Lead Data Scientist - Machine Learning

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary & bonus structure

Medical and retirement benefits

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch seeks an experienced Lead Data Scientist to guide machine learning initiatives, develop predictive models, and mentor a team of data scientists.

You will tackle business problems with advanced analytics, collaborate across departments, and help shape the data strategy in a hybrid work environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in a quantitative field such as Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, or Mathematics.
• 8+ years of professional experience in data science and machine learning, with demonstrated leadership experience.
• Expert proficiency in programming languages like Python or R, and libraries such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn.
• Strong experience with statistical modeling, predictive analytics, and deep learning techniques.
• Familiarity with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex concepts clearly.
• Proven track record of delivering impactful data science solutions in a business context.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and deployment of machine learning models to solve complex business problems.
• Design and implement data mining strategies and statistical analyses to extract actionable insights.
• Mentor and guide junior data scientists, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across departments to understand business needs and translate them into data science projects.
• Develop and maintain robust data pipelines for model training and evaluation.
• Present complex findings and recommendations to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in machine learning, AI, and data science methodologies.

Skills

Leadership

Python

R

Statistical modeling

Machine learning

Communication

Deep learning

Education

PhD or MSc in Data Science or related quantitative field

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

Spark

Hadoop

AWS / Azure / GCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for an innovative and experienced Lead Data Scientist to guide their machine learning initiatives in Stellenbosch . This leadership role involves developing sophisticated predictive models, driving data-driven decision-making, and mentoring a team of talented data scientists. You will tackle challenging business problems by applying advanced analytical techniques and machine learning algorithms to large datasets. This is an exceptional opportunity for a visionary leader to shape the future of data science within a forward-thinking organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and deployment of machine learning models to solve complex business problems.
• Design and implement data mining strategies and statistical analyses to extract actionable insights.
• Mentor and guide junior data scientists, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across departments to understand business needs and translate them into data science projects.
• Develop and maintain robust data pipelines for model training and evaluation.
• Present complex findings and recommendations to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in machine learning , AI, and data science methodologies.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in a quantitative field such as Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, or Mathematics.
• 8+ years of professional experience in data science and machine learning, with demonstrated leadership experience.
• Expert proficiency in programming languages like Python or R, and libraries such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn.
• Strong experience with statistical modeling, predictive analytics, and deep learning techniques.
• Familiarity with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex concepts clearly.
• Proven track record of delivering impactful data science solutions in a business context.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and attractive bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical, retirement, and other employee benefits.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility and work-life balance.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and leading innovative projects.
• Collaborative environment with access to cutting-edge technology and resources.