Principal Data Scientist - Machine Learning

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Professional development budget

Access to cutting-edge tools

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Data Scientist with a Machine Learning specialization to join a cutting-edge R&D team in Polokwane, Limpopo. You will lead complex data science projects, design and deploy advanced models, and mentor junior data scientists.

The role requires a Master’s/PhD in a quantitative field, 7+ years of experience, and strong Python/R with ML frameworks and big data tech. You will translate insights into business impact and drive data-driven strategies.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in data science with a strong ML focus.
• Proven expertise in developing and deploying ML models (regression, classification, clustering, deep learning, reinforcement learning).

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced ML models and algorithms.
• Explore, clean, and analyze large datasets to identify trends and insights.
• Develop feature engineering strategies to optimize model performance.
• Evaluate and select ML techniques and tools for projects.
• Collaborate with software engineers and product managers to integrate ML solutions.
• Mentor and guide junior data scientists; provide technical feedback.

Skills

Machine Learning

Mentoring

Statistical modeling

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in a quantitative field

Tools

Python

R

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

SQL

Spark

Hadoop

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent technology innovator, is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Principal Data Scientist with a specialization in Machine Learning to join their cutting-edge research and development team. This role, based in Polokwane, Limpopo, will be instrumental in leveraging large datasets to develop sophisticated predictive models and AI-driven solutions that enhance our client's products and services. You will be responsible for leading complex data science projects, mentoring junior data scientists, and driving the adoption of advanced machine learning techniques across the organization. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms, and programming, coupled with exceptional problem-solving skills and the ability to translate complex findings into actionable business insights. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape the future of data-driven innovation in Polokwane.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced machine learning models and algorithms for various business applications.
• Explore, clean, and analyze large, complex datasets to identify trends, patterns, and actionable insights.
• Develop and implement feature engineering strategies to optimize model performance.
• Evaluate and select appropriate machine learning techniques and tools for specific projects.
• Collaborate with software engineers and product managers to integrate machine learning solutions into existing products and platforms.
• Mentor and guide junior data scientists, providing technical expertise and feedback.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data science, and explore their potential applications.
• Communicate complex technical findings and recommendations clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Contribute to the development of data science best practices and standards within the organization.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in data science, with a strong focus on machine learning.
• Proven expertise in developing and deploying machine learning models (e.g., regression, classification, clustering, deep learning, reinforcement learning).
• Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in data science, such as Python (with libraries like scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch) and R.
• Strong experience with SQL and working knowledge of big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop).
• Excellent understanding of statistical concepts and experimental design.
• Demonstrated ability to work with large and complex datasets.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
• Opportunity to work on challenging and impactful data science projects.
• Access to advanced computing infrastructure and cutting-edge tools in Polokwane, Limpopo.
• Generous budget for professional development, conferences, and training.
• A collaborative and innovative work culture.
• Opportunities for career advancement and leadership growth.
• Performance-based bonuses and recognition.