Remote Principal Data Scientist - Mining Analytics

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 2,986,000 - 4,312,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Health benefits

Remote work

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Principal Data Scientist for a fully remote role in the mining technology sector. You will drive advanced analytics, develop predictive models, and lead data science initiatives across global operations.

You will mentor junior scientists, shape data strategy, and collaborate with geologists, engineers, and operators to extract actionable insights. A PhD/MSc with 10+ years of experience is expected.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in a quantitative field required.
• 10+ years in data science with advanced analytics.
• Industrial/data mining relevance preferred.
• Proficiency with Python or R and ML libraries.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement advanced ML models for mining applications.
• Build robust data pipelines and analytics workflows.
• Collaborate with geologists and engineers to define data-driven opportunities.
• Mentor junior data scientists and lead projects end-to-end.
• Communicate findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Skills

Communication

Presentation

Leadership

Mentorship

Team collaboration

Education

PhD or MSc in Data Science/CS/Statistics/Math

Tools

Python

R

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

Spark

Hadoop

AWS

Azure

GCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a pioneering force in the mining technology sector, and they are seeking a highly accomplished Principal Data Scientist to join their fully remote team. This role is pivotal in driving advanced data analytics and machine learning initiatives across their global mining operations. As a Principal Data Scientist, you will be instrumental in developing cutting-edge solutions that optimize exploration, production, safety, and sustainability. You will leverage vast datasets from geological surveys, operational sensors, and historical records to extract actionable insights and build predictive models. This is a fully remote position, offering unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to work with a world-class team from anywhere. We are looking for an individual with exceptional analytical skills, deep expertise in data science methodologies, and a passion for solving complex problems in the mining industry. Your contributions will directly influence strategic decision-making and technological innovation within the company. You will mentor junior scientists and lead complex projects, setting the technical direction for data science initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement advanced statistical models and machine learning algorithms for mining applications (e.g., predictive maintenance, resource estimation, operational efficiency).
• Extract, clean, and transform large, complex datasets from various mining sources.
• Collaborate with domain experts (geologists, engineers, metallurgists) to define problem statements and identify data-driven opportunities.
• Develop and deploy robust data pipelines and analytical workflows.
• Evaluate and benchmark model performance, ensuring scalability and accuracy.
• Communicate complex findings and recommendations clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders through reports and presentations.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the growth of the data science team.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and AI, and explore their applicability to the mining sector.
• Lead end-to-end data science projects from conception to deployment.
• Contribute to the development of the company's data strategy and best practices.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. or Master's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
• A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in data science, with a significant focus on advanced analytics and machine learning.
• Proven experience in applying data science techniques to complex industrial problems, preferably within the mining or natural resources sector.
• Expert proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and relevant libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).
• Strong experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and SQL.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and MLOps principles.
• Excellent understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms, and data mining techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex projects and mentor team members.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• This is a fully remote position; candidates must be self-motivated and able to work independently.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and generous stock options. This is a fully remote role, providing ultimate flexibility in work location. Opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and participation in industry-leading conferences are provided. The company fosters an innovative, collaborative, and forward-thinking culture. Employees benefit from a flexible work schedule and the chance to work on groundbreaking projects that are transforming the mining industry.