Lead Data Scientist - AI & Machine Learning

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 260,000 - 460,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Data Scientist for a remote role spanning South Africa. The candidate will spearhead the development and deployment of advanced AI/ML models across products and operations, guiding a team of data scientists and mentoring juniors from Bloemfontein or anywhere in SA.

We expect a PhD or Master’s in a quantitative field with 8+ years of data science experience, strong leadership, and deep expertise in Python/R and ML libraries.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics or related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in data science with a focus on AI/ML.
• Proven experience leading data science teams and projects.
• Proficiency in Python or R and ML libraries (TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).
• Experience with big data (Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Strong SQL and NoSQL database skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and deployment of ML models and AI solutions.
• Mentor and manage a team of data scientists; provide technical guidance.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to translate business problems into data science initiatives.
• Develop data mining, warehousing, and data modeling strategies.
• Conduct advanced statistical analyses and build predictive models.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Remote collaboration

Education

PhD or Master's in a quantitative field

Tools

Python

R

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

Spark

Hadoop

AWS

Azure

GCP

SQL

NoSQL

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge technology firm at the forefront of artificial intelligence and machine learning, is seeking a highly experienced Lead Data Scientist. This is a fully remote role, offering the opportunity to work from anywhere within South Africa. You will spearhead the development and implementation of advanced AI/ML models that drive innovation across our client's product suite and business operations. This position demands a strategic thinker with a deep technical understanding of data science, machine learning algorithms, and predictive modeling. As a lead, you will guide a team of talented data scientists, mentor junior members, and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including engineering, product, and business units. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of delivering impactful data-driven solutions and possess exceptional leadership qualities. This remote-first environment emphasizes collaboration through digital tools, fostering an agile and dynamic work culture. Join us to shape the future of AI and make a significant impact from Bloemfontein, or wherever you call home.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of sophisticated machine learning models and AI solutions.
• Mentor and manage a team of data scientists, providing technical guidance and fostering professional growth.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across departments to identify business problems and translate them into data science initiatives.
• Develop and implement data mining, data warehousing, and data modeling strategies.
• Conduct advanced statistical analysis and build predictive models to uncover insights and drive decision-making.
• Evaluate and implement new AI/ML technologies and methodologies.
• Oversee the data pipeline, ensuring data quality, integrity, and accessibility.
• Communicate complex findings and recommendations clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay abreast of the latest research and advancements in AI, machine learning, and data science.
• Ensure ethical considerations and responsible AI practices are integrated into all projects.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in data science, with a significant focus on AI and machine learning.
• Proven experience leading data science teams and projects.
• Expertise in programming languages such as Python or R, and libraries like TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn.
• Strong understanding of various machine learning algorithms (e.g., deep learning, NLP, regression, classification).
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Proficiency in SQL and experience with NoSQL databases.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a remote, collaborative environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and bonus structure.
• As a fully remote position, it provides unparalleled flexibility and work-life balance.
• Employees receive comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a generous retirement savings plan.
• Professional development is prioritized, with access to cutting-edge training, conferences, and research opportunities.
• You will be part of an innovative and supportive team, working on impactful projects that are shaping the future of technology, irrespective of your physical location from Bloemfontein.