Remote Senior Data Scientist - AI Focus

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

About the Role

Our client is a global leader in data-driven innovation and is seeking a highly experienced Remote Senior Data Scientist with a strong focus on Artificial Intelligence to join their elite team. This role is instrumental in leveraging vast datasets to build predictive models, uncover actionable insights, and drive strategic decision-making through advanced AI techniques. You will be responsible for the end-to-end data science project lifecycle, from problem definition and data exploration to model development, validation, and deployment. This fully remote position offers unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse, international team of experts.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of sophisticated machine learning and AI models to solve complex business problems.
• Perform advanced statistical analysis, data mining, and predictive modeling using large, complex datasets.
• Clean, transform, and prepare data for modeling, ensuring data quality and integrity.
• Collaborate closely with stakeholders across various departments to understand business needs and translate them into data science solutions.
• Evaluate and select appropriate algorithms and methodologies for specific analytical tasks.
• Develop and maintain robust data pipelines and workflows for model training and deployment.
• Effectively communicate complex findings, insights, and model performance to both technical and non-technical audiences through visualizations and reports.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to building a strong data science culture.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and AI research.
• Ensure ethical considerations and data privacy are integrated into all analytical processes.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related quantitative field.
• 5+ years of professional experience in data science, with a significant emphasis on applying AI/ML techniques.
• Expertise in statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms (e.g., regression, classification, clustering, deep learning), and predictive analytics.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and experience with relevant libraries (e.g., Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Strong SQL skills and experience working with large databases and data warehousing solutions.
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Excellent data visualization and communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously in a remote environment.
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
• Experience with MLOps principles and tools is a plus.

Benefits

This remote position offers a highly competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, retirement savings plan, flexible working hours, and opportunities for continuous learning and professional development. Join our client and make a significant impact on data-driven AI solutions from Sandton, Gauteng, ZA.