Senior Data Scientist - Advanced Analytics

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Professional development

Performance bonus

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking a Senior Data Scientist to join their analytics division. This on-site role focuses on leveraging complex datasets to derive actionable insights, build predictive models, and drive strategic decisions across the organization.

The successful candidate will lead advanced modeling, maintain data pipelines, and collaborate with engineering and business teams to ensure data quality. Strong communication and energy-sector experience are advantageous.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in a quantitative field.
• Minimum 5 years in data science or related analytic role.
• Proven expertise in statistical modeling and ML algorithms.
• Proficiency in Python or R and data libraries (Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn).
• Strong SQL and database knowledge.
• Experience with big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop) is a plus.
• Excellent data visualization skills with tools like Tableau or Power BI.
• Able to translate business problems into data science solutions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in the energy sector is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced statistical models and machine learning algorithms to address business challenges.
• Analyze large, complex datasets from various sources to identify trends, patterns, and actionable insights.
• Design, build, and maintain robust data pipelines and analytical frameworks.
• Collaborate with engineering and business teams to define data requirements and ensure data quality.
• Develop predictive models for forecasting, anomaly detection, and optimization.
• Communicate complex findings and recommendations clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Stay current with the latest research and advancements in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.
• Design and conduct A/B tests and other experiments to validate hypotheses and measure impact.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the growth of the data science practice within the company.

Skills

Statistical modeling

Machine learning

Python or R

Data mining

Education

Master's or PhD in a quantitative field

Tools

Pandas

NumPy

Scikit-learn

SQL

Spark

Hadoop

Tableau

Power BI

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in the renewable energy sector, is looking for a Senior Data Scientist to join their analytics division in Durban . This is an on-site role, fostering deep collaboration and innovation within a dedicated team environment. You will be at the forefront of leveraging complex datasets to derive actionable insights, build predictive models, and drive strategic decision-making across the organization. We are seeking an individual with a strong academic background, extensive practical experience in data science, and a keen interest in applying advanced analytical techniques to solve challenging business problems. The successful candidate will contribute significantly to optimizing operations, improving efficiency, and identifying new opportunities for growth within the sustainable energy market.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced statistical models and machine learning algorithms to address business challenges.
• Analyze large, complex datasets from various sources to identify trends, patterns, and actionable insights.
• Design, build, and maintain robust data pipelines and analytical frameworks.
• Collaborate with engineering and business teams to define data requirements and ensure data quality.
• Develop predictive models for forecasting, anomaly detection, and optimization.
• Communicate complex findings and recommendations clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Stay current with the latest research and advancements in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.
• Design and conduct A/B tests and other experiments to validate hypotheses and measure impact.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the growth of the data science practice within the company.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in data science or a related analytical role.
• Proven expertise in statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms (e.g., regression, classification, clustering, deep learning), and data mining techniques.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and experience with data manipulation and analysis libraries (e.g., Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn).
• Strong experience with SQL and database technologies.
• Familiarity with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) is a plus.
• Excellent data visualization skills using tools like Matplotlib, Seaborn, Tableau, or Power BI.
• Demonstrated ability to translate business problems into data science solutions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present technical information effectively.
• Experience in the energy sector is advantageous.

Benefits

This role offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and a generous pension fund. Employees based in Durban will work in a modern, well-equipped office environment. Our client provides ample opportunities for professional development, including access to conferences, workshops, and advanced training programs. You will be part of a mission-driven organization contributing to a sustainable future. Additional benefits include a performance bonus and a supportive team culture focused on innovation and collaboration.