Lead Data Scientist

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical insurance

Pension scheme

Performance-based bonuses

Gym membership

Team social events

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Data Scientist in Soweto to head a team of data professionals and drive AI-powered decisions. You will define the strategic direction for data science projects and deliver actionable insights from complex datasets.

The role requires 7+ years in data science with leadership experience, strong Python or R skills, and expertise in ML, SQL, and data visualization. You will shape data pipelines and collaborate with stakeholders to improve products and operations.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or related quantitative field.
• 7+ years of experience in data science or analytical roles with leadership track record.
• Proficiency in Python or R and libraries such as pandas, NumPy, scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch.
• Extensive SQL experience with large relational/non-relational databases.
• Deep understanding of statistical modeling, ML techniques, and experimental design.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of data scientists.
• Develop and implement advanced statistical models and ML algorithms for complex problems.
• Identify opportunities to leverage data to drive growth and efficiency.
• Design data exploration and analysis strategies to uncover trends.
• Translate business requirements into data science projects.
• Communicate analytical findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders via visualizations.
• Develop and maintain data pipelines and infrastructure for DS workflows.
• Stay updated on data science advancements.
• Ensure ethical and responsible use of data.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Statistical modeling

Machine learning

Python

R

SQL

Big data

Data visualization

Education

Master's or PhD in quantitative field

Tools

Tableau

Power BI

pandas

NumPy

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Spark

Hadoop

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering analytics firm situated in the vibrant community of Soweto, Gauteng , is looking for an accomplished Lead Data Scientist to spearhead their data-driven initiatives. This pivotal role involves leading a team of data professionals, defining the strategic direction for data science projects, and driving innovation through advanced analytics and machine learning. The successful candidate will be responsible for extracting actionable insights from complex datasets, developing predictive models, and communicating findings to stakeholders across the organization. This position offers a unique chance to make a substantial impact in a growing company, working on challenging problems that shape business decisions and customer experiences. If you are a visionary data leader with a passion for uncovering hidden patterns and delivering data-centric solutions, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity in Soweto .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of data scientists, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
• Develop and implement advanced statistical models and machine learning algorithms to solve complex business problems.
• Identify opportunities for leveraging company data to drive business growth and improve operational efficiency.
• Design and execute data exploration and analysis strategies to uncover trends and insights.
• Translate business requirements into well-defined data science projects.
• Communicate complex analytical findings and recommendations to technical and non-technical stakeholders through compelling visualizations and presentations.
• Develop and maintain data pipelines and infrastructure necessary for data science workflows.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.
• Ensure the ethical and responsible use of data throughout the organization.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
• 7+ years of experience in data science or a related analytical role, with a proven track record of leading projects.
• Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and experience with relevant libraries (e.g., pandas, NumPy, scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Extensive experience with SQL and working with large relational and non-relational databases.
• Deep understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning techniques, and experimental design.
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) is a significant plus.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor a team.
• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) is desirable.

Benefits

Our client provides a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, alongside a comprehensive benefits program. This includes private medical insurance, a generous pension scheme, and performance-based bonuses. We are committed to your professional growth, offering opportunities for advanced training, conference attendance, and publication support. The role is based in our modern offices in Soweto, Gauteng , providing a collaborative workspace. We foster a culture of innovation and continuous learning. Additional perks include subsidized gym memberships and regular team social events. This role requires on-site presence to facilitate close team collaboration and direct engagement with our Soweto -based operations.