Data Scientist - Predictive Modeling

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Health insurance

Professional development

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA is seeking a Data Scientist focused on predictive modeling. You will work on advanced ML methods, handle large datasets, and translate results into actionable business insights. The role emphasizes collaboration with stakeholders and building scalable data pipelines.

The ideal candidate has strong Python or R skills, SQL experience, and a track record in predictive analytics within a dynamic AI environment. Hybrid work is offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in a quantitative field.
• Proven experience with predictive modeling.
• Proficiency in Python or R and data science libraries.
• SQL experience for data extraction/manipulation.
• Strong knowledge of ML algorithms and validation techniques.
• Experience with data visualization is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement predictive models using ML and statistics.
• Collect, clean, and preprocess large, complex datasets.
• Perform exploratory data analysis to identify patterns and insights.
• Evaluate model performance and iteratively improve accuracy.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to translate needs into data science problems.
• Communicate findings clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Develop and maintain data pipelines and analytical workflows.
• Stay up-to-date with advances in data science and analytics.
• Contribute to data-driven strategies and solutions.

Skills

Predictive modeling

Data analysis

Communication

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Data Science/Statistics/CS/Math

Quantitative field background

Tools

Python

R

Pandas

NumPy

Scikit-learn

Statsmodels

SQL

Job description

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct, a dynamic company operating in the AI & Emerging Technologies sector, is seeking a highly skilled Data Scientist with expertise in Predictive Modeling to join their innovative team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA. This role is crucial for leveraging data to build sophisticated predictive models that drive business insights and strategic decision-making. You will work with complex datasets, apply advanced statistical and machine learning techniques, and translate findings into actionable recommendations. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to data-driven innovation within a growing industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement predictive models using machine learning algorithms and statistical techniques.
• Collect, clean, and preprocess large and complex datasets from various sources.
• Perform exploratory data analysis to identify patterns, trends, and insights.
• Evaluate and validate model performance, iteratively improving accuracy and robustness.
• Collaborate with business stakeholders to understand their needs and translate them into data science problems.
• Communicate complex findings and recommendations clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Develop and maintain data pipelines and analytical workflows.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and predictive analytics.
• Contribute to the development of data-driven strategies and solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
• Proven experience as a Data Scientist, with a strong focus on predictive modeling.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and relevant data science libraries (e.g., Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, Statsmodels).
• Experience with SQL for data extraction and manipulation.
• Solid understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms (e.g., regression, classification, time series analysis), and validation techniques.
• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Matplotlib, Seaborn, Tableau) is a plus.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and manage multiple projects.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive benefits including health insurance.
• Opportunities for professional development and upskilling.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Hybrid work arrangement for a better work-life balance.
• Exposure to diverse and challenging data science projects.