Principal Data Scientist (AI Focus)

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 2,000,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Equity potential

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development budget

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Principal Data Scientist to lead AI initiatives in Sandton, Gauteng. You will drive advanced analytics, build sophisticated predictive models, and extract actionable insights from complex datasets.

The role requires mentoring teams and collaborating with business leaders to translate data-driven discoveries into strategic solutions. The ideal candidate has a Ph.D.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Data Science, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience as a Data Scientist with emphasis on AI and ML.
• Proven track record leading complex data science projects from conception to deployment.
• Proficiency in Python or R and ML libraries (TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and deployment of advanced ML/AI models.
• Analyze large datasets to identify patterns and opportunities for business improvement.
• Develop predictive models, recommendations, and AI-driven solutions.
• Translate business problems into data science projects and roadmaps.
• Mentor junior data scientists and analysts; foster learning and innovation.
• Stay updated on AI research and communicate findings to stakeholders.
• Develop and maintain robust data pipelines and analytics frameworks.
• Evaluate new tools and technologies to boost capabilities.

Skills

Data science leadership

AI/ML expertise

Python/R

Communication

Education

Advanced degree in CS/Stats/Math/Data Science

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

Spark

Hadoop

AWS/Azure/GCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal Data Scientist with a strong focus on Artificial Intelligence to join their leading-edge team in Sandton, Gauteng. This senior role is pivotal in driving advanced analytics and AI initiatives, developing sophisticated predictive models, and extracting actionable insights from complex datasets. You will lead challenging projects, mentor junior data scientists, and collaborate closely with business leaders and engineering teams to translate data-driven discoveries into impactful business solutions. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional to make a significant impact in a collaborative and innovative environment, based in the heart of South Africa's economic hub, Sandton .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced machine learning and AI models.
• Analyze large, complex datasets to identify patterns, trends, and opportunities for business improvement.
• Develop predictive models, recommendation systems, and other AI-driven solutions.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to understand business problems and translate them into data science projects.
• Mentor and guide junior data scientists and analysts, fostering a culture of learning and innovation.
• Stay abreast of the latest research and advancements in AI, machine learning, and data science.
• Communicate complex findings and recommendations clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Develop and maintain robust data pipelines and analytical frameworks.
• Evaluate and implement new tools and technologies to enhance data science capabilities.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Data Science, or a related quantitative field.
• Extensive experience (8+ years) as a Data Scientist, with a significant focus on AI and machine learning.
• Proven track record of successfully leading complex data science projects from conception to deployment.
• Expertise in programming languages such as Python or R, and proficiency with ML libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).
• Deep understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms, and data mining techniques.
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and presentation skills.
• Experience working within the South African business context, ideally in Gauteng .
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a high-stakes environment.

Benefits

• Top-tier compensation package, including a significant annual bonus and potential for equity.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement fund contributions.
• Generous professional development budget for conferences, courses, and certifications.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge AI projects and influence strategic decisions.
• Dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment in Sandton.
• Executive perks and benefits.