Principal Data Scientist (Remote)

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

equity options

health coverage

remote work allowance

professional growth & research access

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Data Scientist for a fully remote role on a world-class research and development team. You will lead the design and deployment of cutting-edge ML models, explore large datasets, and mentor junior scientists while translating complex insights for strategic decisions.

The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. or Master’s in a quantitative field with 10+ years of experience in ML, statistics, and data mining, and is proficient in Python/R and modern ML libraries.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, or related field.
• 10+ years of professional data science/ML experience.
• Expertise in statistical modeling and ML algorithms (deep learning, RL, ensemble methods).
• Proficiency in Python or R and libraries (TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn, pandas, NumPy).
• Experience with big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop) and distributed computing.
• Strong SQL skills and experience with various databases.
• Ability to translate business problems into data science solutions.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder presentation skills.
• Experience working in fully remote teams.
• Publications or open-source contributions are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development and deployment of advanced ML models and algorithms.
• Perform data exploration, feature engineering, and statistical analysis on large datasets.
• Develop predictive models, classifiers, and clustering techniques.
• Collaborate with engineering to integrate models into production data pipelines.
• Communicate findings clearly to technical and non-technical executives.
• Mentor junior data scientists and analysts.
• Stay updated with latest data science research and methods.
• Identify opportunities to drive business value from data.

Skills

Statistical modeling

Machine learning

Deep learning

Reinforcement learning

Data mining

Education

PhD or Master's in a quantitative field

Tools

Python

R

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

pandas

NumPy

SQL

Spark

Hadoop

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in advanced analytics and machine learning solutions, is seeking an exceptional Principal Data Scientist to join their fully remote, elite research and development team. This is a unique opportunity to work on groundbreaking projects, leveraging vast datasets to drive strategic business decisions and develop predictive models that shape industries. You will be responsible for leading complex analytical initiatives, mentoring junior scientists, and communicating findings to executive leadership. The ideal candidate possesses a Ph.D. or Master's degree in a quantitative field, extensive experience in machine learning, and a proven ability to translate complex data insights into actionable strategies. This is a fully remote position, offering unparalleled flexibility and access to a world-class team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced machine learning models and algorithms.
• Conduct in-depth data exploration, feature engineering, and statistical analysis on large, complex datasets.
• Develop and implement predictive models, classification algorithms, and clustering techniques.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to integrate models into production systems and data pipelines.
• Communicate complex findings and recommendations clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, including executive leadership.
• Mentor and guide junior data scientists and analysts, fostering a culture of learning and innovation.
• Stay abreast of the latest research and advancements in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.
• Identify new opportunities for leveraging data to drive business value and strategic initiatives.
• Design and conduct experiments to validate hypotheses and measure the impact of implemented solutions.
• Ensure the ethical use of data and adherence to privacy regulations.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, or a related quantitative field.
• 10+ years of professional experience in data science, machine learning, or a related analytical role.
• Demonstrated expertise in statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms (e.g., deep learning, reinforcement learning, ensemble methods), and data mining techniques.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and relevant libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn, pandas, NumPy).
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and distributed computing.
• Strong SQL skills and experience working with various database systems.
• Proven ability to translate business problems into data science solutions.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience working effectively in a fully remote team environment.
• Published research or contributions to open-source data science projects are a significant plus.

Benefits

• Highly competitive compensation package, including equity options.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous remote work allowance and home office support.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, conferences, and research contributions.
• Flexible working hours and unlimited paid time off.
• Work on cutting-edge, impactful projects with a world-class remote team.
• Access to extensive training resources and learning platforms.
• Annual virtual team-building events and collaboration sessions.