Remote Principal Data Scientist - Mining Analytics

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

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in the mining technology space, is seeking an exceptional Principal Data Scientist to lead 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, operations, and market intelligence to drive data-driven decision-making across the organization. The role involves developing sophisticated predictive models, optimizing resource allocation, and uncovering hidden patterns to enhance efficiency and profitability. We are looking for a thought leader with a deep understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning, and big data technologies, combined with domain knowledge in the mining industry. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of data science within a rapidly evolving sector. As the Principal Data Scientist, you will mentor a team of data scientists, collaborate with cross-functional teams including geologists, engineers, and business analysts, and communicate complex findings to executive leadership. Your insights will directly influence strategic decisions regarding exploration, extraction, and market positioning. The ideal candidate possesses a strong research background, a passion for innovation, and the ability to translate complex analytical results into clear, actionable business recommendations. This remote role requires exceptional self-discipline, strong communication skills, and the ability to foster collaboration across distributed teams. You will be at the forefront of applying cutting-edge AI and ML techniques to solve some of the most challenging problems in the mining world.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of advanced analytical models using machine learning, AI, and statistical techniques for the mining sector.
• Analyze large, complex datasets related to geological surveys, operational efficiency, equipment maintenance, market trends, and safety metrics.
• Design and execute A/B tests and other experiments to validate model performance and business impact.
• Develop predictive models for resource estimation, production forecasting, equipment failure prediction, and market risk assessment.
• Collaborate with engineering and operational teams to integrate data science solutions into existing workflows and systems.
• Mentor and guide junior data scientists, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.
• Communicate complex analytical findings and recommendations clearly and concisely to technical and non-technical stakeholders, including executive leadership.
• Identify new opportunities for leveraging data analytics to drive business value and operational improvements.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence relevant to the mining industry.
• Contribute to the development of data governance policies and best practices.
• Build and maintain robust data pipelines and infrastructure for analytical workloads.

Requirements

• 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.
• Expertise in programming languages such as 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.
• Demonstrated experience in 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, understanding its data types and challenges, is highly advantageous.
• Exceptional problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence decision-making.
• Proven ability to lead projects and mentor teams in a remote setting.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and bonus structure, reflecting the senior level of the role.
• Comprehensive global health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous stock options or equity grants.
• Significant professional development budget for conferences, courses, and certifications.
• Flexible working hours and a remote-first work environment.
• Annual home office stipend to ensure a productive workspace.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects that are transforming the mining industry.
• Direct impact on strategic business decisions and company growth.
• Collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment with leading experts.
• Company-provided laptop and necessary software licenses.