Senior Data Scientist - Energy Analytics & Forecasting

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 1,969,000 - 2,953,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 invites a Senior Data Scientist to join a remote-first team shaping the future of energy analytics. Lead advanced ML models for forecasting, demand, and grid insights while handling large, diverse energy datasets.

You will mentor juniors, establish best practices, and communicate complex results to stakeholders. Strong background in ML, statistics, Python/R, and cloud platforms is required, with energy experience preferred.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's in Data Science, Statistics, CS, Physics, Engineering, or related quantitative field.
• 5+ years of professional data science experience, preferably in energy.
• Proven expertise in ML model development and deployment (regression, classification, time series, DL).
• Proficient in Python or R and data science libraries (scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Pandas).
• Strong SQL and database management experience.
• Familiarity with big data (Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP) is a plus.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Experience with energy market data, grid operations, or renewable forecasting is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement machine learning models for energy forecasting and anomaly detection.
• Analyze large energy datasets covering generation, consumption, prices, and grid performance.
• Design experiments to validate model performance and hypotheses.
• Build data pipelines and ETL processes for modeling readiness.
• Collaborate with energy engineers, analysts, and stakeholders to deliver insights.
• Visualize data and model outputs for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay current with advances in data science as applied to energy analytics.
• Mentor junior data scientists and promote best practices.

Skills

Python

SQL

Data analysis

Communication

Remote collaboration

Education

Master's or PhD in Data Science or related field

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

Pandas

Spark

Hadoop

AWS/Azure/GCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in the energy sector, is seeking an exceptional Senior Data Scientist to join their innovative, fully remote team. This role is crucial for developing advanced analytical models and predictive insights to optimize energy production, distribution, and consumption. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of machine learning, statistical modeling, and data manipulation, coupled with a passion for solving complex challenges within the energy landscape. This is a remote-first position for a highly analytical mind.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement sophisticated machine learning models for energy forecasting, demand prediction, and anomaly detection.
• Analyze large, complex datasets related to energy generation, consumption, market prices, and grid performance.
• Design and conduct experiments to test hypotheses and validate model performance.
• Build data pipelines and ETL processes to ensure data quality and availability for modeling.
• Collaborate closely with energy engineers, market analysts, and business stakeholders to understand needs and deliver actionable insights.
• Visualize complex data and model outputs for clear communication to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, particularly as applied to the energy sector.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to establishing best practices in data science methodology.
• Evaluate and recommend new tools and technologies to enhance analytical capabilities.
• Ensure ethical data handling and model development practices.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Physics, Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in data science or a related analytical role, with a significant focus on the energy sector.
• Proven expertise in developing and deploying machine learning models (e.g., regression, classification, time series forecasting, deep learning).
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and associated data science libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Pandas).
• Strong experience with SQL and database management.
• Familiarity with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly.
• Experience with energy market data, grid operations, or renewable energy forecasting is highly desirable.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fully remote team environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive remote salary, excellent health and retirement benefits, and a stimulating work environment that fosters innovation and continuous learning. This role provides unique opportunities for professional development, engagement with cutting-edge energy analytics, and the chance to make a significant impact on the future of the global energy industry. The package includes generous paid time off and a budget for professional development activities.