Senior Data Scientist (Full-time)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first culture

Competitive compensation

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Data Scientist to join a fully remote analytics team in the Bank & Finance domain. You will leverage vast datasets, design advanced ML models, and translate complex insights into business impact for strategic decisions.

The role requires 5–7 years of experience, strong skills in Python/R and SQL, and expertise across ML algorithms. You will mentor peers and drive data-driven solutions in a forward-thinking fintech environment.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Data Science, or related quantitative field.
• 5–7 years hands-on experience in data science, ML, and statistical modeling.
• Proficiency in Python or R, with libraries like scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch.
• Strong SQL experience with large databases.
• Expertise in ML algorithms, statistics, and data mining; Banking & Finance domain experience is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement advanced statistical models and ML algorithms.
• Analyze large, complex datasets to identify trends and insights for financial services.
• Develop predictive models for fraud detection, customer segmentation, risk assessment, and credit scoring.
• Collaborate with product managers, engineers, and stakeholders to define data-driven solutions.
• Communicate complex findings to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Develop and maintain data pipelines and ensure data quality.
• Stay current with data science, ML, and AI advancements.
• Mentor junior data scientists and share knowledge.
• Experiment with new data sources and analytical techniques.

Skills

Python

R

SQL

Machine learning

Big data

Education

Master's degree

PhD

Tools

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Spark

Hadoop

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading fintech innovator, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Data Scientist to join their advanced analytics team. This fully remote position offers the exciting opportunity to leverage vast datasets to drive strategic decisions and develop cutting-edge financial products. You will be at the forefront of applying machine learning, statistical modeling, and AI techniques to solve complex problems within the **Banking & Finance** domain. We are looking for a creative problem-solver with a passion for data and a proven ability to translate complex findings into business impact. This role is ideal for an experienced professional seeking to make a significant contribution in a forward-thinking organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement advanced statistical models and machine learning algorithms.
• Analyze large, complex datasets to identify trends, patterns, and insights relevant to financial services.
• Develop predictive models for areas such as fraud detection, customer segmentation, risk assessment, and credit scoring.
• Collaborate with product managers, engineers, and business stakeholders to define data-driven solutions.
• Communicate complex analytical findings and recommendations to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Develop and maintain data pipelines and ensure data quality and integrity.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and AI.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the team's knowledge sharing.
• Experiment with new data sources and analytical techniques.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Data Science, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of hands-on experience in data science, machine learning, and statistical modeling.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and experience with relevant libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Strong experience with SQL and working with large databases.
• Expertise in machine learning algorithms (supervised and unsupervised), statistical analysis, and data mining techniques.
• Experience in the **Banking & Finance** sector is highly desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to a business audience.
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) is a plus.
• Must be eligible to work remotely from **Benoni, Gauteng, ZA**, or other approved locations within South Africa.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package. Enjoy the flexibility of a fully remote work environment. Opportunities for professional growth, cutting-edge training, and attending industry conferences are provided. Be part of an innovative team shaping the future of finance in **Gauteng, ZA**.