Remote - Senior Data Scientist - Mineralogy Analytics

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,976,000 - 2,964,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote role

Competitive salary plus bonus

Health insurance

Retirement savings options

Life insurance

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Data Scientist for a fully remote role focused on mineralogical data analytics and mining technology. You will build predictive models, manage large datasets from XRF/XRD/SEM, and collaborate with geologists and engineers to derive actionable insights.

The role emphasizes remote collaboration, strong statistical and ML skills, and the ability to translate complex results into business recommendations. Remote-first with global team access.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in a quantitative field with 7+ years in data science.
• Proficiency in Python or R and libraries (scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Pandas, NumPy).
• Experience with SQL and NoSQL databases and cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP).
• Strong communication, problem solving, and stakeholder storytelling.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement advanced statistical and ML models for mineralogical data analysis.
• Process large datasets from XRF, XRD, SEM, and hyperspectral imaging.
• Develop predictive models for ore grade estimation and process control.
• Collaborate with geologists, metallurgists, and engineers to deliver insights.
• Build data pipelines, dashboards, and reports to communicate findings.
• Mentor junior data scientists and stay current with mining analytics.

Skills

Python

R

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Pandas

NumPy

SQL

NoSQL

Cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP)

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Data Science/Statistics/CS/Geoscience/Metallurgy

Tools

AWS

Azure

GCP

Job description

About the Role Our client, a global leader in mining technology and analytics, is seeking a talented and experienced Senior Data Scientist to join their innovative team on a fully remote basis. This role will focus on leveraging advanced data science techniques to analyze complex mineralogical datasets, driving insights that optimize ore processing, mineral identification, and resource characterization. You will work with large-scale datasets derived from various analytical instruments and geological surveys, developing predictive models and algorithms to enhance operational efficiency and discovery success. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in statistical modeling, machine learning, and data visualization, combined with a keen interest or experience in mineralogy and extractive metallurgy. This is a remote-first position, offering flexibility and the opportunity to collaborate with a globally distributed team from anywhere. We are looking for a self-motivated individual with excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to translate complex technical findings into actionable business recommendations. Your work will directly contribute to cutting-edge advancements in mining analytics and mineralogical understanding.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement advanced statistical and machine learning models for mineralogical data analysis.
• Process and analyze large, complex datasets from sources such as XRF, XRD, SEM, and hyperspectral imaging.
• Develop predictive models for ore grade estimation, mineral recovery optimization, and process control.
• Collaborate with geologists, metallurgists, and process engineers to understand data needs and deliver actionable insights.
• Build and maintain robust data pipelines and analytical workflows.
• Visualize and communicate complex data findings through reports, dashboards, and presentations.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and their applications in the mining industry.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the team's technical growth.
• Identify opportunities for leveraging data to solve critical business challenges in mineralogy and processing.
• Ensure data quality, integrity, and security in all analytical activities.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Geoscience, Metallurgy, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience as a Data Scientist, with a proven track record in developing and deploying machine learning models.
• Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and associated data science libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Pandas, NumPy).
• Experience with SQL and NoSQL databases.
• Demonstrated experience working with large, complex datasets.
• Knowledge of or strong interest in mineralogy, geology, or extractive metallurgy is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote team environment.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and big data technologies is a plus.

Benefits

• As a fully remote role, our client offers exceptional flexibility and work-life balance.
• We provide a highly competitive salary and bonus structure, along with comprehensive health insurance coverage, retirement savings options, and life insurance.
• Opportunities for continuous learning, attending industry conferences, and professional development are strongly supported.
• This is a chance to join a forward-thinking company at the forefront of mining analytics and contribute to global mining innovation from the convenience of your home office.