Principal Data Scientist, Machine Learning

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Relocation assistance

Training & conference attendance

On-site Rustenburg location

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Data Scientist (ML) to join its research division in Rustenburg on-site. You will lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced ML models, mentor junior data scientists, and shape the data strategy for cutting-edge projects.

The role demands deep ML expertise, strong communication, and the ability to translate analytics into business impact. You will collaborate with engineers, product managers, and domain experts to drive scalable data pipelines

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, or related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in data science with a strong ML focus.
• Proven expertise in diverse ML algorithms including regression, classification, clustering, deep learning, NLP.
• Proficiency in Python or R and libraries such as scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Pandas.
• Experience with big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Strong statistical modeling, experimental design, and data visualization skills.
• Excellent problem-solving, independence and teamwork, and clear communication.
• Demonstrated experience leading complex data science projects; familiarity with Git and testing.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy advanced ML models for predictive analytics and optimization.
• Lead the full data science lifecycle from data collection to deployment.
• Collaborate with domain experts, engineers, and product managers to turn business needs into DS solutions.
• Analyze large datasets to uncover trends and opportunities.
• Develop and maintain robust data pipelines and MLOps frameworks for scale and reliability.
• Communicate complex findings to technical and executive audiences.
• Mentor junior data scientists and foster their growth.
• Stay abreast of ML/AI advances and best practices.
• Contribute to strategic direction of the DS team and data initiatives.
• Ensure ethical and responsible use of data and models.

Skills

Machine learning

Data science leadership

Python

R

Communication

Education

PhD or MSc in quantitative field

Tools

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Pandas

Spark

Hadoop

AWS

Azure

GCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Data Scientist with a specialization in Machine Learning to join their innovative research division based in Rustenburg. This role is integral to developing and implementing sophisticated data-driven solutions that will shape the future of our scientific endeavors. You will be at the forefront of leveraging advanced algorithms and statistical modeling to extract actionable insights from vast datasets. This position demands a deep understanding of machine learning principles, extensive experience in building and deploying predictive models, and the ability to translate complex analytical findings into strategic business recommendations. As a key member of our on-site team, you will foster collaboration, mentor junior data scientists, and contribute significantly to our cutting-edge projects. We are committed to creating an environment where groundbreaking research thrives, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and a culture that encourages intellectual curiosity and continuous learning. This is an unparalleled opportunity to lead impactful projects in a challenging and rewarding setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy advanced machine learning models for predictive analytics, pattern recognition, and optimization.
• Lead the full data science lifecycle, from data collection and cleaning to model training, validation, and deployment.
• Collaborate closely with domain experts, engineers, and product managers to identify business needs and translate them into data science solutions.
• Analyze large, complex datasets to uncover trends, insights, and opportunities for improvement.
• Develop and maintain robust data pipelines and MLOps frameworks to ensure scalability and reliability.
• Communicate complex technical findings and recommendations clearly and concisely to both technical and executive audiences.
• Mentor and guide junior data scientists, fostering their growth and technical expertise.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data science methodologies.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the data science team and the company's data initiatives.
• Ensure the ethical and responsible use of data and machine learning models.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in data science, with a strong focus on machine learning.
• Proven expertise in developing and implementing a wide range of machine learning algorithms (e.g., regression, classification, clustering, deep learning, NLP).
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and experience with relevant libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Pandas).
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Strong understanding of statistical modeling, experimental design, and data visualization techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas effectively.
• Demonstrated experience leading complex data science projects from inception to completion.
• Familiarity with software development best practices, including version control (Git) and testing.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement plan, and substantial paid time off. Opportunities for professional growth include extensive training, conference attendance, and internal mobility. The Rustenburg location provides a vibrant community, and the company culture emphasizes innovation and collaboration. We provide relocation assistance for eligible candidates and performance-based incentives.