Principal Data Scientist (ML) — Lead AI & Analytics

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Retirement fund matching

Generous vacation

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Data Scientist in Centurion, Gauteng to lead machine learning initiatives within the analytics division. Develop and deploy sophisticated models driving business insights, optimize operations, and open new revenue streams in a modern on-site facility.

The role requires 10+ years of data science experience, advanced Python/R skills, deep ML knowledge, and strong leadership. You will mentor teams, translate business problems into data-driven projects, and influence

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, or a related quantitative field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in data science with a focus on ML model development and deployment.
• Expert proficiency in Python or R, including libraries such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn, Pandas and NumPy.
• Deep understanding of ML algorithms (regression, classification, clustering, deep learning, reinforcement learning) and their applications.
• Proven experience with large, complex datasets and distributed computing frameworks (e.g., Spark).
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and MLOps best practices.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and leadership capabilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to work on-site at our Centurion facility.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced ML models for predictive analytics, anomaly detection, and optimization tasks.
• Mentor and guide junior data scientists, fostering technical excellence and continuous learning.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to define business requirements and translate them into actionable data science projects.
• Perform complex data analysis, including feature engineering, data mining, and statistical modeling to extract insights.
• Develop and deploy scalable ML solutions into production with data engineering teams.
• Evaluate and select algorithms and tools for various data science challenges.
• Stay abreast of ML/AI advancements and identify opportunities for innovation.
• Communicate complex findings clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.

Skills

Python

R

Machine learning

Leadership

Communication

Education

PhD or Master’s in CS/Stats/Math/Physics

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

Pandas

NumPy

Spark

AWS/Azure/GCP

Job description

Placements24 seeks a Principal Data Scientist in Centurion, Gauteng to lead machine learning initiatives within the analytics division. Develop and deploy sophisticated models driving business insights, optimize operations, and open new revenue streams in a modern on-site facility.

The role requires 10+ years of data science experience, advanced Python/R skills, deep ML knowledge, and strong leadership. You will mentor teams, translate business problems into data-driven projects, and influence