Lead Data Scientist - AI & Machine Learning

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Professional development

Conference opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Lead Data Scientist to head AI/ML initiatives in Tembisa, SA. You will define the data science roadmap, translate business problems into actionable analytics, and drive innovation in a collaborative setting.

You will mentor a team of data scientists and engineers, collaborating with stakeholders to deliver high-impact solutions, and communicate insights to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or related quantitative field.
• 7+ years of experience in data science with a proven track record of leading ML projects.
• Expertise in statistical modeling, ML algorithms (supervised, unsupervised, deep learning), and experimental design.
• Proficiency in Python or R and libraries such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn.
• Strong experience with data manipulation tools (SQL, Spark) and big data technologies.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced ML models and AI solutions.
• Mentor and guide a team of data scientists and engineers.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across departments to identify data-driven opportunities.
• Perform complex data analysis, feature engineering, and model evaluation.
• Stay current with AI advances and advocate their adoption.
• Communicate findings clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.

Skills

Machine learning

Statistical modeling

Experiment design

Python

R

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Education

Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or related quantitative field

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

SQL

Spark

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Data Scientist to spearhead their AI and Machine Learning initiatives in Tembisa . This pivotal role involves leading a team of data scientists and engineers to develop and implement sophisticated predictive models and intelligent systems that will revolutionize our client's core business operations. You will be instrumental in defining the data science roadmap, translating complex business problems into actionable data-driven solutions, and fostering a culture of innovation. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in a growing organization, driving strategic decisions through advanced analytics and machine learning in a hands-on, collaborative setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced machine learning models and AI solutions to address key business challenges.
• Mentor and guide a team of data scientists, fostering their technical growth and ensuring high-quality project delivery.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across various departments to identify opportunities for data-driven insights and automation.
• Perform complex data analysis, feature engineering, and model evaluation to ensure accuracy and effectiveness.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI, machine learning, and data science, and advocate for their adoption.
• Communicate findings, insights, and recommendations clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
• 7+ years of experience in data science, with a proven track record of leading successful ML projects.
• Expertise in statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms (supervised, unsupervised, deep learning), and experimental design.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and experience with relevant libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).
• Strong experience with data manipulation and analysis tools (SQL, Spark) and big data technologies.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package with attractive bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, disability, and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development, including attending major AI conferences.
• Significant role in shaping the future of AI within the organization.
• A challenging and rewarding work environment focused on innovation.
• On-site facilities designed for employee well-being and productivity.