Lead Data Scientist - AI & Machine Learning

Placements24; Gallup (NM); Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental and vision

Remote work

Professional development budget

Access to advanced data tools

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Data Scientist to spearhead AI and ML initiatives in a fully remote setting. You will lead a talented team, develop predictive models, and translate data into strategic insights for the business.

The ideal candidate has a Master's or PhD, 7+ years in data science with at least 2 years in leadership, and strong Python/R experience with ML libraries. Cloud and big-data experience, plus excellent remote collaboration skills, are essential.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D in a quantitative field such as Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, or Mathematics.
• 7+ years of data science experience, with at least 2 years in a lead or management role.
• Proven expertise in developing and deploying machine learning models using Python or R, and relevant libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn).
• Strong understanding of statistical modeling, experimental design, and A/B testing.
• Experience with big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with demonstrated success in remote collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced machine learning models and AI solutions.
• Conduct in-depth data analysis, identify trends, and derive actionable insights to inform business strategy.
• Mentor and guide a team of data scientists and analysts, fostering a culture of learning and innovation.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to integrate AI/ML models into production systems.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI, machine learning, and data science, evaluating their potential application.
• Communicate complex findings and recommendations clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Skills

leadership

Python/R

ML libraries

communication

Education

Master's or PhD in a quantitative field

7+ years data science experience

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Scikit-learn

Spark

Hadoop

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Data Scientist to spearhead their AI and Machine Learning initiatives within a fully remote framework. You will lead a talented team in developing and deploying sophisticated predictive models and AI-driven solutions that solve complex business challenges. This role offers the opportunity to influence the company's data strategy, explore innovative analytical approaches, and mentor aspiring data scientists. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms, and data engineering principles, coupled with strong leadership capabilities and a passion for turning data into actionable insights in a distributed work environment. This is a critical position that demands both technical depth and strategic foresight.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced machine learning models and AI solutions.
• Conduct in-depth data analysis, identify trends, and derive actionable insights to inform business strategy.
• Mentor and guide a team of data scientists and analysts, fostering a culture of learning and innovation.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to integrate AI/ML models into production systems.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI, machine learning, and data science, evaluating their potential application.
• Communicate complex findings and recommendations clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in a quantitative field such as Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, or Mathematics.
• 7+ years of experience in data science, with at least 2 years in a lead or management role.
• Proven expertise in developing and deploying machine learning models using Python or R, and relevant libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn).
• Strong understanding of statistical modeling, experimental design, and A/B testing.
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with demonstrated success in remote collaboration.

Benefits

• An industry-leading salary package, including performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Flexible remote work arrangements, empowering work-life balance.
• Generous budget for professional development, conferences, and training.
• Access to state-of-the-art tools and technologies for data analysis and model development.