Hybrid Lead AI/ML Scientist: Data Strategy & Team Lead

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Premium health coverage

Retirement planning

Life insurance

Ample paid time off

Professional development programs

Stock options

Cutting-edge technology resources

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Data Scientist with AI/ML expertise to lead a team in delivering advanced AI-driven solutions from our Sandton office. The role drives innovation through development, deployment, and continuous improvement of ML models that solve complex business challenges in a hybrid environment.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD or MSc with 7+ years in data science, strong leadership, deep ML knowledge, and proficiency in Python/R, TensorFlow, PyTorch, and big data/cloud technologies.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field with AI/ML specialization.
• Minimum of 7 years experience in data science and ML, with at least 2 years in leadership or team lead role.
• Deep understanding of ML algorithms (deep learning, NLP, RL, time series).
• Proficiency in Python or R and ML libraries (TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn).
• Experience with Spark/Hadoop and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and deployment of ML models and AI solutions.
• Mentor a team of data scientists to foster technical excellence and innovation.
• Collaborate with product managers, engineers, and stakeholders to define requirements and deliver AI features.
• Conduct advanced statistical analysis, data mining, and predictive modeling.
• Develop and deploy scalable ML pipelines; ensure production model performance and reliability.
• Evaluate and experiment with new AI/ML technologies and methodologies.
• Communicate findings and recommendations to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Contribute to data strategy and ensure ethical AI practices.

Skills

Leadership

AI/ML expertise

Statistical modeling

Communication

Python/R

Big data

Cloud platforms

Education

PhD or MSc in Computer Science/Statistics/Mathematics

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Scikit-learn

Spark

Hadoop

AWS

Azure/GCP

Job description

Placements24 seeks a Lead Data Scientist with AI/ML expertise to lead a team in delivering advanced AI-driven solutions from our Sandton office. The role drives innovation through development, deployment, and continuous improvement of ML models that solve complex business challenges in a hybrid environment.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD or MSc with 7+ years in data science, strong leadership, deep ML knowledge, and proficiency in Python/R, TensorFlow, PyTorch, and big data/cloud technologies.