Senior Data Scientist (AI/ML)

Placements24; Sandton; Sur place; ZAR 1 000 000 - 1 800 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Comprehensive medical aid

Top-tier retirement fund

Performance-based bonuses

Résumé du poste

Placements24 in Sandton seeks a Senior Data Scientist to drive AI/ML initiatives and deliver strategic insights. You will build predictive models, analyze large datasets, and deploy solutions that improve customer experience and optimize processes.

The role emphasizes cross-functional collaboration and leadership of data science projects. The ideal candidate has 5+ years in data science, advanced degree, and strong Python/R skills, with experience in financial services preferred.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Data Scientist with focus on AI/ML.
• Proven expertise in ML algorithms: regression, classification, clustering, deep learning.
• Proficiency in Python and/or R with relevant libraries; strong SQL skills.
• Experience with big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop) is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.
• Experience in financial services is highly desirable.
• Ability to collaborate in a Sandton-based team.

Responsabilités

• Design, develop, and implement advanced ML models and AI solutions for business problems.
• Analyze and interpret complex datasets to identify trends and opportunities.
• Clean, transform, and preprocess large structured and unstructured data for training.
• Evaluate model performance, test rigorously, and iterate to improve accuracy.
• Deploy ML models into production environments with scalability and reliability.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to translate needs into data science projects.
• Present findings clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay updated on AI/ML advances and apply to business challenges.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to team growth.
• Ensure all data activities comply with privacy regulations and ethics.

Connaissances

AI/ML expertise

Data analysis

Communication skills

Problem solving

Formation

Master's degree or PhD in CS/Statistics/Math or related field

Outils

Python (scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch)

SQL

Spark/Hadoop

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a leading financial services institution in Sandton, Gauteng , is seeking a highly skilled Senior Data Scientist with expertise in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to drive innovation and provide strategic insights. This role is integral to developing and deploying advanced predictive models and AI-driven solutions that enhance customer experience, optimize business processes, and mitigate risk. You will work with vast datasets, cutting-edge algorithms, and cross-functional teams to transform data into actionable intelligence. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning techniques, and proficiency in programming languages like Python or R. This is a fantastic opportunity to lead impactful data science initiatives in a dynamic and competitive market within Sandton .

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement advanced machine learning models and AI solutions for a variety of business problems, including prediction, classification, and anomaly detection.
• Analyze and interpret complex datasets to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for business improvement.
• Clean, transform, and preprocess large volumes of structured and unstructured data for model training.
• Evaluate model performance, conduct rigorous testing, and iterate on models to improve accuracy and robustness.
• Deploy machine learning models into production environments, ensuring scalability and reliability.
• Collaborate closely with business stakeholders to understand their needs and translate them into data science projects.
• Present findings and insights clearly and concisely to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI, machine learning, and data science, and explore their applicability to business challenges.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the growth of the data science team.
• Ensure all data-related activities comply with privacy regulations and ethical guidelines.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Data Scientist, with a strong focus on AI and Machine Learning applications.
• Proven expertise in developing and deploying various machine learning algorithms (e.g., regression, classification, clustering, deep learning).
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python (with libraries like scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch) and/or R.
• Strong SQL skills for data extraction and manipulation.
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Experience in the financial services industry is highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment in Sandton .

Benefits

Our client offers an exceptional salary package, along with comprehensive medical aid, a top-tier retirement fund, and significant performance-based bonuses. Opportunities for professional growth, attendance at industry conferences, and advanced training are actively encouraged. You will work with state-of-the-art technology and contribute to groundbreaking AI initiatives. We provide a stimulating and collaborative work environment. Join a leading financial institution in Gauteng and make a significant impact.