Remote Principal Data Scientist (AI/ML)

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first culture

Competitive salary + bonus

Health & retirement benefits

Professional development opportunities

Home office stipend

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Data Scientist for a fully remote research team. You will shape the strategic direction of AI/ML initiatives, design and deploy advanced models across domains, and collaborate with a distributed group of researchers.

The role requires 10+ years in data science, expertise in Python/R and major ML libraries, and a strong track record of production ML systems. Remote work across South Africa is supported with flexible arrangements.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, or related quantitative field.
• 10+ years of experience in data science focusing on AI/ML.
• Proven track record of developing and deploying sophisticated ML models in production.
• Expert proficiency in Python and R, and ML libraries such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn.
• Deep understanding of ML algorithms and statistical modeling.
• Experience with big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
• Experience leading projects and mentoring in a remote setting.
• Experience in scientific research or R&D environments is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and deployment of advanced AI/ML models.
• Identify novel data sources and analytical methodologies to solve complex problems.
• Develop and deploy scalable ML pipelines for predictive modeling, pattern recognition, and NLP.
• Collaborate with domain experts to define project requirements and align with goals.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to building a data science culture.
• Stay at the forefront of AI/ML research and integrate new techniques.
• Communicate findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Contribute to overall data strategy and roadmap of the company.
• Drive innovation and best practices in data science and MLOps.

Skills

Python

R

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

Big data

Cloud platforms

Education

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

Tools

Spark

Hadoop

AWS

Azure

GCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in AI-driven scientific innovation, is actively seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal Data Scientist to join their fully remote research team. This role is pivotal in driving the strategic direction of our client's advanced AI and Machine Learning initiatives. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, developing, and deploying sophisticated machine learning models that solve complex scientific challenges across various domains. This position requires a deep understanding of cutting-edge AI/ML techniques, exceptional analytical skills, and the ability to translate intricate business needs into actionable data science solutions. As a remote-first organization, we are committed to providing our team members with the tools, support, and flexibility they need to excel. You will work collaboratively with a distributed team of world-class researchers and engineers, contributing to projects that have a profound impact on scientific discovery and technological advancement. The opportunity to work from anywhere in **South Africa** offers unparalleled work-life integration.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced AI and Machine Learning models.


• Identify and explore novel data sources and analytical methodologies to solve complex scientific and business problems.


• Develop and deploy scalable ML pipelines for various applications, including predictive modeling, pattern recognition, and natural language processing.


• Collaborate with domain experts to define project requirements and ensure alignment with strategic goals.


• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to building a strong data science culture within the organization.


• Stay at the forefront of AI/ML research, evaluating and integrating new techniques and technologies.


• Communicate complex findings and recommendations clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholders.


• Contribute to the overall data strategy and roadmap of the company.


• Drive innovation and champion best practices in data science and MLOps.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, or a related quantitative field.


• 10+ years of experience in data science, with a significant focus on AI and Machine Learning.


• Proven track record of developing and deploying sophisticated ML models in production environments.


• Expert proficiency in programming languages like Python and R, and ML libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).


• Deep understanding of various ML algorithms (deep learning, reinforcement learning, ensemble methods, etc.) and statistical modeling.


• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).


• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.


• Strong communication and presentation skills, capable of conveying complex ideas effectively.


• Demonstrated ability to lead projects and mentor team members in a remote setting.


• Experience in scientific research or R&D environments is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and bonus structure, reflecting the seniority and impact of this role.


• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance are provided.


• A generous retirement savings plan with employer contributions is part of the package.


• We foster a culture of continuous learning, offering extensive professional development opportunities, including access to online courses, conferences, and certifications.


• This is a fully remote position, providing ultimate flexibility and work-life balance.


• Enjoy a significant allowance for home office setup and a flexible work schedule.


• Generous paid time off is provided.


• Join a globally distributed, innovative team and shape the future of AI in scientific research.


• This role offers the chance to work on challenging, impactful projects from the comfort of your own home.