Data Scientist Ii - Quantumblack, Ai By Mckinsey

Mckinsey & Company, Inc.; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 900 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global consulting firm is seeking a Data Scientist to leverage deep learning and AI for business performance improvement. Located in Johannesburg, you will mentor team members and build impactful analytics solutions. Candidates should have a relevant degree and 3-5 years of experience in machine learning and distributed computing. Strong programming skills and client-facing abilities are essential. This role offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

Competitive salary

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of deep technical experience in distributed computing, machine learning and statistical work.
• Proven application of advanced analytical, data science and statistical methods in the commercial world.
• Exceptional time management to meet responsibilities in a complex work environment.

Responsibilities

• Leverage advances in deep learning, reinforcement learning and AI to improve business performance.
• Mentor other data scientists and shape the R&D roadmap.
• Build end-to-end analytics solutions that create real-world impact.

Skills

Deep technical experience

Programming in Python, R, Scala or SQL

Client-facing skills

Strong communication skills

Education

Bachelors, Master’s or PhD in computer science, machine learning, applied statistics, mathematics, engineering or AI

Tools

Python

SQL

Airflow

Databricks

Docker

Kubernetes

AWS

GCP

Azure

Job description

Job description

When you join us, you’ll experience a high‑performance culture that is different in a way you won’t find anywhere else. Continuous learning is at our core: our learning and apprenticeship culture, backed by structured programs, is all about helping you grow while creating an environment where feedback is clear, actionable and focused on development.

The real magic happens when you take input from others to heart and embrace fast‑paced learning, owning your journey. Your voice matters from day one – we value ideas and contributions and expect you to make a tangible impact by offering innovative ideas and practical solutions. We encourage diverse perspectives, which are critical in driving us toward the best possible outcomes.

Our global community spans 65+ countries with colleagues from many nationalities, fueling creativity and helping us come up with the best solutions for clients. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn from exceptional colleagues with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

We offer world‑class benefits. On top of a competitive salary based on your location, experience and skills, we provide a comprehensive benefits package to enable holistic well‑being for you and your family.

As a Data Scientist

In this role, you will leverage the latest advances in deep learning, reinforcement learning and AI to uncover insights and improve business performance. You will mentor other data scientists, shape QuantumBlack’s R&D roadmap, and identify high‑potential machine learning initiatives for industry applications. Working closely with data engineers, machine learning engineers and designers, you will build end‑to‑end analytics solutions that create real‑world impact. Your work will transform industries. By leveraging advanced AI techniques and collaborating with industry leaders, you will help clients gain a competitive edge, solve critical challenges and achieve lasting improvements in their operations.

You will be based in one of our McKinsey Digital Africa offices – Johannesburg or Casablanca – and collaborate closely with data scientists, data engineers, machine learning engineers, designers and product managers around the world. Together you’ll work on interdisciplinary projects to solve complex business challenges across a range of industries. Collaborating with QuantumBlack leadership, client executives and technical experts, you will lead the development and application of cutting‑edge machine learning and AI solutions to drive measurable business impact. At McKinsey you’ll thrive in an unparalleled environment for growth, work on high‑impact projects, connect technology with business value and collaborate with inspiring multidisciplinary teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelors, Master’s or PhD level degree in disciplines such as computer science, machine learning, applied statistics, mathematics, engineering or artificial intelligence
• 3‑5 years of deep technical experience in distributed computing, machine learning and statistical work
• Programming experience in languages such as Python, R, Scala or SQL
• Proven application of advanced analytical, data science and statistical methods in the commercial world
• Knowledge of distributed computing or NoSQL technologies is a bonus
• Client‑facing skills such as working in close‑knit teams on topics such as data warehousing and machine learning
• Experience with Python, PySpark, the PyData stack, SQL, Airflow, Databricks, our own open‑source data pipelining framework called Kedro, Dask/RAPIDS, container technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes, cloud solutions such as AWS, GCP and Azure, and more
• Exceptional time management to meet responsibilities in a complex and largely autonomous work environment
• Demonstrated leadership (thought leadership or people leadership, e.g. managing project teams or direct reports)
• Willingness to travel
• Good presentation and communication skills, with a knack for explaining complex analytical concepts to people from other fields
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, in English and the local office language(s), with the ability to adjust style to suit different perspectives and seniority levels