Senior Data Scientist - Nelspruit Analytics Hub

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

Placements24 in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, is seeking a Senior Data Scientist to lead analytics initiatives in our on-site hub. You will build predictive models, analyze large datasets, and translate findings into business insights for stakeholders.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD or Master’s in a quantitative field, 5+ years of experience, and strong skills in Python or R, SQL, and data visualization tools like Tableau or Power BI.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Economics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in data science or a related analytical role.
• Strong programming in Python or R with data science libraries such as pandas, numpy, scikit-learn, statsmodels.

Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and deploy predictive models using machine learning and statistical techniques.
• Analyze large datasets to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies relevant to business objectives.
• Design and conduct experiments to test hypotheses and evaluate data-driven interventions.
• Collaborate with business units to define problem statements and data requirements.
• Communicate complex analytical findings clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Create data visualizations and reports to illustrate insights.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to team growth.
• Stay updated on advances in data science, ML, and AI.
• Ensure data quality and integrity throughout analyses.
• Contribute to development and implementation of the company’s data strategy.

Skills

Statistical modeling

Machine learning

Data analysis

Communication skills

Problem solving

Education

PhD or Master's in Statistics/Mathematics/CS/Economics

Tools

Python

R

pandas

numpy

scikit-learn

statsmodels

SQL

Tableau

Power BI

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading firm in the financial services sector, leveraging data-driven insights to inform strategic decisions and enhance customer experiences. We are seeking an experienced Senior Data Scientist to join our dedicated analytics hub in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. This is an on-site position where you will lead complex data analysis projects, build predictive models, and derive actionable insights from large and diverse datasets. You will work closely with business stakeholders to understand their challenges and translate them into data science solutions. This role demands a strong analytical mindset, proficiency in statistical modeling and machine learning, and excellent communication skills to convey findings effectively. You will play a vital role in shaping the company's data strategy and driving innovation through advanced analytics. The ideal candidate possesses a proven track record of delivering impactful data science projects within a corporate environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and deploy predictive models using machine learning and statistical techniques.
• Analyze large datasets to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies relevant to business objectives.
• Design and conduct experiments to test hypotheses and evaluate the impact of data-driven interventions.
• Collaborate with business units to define problem statements and data requirements.
• Communicate complex analytical findings and recommendations clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Create compelling data visualizations and reports to illustrate insights.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the team's technical growth.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and AI.
• Ensure data quality and integrity throughout the analysis process.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of the company's data strategy.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Economics, or a related quantitative field.
• A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in data science or a related analytical role.
• Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and experience with data science libraries (e.g., pandas, numpy, scikit-learn, statsmodels).
• Expertise in statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms (e.g., regression, classification, clustering, time series analysis), and model evaluation.
• Experience with SQL and working with relational databases.
• Familiarity with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) and techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to business stakeholders.
• Experience working in the financial services industry is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, on-site environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance are provided.
• A retirement savings plan and life insurance are included.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave are offered.
• Opportunities for professional development, including attendance at industry conferences and specialized training, are supported.
• Access to robust data infrastructure and analytical tools is guaranteed.
• Performance-based bonuses may be awarded.
• The opportunity to drive strategic decisions within a leading financial institution is a significant benefit.
• A structured career progression path is available.