Senior Data Scientist (Advanced Coding Focus)

ATS Client; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1,400,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Job summary

Absa Bank Limited is seeking a highly experienced Data Scientist to join our analytics team. You will turn complex data into actionable insights, design scalable ML solutions, and implement production-grade code for data pipelines and models.

The ideal candidate holds a 7+ year track record in data science, with strong Python/R skills and expertise in ML frameworks, SQL, and big data platforms. This role demands collaboration across functions and a commitment to robust, maintainable software.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, or related field.
• 7+ years experience in a Data Scientist or similar role.
• Strong programming skills in Python, R, or similar languages.
• Proven experience with machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn).
• Experience with SQL and large-scale data platforms (e.g., Hadoop, Spark).
• Ability to write efficient, scalable, and maintainable code.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy advanced machine learning models and statistical solutions
• Write clean, efficient, and production-ready code for data pipelines and models
• Work with large, complex datasets to extract insights and support decision-making
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate business needs into technical solutions
• Optimize algorithms and improve model performance and scalability
• Build and maintain data infrastructure and automation processes

Skills

Python

R

SQL

Machine Learning

Data Analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mathematics or related

Master's degree in Data Science

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Scikit-learn

Hadoop

Spark

Job description

Empowering Africa's tomorrow, together...one story at a time. With over 100 years of rich history and strongly positioned as a local bank with regional and international expertise, a career with our family offers the opportunity to be part of this exciting growth journey, to reset our future and shape our destiny as a proudly African group.

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative Data Scientist with a strong coding background to join our dynamic team. This role is ideal for a problem‑solver who thrives on turning complex data into actionable insights and building scalable data‑driven solutions. Bachelor's or Master's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, or related field. 7+ years' experience in a Data Scientist or similar role. Strong programming skills in Python, R, or similar languages. Proven experience with machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn). Solid understanding of data structures, algorithms, and software engineering principles. Experience working with SQL and large‑scale data platforms (e.g., Hadoop, Spark). Ability to write efficient, scalable, and maintainable code.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy advanced machine learning models and statistical solutions
• Write clean, efficient, and production‑ready code for data pipelines and models
• Work with large, complex datasets to extract insights and support decision‑making
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to translate business needs into technical solutions
• Optimize algorithms and improve model performance and scalability
• Build and maintain data infrastructure and automation processes

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
• High attention to detail and data accuracy
• Ability to communicate complex concepts clearly
• Self‑driven with a passion for continuous learning

Advantageous

• Experience in cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)
• Exposure to MLOps and model deployment pipelines

Education

Bachelor's Degree: Mathematics, Master's Degree: Data Science (Required)

Absa Bank Limited is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. In compliance with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups whose appointments will contribute towards achievement of equitable demographic representation of our workforce profile and add to the diversity of the Bank. Absa Bank Limited reserves the right not to make an appointment to the post as advertised.