Senior Data Scientist - Machine Learning

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Medical & retirement benefits

Continuous learning opportunities

Cape Town facility & collaborative env

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Data Scientist to join our client’s team in Cape Town. You will lead development and deployment of advanced ML models, analyze complex datasets, and translate findings into actionable strategies to drive research and innovation.

You will collaborate with researchers and engineers, mentor junior data scientists, and ensure rigorous validation and data quality throughout the analytics lifecycle while staying abreast of cutting‑edge AI and DS techniques.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, or a related quantitative field.
• A minimum of 5 years hands‑on data science experience with a focus on ML model development.
• Proficiency in Python or R and libraries such as scikit‑learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Pandas.
• Strong SQL skills and experience with large databases and data warehousing.
• Experience with data visualization tools (Tableau, Matplotlib, Seaborn).
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving and communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and validate sophisticated ML models for research questions and operational challenges.
• Analyze large datasets to identify trends and inform scientific discovery and strategy.
• Design experiments to test hypotheses and evaluate ML algorithm performance.
• Collaborate with researchers, engineers, and stakeholders to define project requirements and deliver data‑driven solutions.
• Communicate analytical findings clearly to technical and non‑technical audiences via reports and presentations.
• Mentor junior data scientists and help develop best practices in data science and ML.
• Ensure data quality and implement robust validation and testing procedures.
• Stay current with latest ML, AI, and DS methodologies.

Skills

Machine Learning

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Education

Master's or PhD in a quantitative field

Tools

Python

R

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Pandas

SQL

Tableau

Matplotlib

Seaborn

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering entity in scientific research and development, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Data Scientist with expertise in Machine Learning to join their esteemed team in Cape Town . This critical role involves leveraging advanced data analytics and machine learning techniques to uncover insights from complex datasets, driving innovation across various research projects. The ideal candidate will possess a strong quantitative background, a passion for solving challenging problems, and the ability to translate data-driven findings into actionable strategies. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to impactful scientific advancements within a leading organization situated in the scenic backdrop of Cape Town .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and validate sophisticated machine learning models to address key research questions and operational challenges.
• Analyze large and complex datasets to identify trends, patterns, and correlations that inform scientific discovery and strategy.
• Design and execute experiments to test hypotheses and evaluate the performance of machine learning algorithms.
• Collaborate effectively with researchers, engineers, and other stakeholders to define project requirements and deliver data-driven solutions.
• Communicate complex analytical findings and recommendations clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences through reports and presentations.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the development of best practices in data science and machine learning within the organization.
• Ensure data quality and integrity throughout the analysis lifecycle, implementing robust validation and testing procedures.
• Stay current with the latest research and advancements in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data science methodologies.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, or a related quantitative field.
• A minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in data science, with a strong focus on developing and deploying machine learning models.
• Proven expertise in various machine learning techniques, including but not limited to supervised and unsupervised learning, deep learning, and natural language processing.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and experience with relevant libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Pandas).
• Strong SQL skills and experience working with large databases and data warehousing solutions.
• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Matplotlib, Seaborn) to effectively communicate insights.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Benefits

• Our client provides an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive base salary and potential for performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits are offered, ensuring peace of mind and financial security.
• Employees are encouraged to pursue continuous learning through provided resources and opportunities to attend industry conferences.
• The role is based in our state-of-the-art facility in Cape Town , offering a stimulating and collaborative research environment.
• You'll be part of a forward-thinking company dedicated to pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge.