Senior Data Scientist - AI Specialization

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement plan

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Continuous learning

Job summary

Placements24 in Randburg, Gauteng, seeks a Senior Data Scientist specializing in AI to lead advanced analytics initiatives. This role combines hands-on model development with strategic collaboration across teams in a hybrid office/remote setup.

You will build predictive models, manage data pipelines, and mentor junior scientists while staying current with the latest AI trends. The position offers growth opportunities in a dynamic, innovation-driven environment.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in statistics, CS, mathematics, or related quantitative field.
• Proven data scientist experience with a focus on AI and ML.
• Proficiency in Python or R and libraries like scikit-learn, TensorFlow, and PyTorch.
• Strong knowledge of statistical modeling, ML algorithms, and data mining techniques.
• Experience with Spark, Hadoop, and SQL.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and deploy machine learning models for business applications.
• Analyze large datasets to identify trends and insights.
• Design data mining and statistical analysis methodologies.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to formulate data-driven solutions.
• Build and maintain data pipelines for model training and evaluation.
• Communicate findings clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to team growth.
• Stay updated on advances in data science and AI.
• Evaluate new tools and technologies to enhance capabilities.
• Ensure data quality, accuracy, and integrity for analysis.

Skills

Data Science

Python

Machine Learning

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Education

Master's or PhD in Statistics/CS/Mathematics

Tools

Spark

Hadoop

SQL

scikit-learn

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the AI & Emerging Technologies sector, is looking for a highly skilled Senior Data Scientist with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence to join their team in Randburg, Gauteng . This role involves leveraging advanced statistical and machine learning techniques to extract insights from complex datasets and develop predictive models. You will play a pivotal role in driving data-driven decision-making and innovation across the organization. The position offers a hybrid work arrangement, combining collaborative sessions at our Randburg office with the flexibility of remote work. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced data scientist to contribute to cutting-edge AI initiatives in Gauteng.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and deploy machine learning models for various business applications.
• Analyze large and complex datasets to identify trends, patterns, and actionable insights.
• Design and implement data mining and statistical analysis methodologies.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to understand business challenges and formulate data-driven solutions.
• Build and maintain data pipelines for model training and evaluation.
• Communicate complex findings and recommendations clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the team's technical growth.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and AI.
• Evaluate and recommend new tools and technologies to enhance data science capabilities.
• Ensure the quality, accuracy, and integrity of data used for analysis and modeling.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Statistics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
• Proven experience as a Data Scientist, with a strong focus on AI and machine learning applications.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and relevant libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Strong understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms, and data mining techniques.
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and SQL.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Experience working with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid team environment.
• Experience in developing and deploying predictive models in production is highly valued.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package and a comprehensive benefits plan, including medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and generous opportunities for professional development and continuous learning. The hybrid work model provides a flexible work-life balance, combining collaborative in-office work in Randburg with remote flexibility. Employees will have the opportunity to work on challenging and impactful AI projects, contribute to innovation, and grow their careers within a supportive and dynamic organization in Gauteng.