Remote Lead Data Scientist - Mining Analytics

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement plan

Bonuses

Remote work

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Data Scientist for a fully remote role. You will drive advanced analytics, ML/AI initiatives, and data governance across mining operations, collaborating with global teams to turn complex data into actionable insights.

You have 10+ years in data science, leadership experience, and strong skills in Python/R, SQL/NoSQL, and cloud/MLOps. This role offers a competitive remuneration package and remote work flexibility.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or related quantitative field.
• 10+ years of experience in data science, with significant focus on applying ML/AI in industrial or resource sectors.
• Proven experience leading data science teams and projects.
• Expertise in Python or R, and data science libraries (scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Strong experience with SQL and NoSQL databases, and big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop).
• Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and MLOps practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of ML models and analytics for mining operations.
• Mentor and guide a team of data scientists.
• Collaborate with geology, operations, finance, exploration to identify data-science opportunities.
• Develop data mining strategies for large, complex datasets.
• Build and maintain data pipelines and infrastructure for advanced analytics.
• Communicate findings clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay updated on trends in data science and AI for mining.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking leader in the global **mining** industry, is actively seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Data Scientist to spearhead their advanced analytics initiatives. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere. You will be instrumental in leveraging vast datasets from exploration, production, and operational phases to uncover critical insights, optimize processes, and drive strategic decision-making across the organization. Your expertise will guide the development and implementation of sophisticated machine learning models, predictive analytics, and data visualization tools. This role demands a blend of technical prowess, leadership acumen, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the **mining** sector. You will be a key contributor to transforming raw data into actionable intelligence, fostering a data-driven culture, and enhancing operational efficiency and profitability. The position offers the unique opportunity to shape the future of data science within a major international **mining** enterprise, working collaboratively with diverse teams and contributing to impactful, real-world applications. You will be at the forefront of innovation, applying cutting-edge techniques to solve complex problems.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of machine learning models and advanced analytical solutions for **mining** operations.
• Mentor and guide a team of data scientists, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across various departments (geology, operations, finance, exploration) to identify key business challenges and opportunities addressable through data science.
• Develop and implement data mining strategies to extract valuable insights from large, complex datasets.
• Build and maintain robust data pipelines and infrastructure necessary for advanced analytics.
• Communicate complex findings and recommendations clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, particularly as they apply to the **mining** industry.
• Ensure the ethical and responsible use of data and AI within the organization.
• Contribute to the development of data governance and best practices.
• Drive innovation and champion the adoption of data-driven decision-making across the company.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
• 10+ years of experience in data science, with a significant portion focused on applying ML/AI in industrial or resource sectors.
• Proven experience leading data science teams and projects.
• Expertise in programming languages such as Python or R, and proficiency with data science libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Strong experience with SQL and NoSQL databases, and big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop).
• Demonstrated experience in developing and deploying predictive models, classification algorithms, and optimization techniques.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and MLOps practices.
• Excellent understanding of the **mining** lifecycle and its associated data challenges is highly advantageous.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work independently and effectively in a fully remote, global team environment.

Benefits

• This is a fully remote role offering significant flexibility. Our client provides a highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement savings plan, and performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and attending leading industry conferences.
• Access to cutting-edge tools and technologies.
• A stimulating and intellectually challenging work environment where your contributions directly impact business strategy and success.
• Potential for significant career growth within a globally recognized organization.
• Work-life balance supported by remote work flexibility.