Lead Data Scientist - AI & Machine Learning

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work flexibility

Competitive salary

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Data Scientist to head AI/ML initiatives on a fully remote team. You will design sophisticated predictive models, mentor senior and junior data scientists, and collaborate with engineering and product groups to deliver data-driven solutions.

You will drive scalable ML pipelines and stay at the forefront of AI research. The role requires a PhD/Master’s in a quantitative field with 8+ years of data science experience, strong Python/R skills, and hands-on cloud

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a quantitative field.
• 8+ years of professional data science experience.
• Experience leading data science projects, including remote settings.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy advanced ML models and algorithms.
• Mentor and lead a team of data scientists.
• Translate business problems into data-driven AI/ML solutions.
• Build and maintain scalable ML pipelines for data processing and deployment.
• Research and apply new AI/ML techniques for innovation.
• Interpret model results and communicate insights to diverse audiences.

Skills

Leadership & mentoring

Python

R

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

ML pipelines

Remote/team management

Education

Master's or PhD in CS/Statistics/Data Science

Tools

AWS

Azure

GCP

Big data

Docker

Kubernetes

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a highly skilled and innovative Lead Data Scientist specializing in AI and Machine Learning to join their fully remote team. This position is central to developing and deploying sophisticated predictive models and intelligent systems that will drive strategic decision-making across the organization. You will lead a talented team of data scientists, mentor junior members, and collaborate closely with engineering and product teams to bring advanced analytical solutions to life. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of AI within a forward-thinking company, working from anywhere in the world.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced machine learning models and algorithms.
• Mentor and guide a team of data scientists, fostering their technical growth and project success.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to define business problems and translate them into data-driven solutions using AI/ML.
• Develop and maintain scalable ML pipelines, ensuring efficient data processing and model deployment.
• Conduct thorough research on new AI/ML techniques and technologies to identify opportunities for innovation.
• Oversee the interpretation of complex model results and communicate findings effectively to technical and non-technical audiences.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Statistics, Data Science, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in data science , with a strong focus on AI and machine learning .
• Proven expertise in programming languages such as Python or R, and relevant ML libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).
• Demonstrated experience in leading data science projects and managing teams, preferably in a remote setting.
• Strong understanding of statistical modeling, data mining, and predictive analytics techniques.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and big data technologies is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Fully remote work environment, offering unparalleled flexibility and work-life balance.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous allocation for professional development, including online courses and conference attendance.
• Opportunity to work on challenging and impactful projects at the forefront of AI and machine learning .