Senior Data Scientist - Mining Analytics

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-friendly global role

Flexible hours and location independ

Professional development opportunities

Competitive salary

Collaborative team

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Data Scientist to lead advanced analytics initiatives in a fully remote role. You will design, implement, and deploy ML models, build robust data pipelines, and translate complex data into actionable insights that optimise mining operations, safety, and production forecasting across global assets.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s or PhD in a quantitative field, 5–7 years’ experience, strong Python (Pandas/Scikit-learn) and SQL skills, and the ability to

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Data Science, CS, Stats, or engineering.
• 5–7 years of professional data science/analytics experience.
• Strong modeling, ML, and experimental design skills.
• Proficient in Python and SQL; familiarity with Spark/Hadoop is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy ML models and algorithms for mining challenges.
• Extract, clean, and transform large datasets from diverse sources.
• Develop and maintain data pipelines and analytics frameworks.
• Collaborate with geologists, engineers, and operations managers to translate needs into data solutions.
• Create dashboards and reports to communicate insights to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Mentor junior data scientists and ensure data quality and security.

Skills

Remote collaboration

Problem solving

Data storytelling

Independent work

Education

Master's or PhD in Data Science, CS, Stats, or related field

Tools

Python (Pandas/Numpy/Scikit-learn)

SQL and big data tools (Spark/Hadoop)

Tableau/Power BI

TensorFlow/PyTorch

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader committed to leveraging cutting-edge technology within the mining sector, is seeking a visionary Senior Data Scientist to spearhead their advanced analytics initiatives. This is a fully remote position, offering unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to work from anywhere. The core focus will be on developing and implementing sophisticated data-driven solutions to optimize mining operations, enhance safety, improve resource estimation, and drive operational efficiency across diverse mining assets. The ideal candidate will possess a robust background in statistical modeling, machine learning, predictive analytics, and a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the mining industry. You will play a critical role in transforming raw data into actionable insights, contributing significantly to strategic decision-making and innovation within the organization. This role requires a self-motivated individual capable of working autonomously and collaborating effectively with remote teams worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy machine learning models and statistical algorithms to address complex mining challenges (e.g., predictive maintenance, ore grade prediction, production forecasting, safety risk assessment).
• Extract, clean, and transform large, complex datasets from various sources, including operational data, sensor data, geological data, and financial data.
• Develop and maintain data pipelines and robust analytical frameworks.
• Collaborate closely with domain experts (geologists, engineers, operations managers) to understand their needs and translate them into data science problems.
• Communicate complex analytical findings and insights clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders through visualizations and reports.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, and assess their applicability to the mining industry.
• Contribute to the development of a data-driven culture within the organization.
• Mentor junior data scientists and analysts.
• Ensure data quality, integrity, and security in all analytical processes.
• Develop dashboards and reporting tools to monitor key performance indicators and track the impact of data-driven initiatives.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of professional experience in data science and advanced analytics.
• Proven expertise in statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms (e.g., regression, classification, clustering, deep learning), and experimental design.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python (with libraries like Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow/PyTorch) or R.
• Strong experience with SQL and working with relational databases. Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) is a plus.
• Excellent data visualization skills (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, Matplotlib, Seaborn).
• Strong understanding of the mining industry's operational and data landscape is highly desirable.
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to identifying opportunities.
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage projects effectively in a remote setting.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary reflective of expertise and the remote nature of the role.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive remote work infrastructure support.
• Flexible working hours and location independence.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning through online courses and conferences.
• Direct impact on optimizing global mining operations.
• Collaborative and innovative team environment, despite the remote setup.