Senior Sports Data Scientist (Remote)

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Sports Data Scientist to join its analytics team. The role is fully remote and supports initiatives based in Klerksdorp, South Africa.

You will lead advanced models and ML methods to extract insights from large sports datasets, influencing player development, tactical decisions, and performance optimization for elite athletes and teams. You will mentor junior data scientists, collaborate with coaches and performance staff, and present findings to non-technical

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, or related quantitative field.
• 5+ years of professional data science experience with emphasis on sports analytics.
• Proficiency in Python or R and experience with ML libraries such as scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and implementation of statistical models and ML algorithms for sports performance.
• Analyze large sports datasets to identify performance indicators and trends.
• Develop and validate predictive models for player performance, injury risk, and game outcomes.
• Collaborate with scientists, coaches, and performance staff to apply insights in training and strategy.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to technical direction of the analytics team.

Skills

Sports analytics

Statistical modeling

Machine learning

Data mining

Leadership / mentoring

Problem-solving

Education

Master's or PhD in Data Science/Statistics/CS or related quantitative field

Tools

Python

R

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a highly skilled and experienced Senior Sports Data Scientist to join their leading analytics team, operating entirely remotely to support initiatives based in Klerksdorp . In this critical role, you will lead the development and application of advanced statistical models and machine learning algorithms to extract actionable insights from vast sports datasets. Your work will directly influence player development, tactical strategies, and performance optimization for elite athletes and teams. This is a challenging and rewarding opportunity for a seasoned data professional passionate about leveraging data to revolutionize sports performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of sophisticated statistical models and machine learning algorithms for sports performance analysis.
• Analyze large and complex datasets from various sources (e.g., player tracking, biomechanics, game statistics) to identify key performance indicators and trends.
• Develop and validate predictive models for player performance, injury risk, and game outcomes.
• Collaborate closely with sports scientists, coaches, and performance staff to integrate data-driven insights into training and strategy.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the overall growth and technical direction of the analytics team.
• Present complex findings and recommendations clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in data science, with a significant focus on sports analytics.
• Expertise in statistical modeling , machine learning techniques, and data mining.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and experience with relevant libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Strong understanding of sports performance principles and various sports methodologies.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to identifying analytical opportunities.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Fully remote position with flexible working hours.
• Opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology and world-class sports data.
• Significant impact on high-performance sports strategies and athlete development.
• Support for continuous learning and professional development in data science and sports analytics.