities and problems and implement business strategy, with minimal guidance.

Hello Future Data Scientist II

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:

• Deliver on model development, implementation, and governance for financial crime risk analytics (AML/CFT, transaction monitoring, sanctions screening).
• Proactively identify analytical opportunities and solve unstructured problems with minimal guidance.
• Translate technical solutions into actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders.
• Deliver clear and comprehensive technical documentation for models and processes.
• Collaborate with business, risk, and technology teams across the FirstRand group to drive model effectiveness and compliance.
• Support junior Data Scientists in developing both technical and business skills.
• Apply SAS, SQL, and Python scripting for data manipulation, modelling, and automation.
• Uphold model and rule governance standards and participate in periodic monitoring and reviews.
• Demonstrate initiative and a solution-oriented mindset in high-stakes, regulated environments.

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 2+ years of hands‑on experience in developing and implementing analytical models, preferably in financial services.
• Possess strong scripting skills in SAS, SQL, and Python.
• Have experience in collaborating across multiple teams.
• Experience in financial crime, fraud detection, or AML/CFT is a strong 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.

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.

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.

23/09/26