Senior Data Scientist - Machine Learning Specialist

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Stock options

Health insurance

Professional development

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Data Scientist with a focus on Machine Learning to design, develop, and deploy advanced ML models. This fully remote role supports a globally distributed team and emphasizes the ML lifecycle from data prep to production.

You will tackle predictive modeling, anomaly detection, NLP, and computer vision, collaborating with engineers and PMs while mentoring junior data scientists. Strong cloud and analytical skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in a quantitative field such as CS, Stats, Math, or Data Science.
• 5+ years of professional data science experience with a strong ML focus.
• Proficiency in Python or R with ML libraries (scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Experience with cloud ML services on AWS/Azure/GCP.
• Strong SQL and data modeling skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deploy sophisticated machine learning models and statistical methods.
• Design AB tests and experiments to validate model impact.
• Prepare and transform large-scale datasets for modeling.
• Collaborate with engineers and product managers to productionize models.
• Communicate complex findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Stay updated with ML research and best practices in MLOps.
• Contribute to data science standards and reusable components.
• Build data pipelines and automated reporting tools.
• Identify opportunities where data science can add business value.
• Mentor junior data scientists and share knowledge.

Skills

Python

R

ML

Cloud platforms

SQL

Education

Master's degree

PhD

Tools

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Pandas

NumPy

Job description

About the Role

This is a fully remote opportunity for a Senior Data Scientist specializing in Machine Learning, working with our client. You will be based from your home office, collaborating with a globally distributed team. The primary focus of this role is to design, develop, and deploy advanced machine learning models that drive business insights and product innovation. You will tackle complex challenges in areas such as predictive modeling, anomaly detection, natural language processing, and computer vision. As a remote-first employee, you will leverage cutting-edge tools and cloud platforms to deliver scalable and robust data science solutions. The successful candidate will have a passion for extracting value from large datasets and a strong understanding of the entire machine learning lifecycle. This position offers the flexibility and autonomy of remote work while providing exposure to high-impact projects and opportunities for significant professional growth within a forward-thinking organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement sophisticated machine learning algorithms and statistical models.
• Design and conduct A/B tests and other experiments to validate model performance and business impact.
• Process, clean, and transform large, complex datasets for modeling purposes.
• Collaborate with software engineers and product managers to integrate ML models into production systems.
• Communicate complex analytical findings and recommendations to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Stay current with the latest research and advancements in machine learning, AI, and data science.
• Contribute to the development of best practices and standards for data science and MLOps.
• Build data pipelines and automated reporting tools.
• Identify new opportunities for leveraging data science to solve business problems.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior data scientists.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Data Science, or a related quantitative field.
• 5+ years of professional experience in data science, with a strong focus on machine learning.
• Proficiency in Python or R, including relevant libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Pandas, NumPy).
• Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP and their associated ML services.
• Solid understanding of statistical modeling, experimental design, and machine learning techniques (e.g., regression, classification, clustering, deep learning).
• Experience with SQL and database technologies.
• Proven ability to translate business problems into data science solutions.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, capable of explaining technical concepts to a diverse audience.
• Demonstrated experience in remote collaboration tools and practices.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Benefits

• As a fully remote position, our client offers significant flexibility and the ability to work from anywhere.
• The compensation package includes a highly competitive salary, performance bonuses, and stock options.
• We provide a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Professional development is strongly encouraged, with access to online courses, conferences, and training programs.
• This role in George, Western Cape (though fully remote) offers the chance to be part of a pioneering team, shaping the future of AI and machine learning applications.
• We value work-life balance and provide ample paid time off.
• Enjoy the benefits of working from home while contributing to impactful global projects.