Lead Data Scientist - AI Research

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Health benefits

Retirement benefits

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an innovative Lead Data Scientist to spearhead AI research initiatives from Tembisa. You will define research agendas, guide a team of data scientists, and develop next-generation AI models for diverse applications.

The role requires a PhD or Master’s in a quantitative field, at least 7 years of experience in data science, and strong leadership with proficiency in Python/R and ML libraries. You will mentor a team and drive projects from research to production.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Statistics, Artificial Intelligence, or related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional data science experience with a strong AI research focus.
• Proven leadership of technical teams and research projects.
• Proficiency in Python or R and ML libraries (TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn).
• Strong knowledge of ML algorithms including deep neural networks, NLP, and computer vision.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced ML and DL models.
• Define research strategies and roadmaps for AI projects aligned with business goals.
• Mentor and guide a team of data scientists, fostering collaboration and high performance.
• Conduct experiments to evaluate models and ensure robustness.
• Collaborate with engineering to deploy AI models into production and monitor performance.
• Stay updated with AI research and introduce new techniques and tools.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Presentation

Education

Master's or PhD in CS/Statistics/AI

Tools

Python

R

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Scikit-learn

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an innovative and experienced Lead Data Scientist to spearhead their Artificial Intelligence research initiatives in Tembisa . This leadership role will involve defining research agendas, guiding a team of talented data scientists, and developing next-generation AI models for diverse applications. You will be instrumental in exploring novel algorithms, evaluating cutting-edge technologies, and ensuring the translation of complex data insights into actionable business strategies. The ideal candidate thrives in a challenging, fast-paced R&D environment, possesses a deep understanding of machine learning theory and practice, and is passionate about driving technological innovation from their base in Tembisa .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced machine learning and deep learning models.
• Define research strategies and roadmaps for AI projects, aligning with business objectives and market opportunities.
• Mentor and guide a team of data scientists, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Conduct rigorous experiments to evaluate model performance, identify areas for improvement, and ensure robustness.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to deploy AI models into production environments and monitor their performance.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI and machine learning, introducing new techniques and tools to the team.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Statistics, Artificial Intelligence, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in data science, with a significant focus on AI research and development.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in managing technical teams and research projects.
• Expertise in programming languages such as Python or R, and proficiency with ML libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn).
• Strong understanding of various ML algorithms, including deep neural networks, NLP, and computer vision.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package with substantial performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, wellness, and retirement benefits.
• Generous budget for professional development, conferences, and further education.
• Opportunity to work on challenging, impactful AI research projects in Tembisa .
• A culture that encourages innovation, experimentation, and continuous learning.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.