Data Scientist-Ii

Fnbnamibia; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 850,000; Full time

Job summary

FirstRand Limited in Johannesburg is seeking a Data Scientist-II to plan, build, and deploy advanced quantitative models for financial crime analytics and opportunity insights. You will develop and govern modelling solutions with minimal guidance, collaborating across risk, business and tech teams.

The role requires 2+ years of hands-on modelling experience, strong SAS/SQL/Python skills, and the ability to translate complex results for non-technical stakeholders in a regulated environment.

Qualifications

• Honours Degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Actuarial Science, Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• 2+ years of hands-on experience in developing and implementing analytical models, preferably in financial services.
• Strong scripting skills in SAS, SQL, and Python.
• Experience collaborating across multiple teams.
• Experience in financial crime, fraud detection, or AML/CFT is a strong advantage.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Job description

Data Scientist-II

FirstRand Limited

Location: Johannesburg

Posted today

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.

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 us 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.

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

All appointments will be made in line with FirstRand Group’s Employment Equity plan.