Remote Principal Data Scientist: Mining AI Leader

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 2,992,000 - 4,654,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first environment

Stock options or equity grants

Professional development budget

Home office stipend

Laptop and software licenses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Data Scientist for a fully remote role in the mining technology space. You will lead advanced analytics, mentor a team of data scientists, and shape data-driven strategy across exploration, operations, and market intelligence.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or master's, 10+ years of data science experience in industrial settings, strong ML and big data skills, cloud experience, and excellent communication to executives.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, or a related quantitative field.
• 10+ years of experience in data science, with a significant portion focused on applying advanced analytical techniques in industrial or resource-based sectors.
• Proven experience in developing and deploying machine learning models in a production environment.
• Proficiency in Python or R and libraries like scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Pandas, NumPy.
• Strong experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and SQL/NoSQL databases.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) for data science workloads.
• Excellent understanding of statistical modeling, experimental design, and data mining techniques.
• Prior exposure to the mining industry is highly advantageous.
• Exceptional problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to lead projects and mentor teams in a remote setting.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of advanced analytical models using ML, AI, and statistics for the mining sector.
• Analyze large, complex datasets related to geological surveys, operations, market trends, and safety metrics.
• Design and execute experiments to validate model performance and business impact.
• Develop predictive models for resource estimation, production forecasting, equipment failure, and market risk.
• Collaborate with teams to integrate data science solutions into workflows and systems.
• Mentor junior data scientists and promote continuous learning and innovation.
• Communicate findings clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholders, including executives.
• Identify new opportunities to leverage data analytics for business value and operations.
• Stay updated on advancements in data science relevant to mining, contributing to governance and best practices.

Skills

Python

R

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Pandas

NumPy

Education

PhD in Computer Science / related quantitative field

Master's degree in a quantitative field

Tools

Spark

Hadoop

SQL/NoSQL

AWS / Azure / GCP

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Data Scientist for a fully remote role in the mining technology space. You will lead advanced analytics, mentor a team of data scientists, and shape data-driven strategy across exploration, operations, and market intelligence.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or master's, 10+ years of data science experience in industrial settings, strong ML and big data skills, cloud experience, and excellent communication to executives.