Remote Mining Data Scientist

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,501,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly analytical Remote Mining Data Scientist to drive innovation in global mining operations. The role focuses on leveraging big data to optimize exploration, extraction, and processing efficiencies, developing predictive models and extracting actionable insights for strategic decisions.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in data science, strong Python or R skills, SQL, and cloud/MLOps experience, with excellent communication in a collaborative virtual environment.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a quantitative field is required.
• Significant data science experience in mining or natural resources preferred.
• Proficiency in Python or R and data visualization libraries.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement ML models for resource estimation and process optimization.
• Analyze large datasets from geological surveys and sensors.
• Design A/B tests and run statistical analyses.
• Create dashboards and visualizations for stakeholders.
• Collaborate with geologists, engineers and operations managers.
• Stay current with data science advances in mining

Skills

5+ years data science

Python or R

Data visualization

Communication skills

Collaboration

Education

Master's or PhD in Data Science/Statistics/CS

Tools

SQL

Spark

Hadoop

AWS/Azure/GCP

MLOps

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a highly analytical Remote Mining Data Scientist to drive innovation in their global mining operations. This position is fully remote and focuses on leveraging big data to optimize exploration, extraction, and processing efficiencies. You will work with vast datasets, develop predictive models, and extract actionable insights to guide strategic decisions. The ideal candidate is passionate about applying data science techniques to solve complex problems in the resource sector and excels in a collaborative virtual environment. This is a critical role for advancing the company's data-driven approach to mining, enabling smarter resource management and operational improvements worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement machine learning models for resource estimation, predictive maintenance, and process optimization.
• Analyze large, complex datasets from geological surveys, operational sensors, and processing plants.
• Design and conduct A/Btests and statistical analyses to evaluate process changes.
• Create compelling data visualizations and dashboards to communicate findings to stakeholders.
• Collaborate with geologists, engineers, and operations managers to identify data opportunities.
• Stay current with advancements in data science, AI, and their applications in the mining industry.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field.
• Proven experience (5+ years) in data science, with a significant portion applied to the mining or natural resources sector.
• Strong proficiency in Python or R, and experience with data manipulation and visualization libraries.
• Expertise in SQL and experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop).
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and MLOps practices.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and bonus structure.
• Fully remote working arrangement with flexibility.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and learning new technologies.
• Influence on data strategy and operational improvements across the global mining group.
• A forward-thinking culture that embraces data-driven decision-making.