Remote Senior AI Data Scientist — Lead ML & Impact

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a highly experienced Senior Data Scientist to lead AI-driven data science initiatives. You will build predictive models, explore large datasets, and drive strategic decisions through advanced AI techniques in a fully remote setting.

The role requires 5+ years in data science with expertise in ML methods, Python or R, SQL, and cloud platforms. You will collaborate with global teams, mentor colleagues, and ensure ethical handling of data while delivering tangible business impact.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Data Science, or related field.
• 5+ years of professional data science experience applying AI/ML techniques.
• Expertise in statistical modeling, ML algorithms (regression, classification, clustering, deep learning) and predictive analytics.
• Proficiency in Python or R with libraries like Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch.
• Strong SQL skills and experience with large databases and data warehousing.
• Experience with big data tech (Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Excellent data visualization and communication skills; ability to present to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects remotely.
• Knowledge of MLOps is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and deployment of ML/AI models to solve business problems.
• Conduct advanced statistical analysis and predictive modeling on large datasets.
• Prepare data for modeling and ensure data quality and integrity.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to translate business needs into data science solutions.
• Evaluate algorithms and methodologies for analytical tasks.
• Develop and maintain data pipelines and model training workflows.
• Communicate findings and model performance via visualizations and reports.
• Mentor junior data scientists and promote data science culture.
• Stay updated with AI/ML advances and best practices.
• Ensure data privacy and ethics in analyses.

Skills

Python

R

SQL

ML/DL

Pandas

Cloud

Education

Master's degree in a quantitative field

PhD in Data Science or related

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Scikit-learn

Spark

Airflow

Job description

Placements24 seeks a highly experienced Senior Data Scientist to lead AI-driven data science initiatives. You will build predictive models, explore large datasets, and drive strategic decisions through advanced AI techniques in a fully remote setting.

The role requires 5+ years in data science with expertise in ML methods, Python or R, SQL, and cloud platforms. You will collaborate with global teams, mentor colleagues, and ensure ethical handling of data while delivering tangible business impact.