Senior Data Scientist

iDbase Software; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 80 000 - 100 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading analytics firm is seeking a Senior Data Scientist to join their advanced analytics team in Johannesburg. This role involves analyzing complex datasets, developing predictive models, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate will have 6+ years of experience in data science, strong programming skills in Python or R, and a solid understanding of statistical analysis and machine learning. The position offers flexibility for remote work and a contract duration of 12 months.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience as a Data Scientist or similar role.
• Strong proficiency in Python, R, or similar programming languages.
• Hands-on experience with deploying models in cloud platforms.

Responsibilities

• Analyze complex datasets and develop predictive models.
• Collaborate with Data Engineers on data pipeline construction.
• Mentor junior data scientists and promote best practices.

Skills

Data Analysis & Modeling

Machine Learning

Data Visualization

Python/R programming

SQL

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Data Science or related field

Tools

Power BI

Tableau

AWS

Azure

Job description

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Data Scientist to join our advanced analytics team. You will be responsible for analyzing complex datasets, developing predictive models, and delivering actionable insights that support strategic business decisions. This role is ideal for professionals who thrive in data-driven environments, have a strong foundation in statistical analysis and machine learning, and enjoy collaborating with cross-functional teams to solve challenging business problems.

Key Responsibilities

1. Data Analysis & Modeling
   • Analyze large and complex datasets to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities
   • Develop, validate, and deploy predictive and prescriptive models using AI/ML techniques
   • Apply advanced statistical, machine learning, and optimization methods to solve business problems
   • Design and implement experiments to support hypothesis testing and performance measurement
   • Communicate findings and recommendations clearly to both technical and business stakeholders
2. Data Engineering & Infrastructure
   • Collaborate with Data Engineers to design, build, and maintain reliable data pipelines and infrastructure
   • Work with SQL and NoSQL databases, data lakes, and cloud-based storage solutions
   • Implement reproducible and automated workflows for data preparation, feature engineering, and model deployment
   • Ensure data quality, security, and compliance in all analytical processes
3. Collaboration & Knowledge Sharing
   • Work in an Agile/Scrum environment, participating in sprint planning, stand-ups, and retrospectives
   • Collaborate closely with analysts, engineers, product managers, and business leaders to translate requirements into analytical solutions
   • Mentor junior data scientists, promoting best practices in data science and AI/ML
   • Research, evaluate, and recommend emerging tools, frameworks, and techniques to enhance analytical capabilities

Requirements & Qualifications

Must-Have Skills

• 6+ years of professional experience as a Data Scientist, Analytics Engineer, or related role
• Strong proficiency in Python, R, or similar programming languages for data analysis
• Expertise in statistical analysis, predictive modeling, and machine learning
• Experience with SQL and relational databases; familiarity with NoSQL databases a plus
• Hands‑on experience with data visualization tools such as Power BI, Tableau, or similar
• Strong problem‑solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills
• Experience deploying models and solutions in cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP)

Beneficial Skills

• Experience with AI/ML frameworks and libraries: TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit‑learn, Keras
• Knowledge of natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, or reinforcement learning
• Experience with big data processing frameworks: Spark, Hadoop, or Databricks
• Familiarity with containerization (Docker) and orchestration (Kubernetes) for data science workflows
• Understanding of MLOps practices and CI/CD pipelines for models
• Exposure to advanced optimization techniques and decision science
• Knowledge of data governance, security, and compliance standards

Education

• Bachelor’s degree, higher certificate, or diploma in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related field

Additional Information

• Contract Duration: 12 Months (with possibility of renewal)
• Salary: Market Related
• Location Options: Johannesburg / Cape Town / Remote

Must be located in South Africa or have a valid work permit for South Africa