Senior Data Scientist - Predictive Modeling

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Annual bonus

Paid time off

Professional development

Hybrid work in Klerksdorp

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a leading retail analytics provider in Klerksdorp, North West to hire a Senior Data Scientist. You will develop and deploy predictive models for customer behavior, sales forecasting, and inventory management in a hybrid work setting.

The role requires a strong background in statistics and ML, programming in Python or R, and experience with large datasets and ML frameworks. Collaboration with stakeholders is essential to translate data into business value.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Economics, or a related quantitative field.
• 5+ years of hands-on experience as a Data Scientist with a proven track record in building and deploying predictive models.
• Strong proficiency in statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms, and experimental design.
• Programming experience in Python or R with libraries such as pandas, scikit-learn, statsmodels, TensorFlow/PyTorch.
• Experience with SQL and large datasets; familiarity with Spark/Hadoop is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and deploy predictive models for customer behavior, sales forecasting, and inventory management.
• Apply advanced statistical methods and ML techniques (regression, classification, clustering, time series) to solve business problems.
• Analyze large datasets to identify patterns, trends, and insights for strategy.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to define project scope and communicate findings clearly.
• Design experiments to test hypotheses and evaluate model performance.
• Work with data engineers to ensure data availability and quality.

Skills

Python

R

SQL

Pandas

Scikit‑learn

TensorFlow/PyTorch

Spark/Hadoop

Data visualization

Communication

Education

Masters or PhD in Statistics/ Mathematics/ CS/ Economics

Tools

Spark

Hadoop

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the retail analytics sector, is seeking a talented and experienced Senior Data Scientist to join their innovative team in Klerksdorp, North West . This role is central to developing and deploying sophisticated predictive models that drive strategic business decisions. You will leverage advanced statistical techniques and machine learning algorithms to uncover insights from complex datasets, forecast trends, and optimize business operations. The ideal candidate possesses a strong analytical mindset, deep expertise in statistical modeling and machine learning, and a passion for translating data into actionable business value. This hybrid role combines collaborative team sessions with focused individual work, offering flexibility and productivity.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and deploy predictive models for key business areas, such as customer behavior, sales forecasting, and inventory management.


• Apply advanced statistical methods and machine learning techniques (regression, classification, clustering, time series analysis, etc.) to solve complex business problems.


• Explore and analyze large datasets to identify patterns, trends, and insights that inform business strategy.


• Collaborate with business stakeholders to understand their needs, define project scope, and communicate findings effectively.


• Design and conduct experiments to test hypotheses and evaluate the performance of models.


• Work with data engineers to ensure the availability and quality of data required for modeling.


• Develop and implement strategies for model monitoring, maintenance, and retraining to ensure ongoing accuracy and relevance.


• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the team's technical growth.


• Present complex analytical findings and recommendations in a clear and concise manner to diverse audiences.


• Stay current with the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and relevant technologies.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Economics, or a related quantitative field.


• 5+ years of hands-on experience as a Data Scientist, with a proven track record in building and deploying predictive models.


• Strong proficiency in statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms, and experimental design.


• Expertise in programming languages such as Python or R, and relevant data science libraries (e.g., pandas, scikit-learn, statsmodels, TensorFlow/PyTorch).


• Experience with SQL and working with large datasets.


• Familiarity with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) is a plus.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.


• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.


• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a hybrid work environment.


• Experience in the retail or e-commerce sector is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including annual bonuses and performance incentives. Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance are provided. Generous paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and public holidays, is offered. Professional development opportunities include access to training, conferences, and continuous learning resources. The role offers a stimulating work environment in Klerksdorp, North West , fostering innovation and collaboration. You will work with significant datasets and have a direct impact on business strategy.