Data Scientist III

Capitec Bank; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Data Scientist to lead their AI strategy. This role offers the chance to shape innovative solutions using cutting-edge machine learning techniques, including deep learning and natural language processing. You'll be responsible for the entire machine learning lifecycle, from data preprocessing to model deployment, while mentoring junior team members. Join a dynamic team dedicated to making a positive impact in the banking sector, where your expertise will drive strategic decision-making and unlock the potential of clients and employees alike. If you are passionate about leveraging technology to improve lives, this opportunity is for you.

Benefits

Growth Opportunities

Employee Benefits

Diversity Commitment

Collaborative Team Environment

Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience in a Senior Data Science role.
• Hands-on experience deploying AI/ML solutions in real-world applications.
• Proficiency in Python/R and experience with databases.

Responsibilities

• Drive Capitec’s AI strategy and shape the vision from the ground up.
• Design, implement, and optimize predictive models and intelligent algorithms.
• Gather requirements and manage stakeholder engagement across the business.

Skills

Machine Learning

Deep Learning

Natural Language Processing

Python

Stakeholder Engagement

Problem Solving

Project Management

Education

Master's Degree in Statistics

Master's Degree in Mathematics

Master's Degree in Computer Science

Master's Degree in Physics

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Git

AWS

Azure

GCP

Job description

Apply by:

We're on the lookout for energetic, self-motivated individuals who share our passion for service in the banking industry. To be part of the journey, follow the steps below:

1. To see what life at Capitec is all about and complete a short assessment, please click here!
2. Once you have completed the above, finalize your application by clicking apply below.

Join Us in Becoming the Best Bank in the World!!

We appoint energized and motivated people for their potential and continuously look for talented, driven individuals to help us innovate and evolve. That is why we focus on finding the right people for the right jobs. We love what we do because we focus on making a positive difference for our clients and employees. Our company DNA is built around talented and committed teams dedicated to building a brand that we are proud of and that earns the trust of our clients.

Who we are:

We are a bank, but we’re much more than that. We believe that banking is about enabling people to control their financial lives through banking that is simplified, accessible, affordable, and delivered through personal experience. By helping our clients manage their financial lives better, we enable them to live better.

Why choose us:

At Capitec, we offer our best by living up to our CEO values in every situation – we always put the Client first, act with Energy, and take Ownership. To support people in being their best, our Employee Value Proposition offers every value to all team members through cohesive teams, growth opportunities, as well as employee benefits and savings. We prioritize making each member of the Capitec team feel welcome, valued, focused, and given opportunities to grow.

About this role:

As a Senior Data Scientist at Capitec, your purpose is to drive Capitec’s AI strategy, with the opportunity to shape and own this vision from the ground up. This involves leveraging advanced, practical knowledge of state-of-the-art machine learning principles and techniques—including deep learning, natural language processing (NLP), and reinforcement learning—to develop innovative models and solve complex business challenges. You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing predictive models and intelligent algorithms to uncover actionable insights that drive strategic decision-making across departments.

The role also includes the full machine learning lifecycle, from data preprocessing and experimental design to production-level model deployment. As a Senior Data Scientist, you will gather requirements and manage stakeholder engagement across the business, including executive management. Additionally, you will bring expertise in deep learning frameworks such as TensorFlow and PyTorch, while mentoring junior data scientists to foster a collaborative and growth-oriented team environment.

Our ideal candidate has:

• 6+ years of experience in a Senior Data Science role
• Master’s degree or higher in statistics, mathematics, computer science, or physics
• Hands-on experience deploying AI/ML solutions in real-world applications
• Experience with advanced data science principles including NLP, deep learning, reinforcement learning, or time-series modeling
• Proficiency in Python/R and experience with relational/non-relational databases
• Familiarity with modern deep learning frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow)
• Stakeholder engagement management experience, including at the executive level
• GitHub or Git experience

Ideal:

• AWS, Azure, or GCP experience

Competencies:

• Strategic thinking
• Leadership ability
• Problem-solving skills
• Decision-making skills
• Research skills
• Project management skills
• Planning, organizing, and coordination skills

Education:

• Completed a master’s degree or higher

If you are interested in joining this dynamic team, on a mission to build the best bank in the world by unlocking the potential of its people, please apply. We would love to hear from you!

Capitec is committed to diversity, and where feasible, all appointments will support our employment equity goals.