Snr Specialist : Big Data & Analytics

Transnet; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company seeks a Specialist in Big Data Science to enhance Data Warehouse systems and provide strategic guidance within the organization. The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in BI, with a track record in managing teams and projects, while promoting the integration of advanced technologies and best practices in data management.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in IT related to Data Warehouse, Business Intelligence, Analytics.
• 4+ years in management roles required.
• Strong communication and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Guide and support design and development of Data Warehouse systems.
• Lead projects for new Big Data & Analytics solutions.
• Collaborate across departments to enhance BI capabilities.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree or Diploma in IT or Computer Science

Certifications such as Business Intelligence/Analytics, DMBoK, ITIL

Tools

SAP BW

SAP Business Objects

Power BI

Job description

Job Location : Gauteng, Johannesburg
Deadline : August 15, 2025

Position Purpose

• The Specialist Big Data Science provides guidance and support in the design, development, release, and maintenance of Data Warehouse and Data Mart systems, and related applications or services (e.g., reporting) for Transnet Freight Rail (TFR).
• The individual works closely with customers, vendors/service providers, colleagues, and other stakeholders to identify and maximize opportunities for using Data Warehouse systems to improve business processes, promote strategic use of IT across TFR, and enable the workforce to utilize technologies effectively.
• The incumbent provides leadership, vision, and direction for Data Warehousing/Data Mart systems and Big Data and Analytics, ensuring alignment with TFR’s business objectives and requirements.
• A key responsibility is maintaining organizational balance and system coherency between desktop/client activities and Data Warehouse back-end processing.
• Strategy & Planning: Assess and cultivate long-term strategic goals for BI development with end users, managers, and stakeholders. Conduct research on emerging technologies, best practices, languages, and standards; make recommendations to support procurement and development.
• Acquisition & Deployment: Evaluate and select database/data warehouse components, including hardware, relational database management systems, ETL software, metadata tools, and design solutions. Define business requirements for BI tools, translate into technical specifications, and lead BI software deployment and maintenance.
• Operational Management: Lead projects for implementing new Big Data & Analytics tools, systems, and solutions. Oversee integration efforts with enterprise systems. Analyze user requirements, design, code, and test following Agile and DevOps methodologies. Establish system performance assessment processes and troubleshoot BI tools and systems.
• Cross-Department Collaboration: Promote Big Data Science & Analytics benefits across the organization. Follow and enhance standards and best practices. Mentor team members and provide consultation on complex projects.
• Education & Training: Continuously educate stakeholders on BI principles. Train staff and peers on BI topics. Participate in designing and delivering end-user training.
• Management: Oversee activities of junior specialists, ensuring alignment with business goals. Build effective relationships and data-driven solutions. Provide mentorship and leadership.
• DevOps Culture: Facilitate principles of flow, feedback, and continual learning to improve organizational processes and resilience.

Qualifications & Experience :

Requirements :

• Bachelor’s Degree or Diploma in IT or Computer Science. Certifications such as Business Intelligence/Analytics, DMBoK, ITIL are advantageous.

Experience :

• 8+ years in IT disciplines related to Data Warehouse, Business Intelligence, Analytics, or Application Development, with at least 4 years in management roles.
• Strong customer focus, research skills, and ability to evaluate technical solutions against business needs.
• Excellent communication skills to present technical information to diverse audiences.
• Analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills in complex environments.
• Ability to adapt to rapid technological changes and lead projects using advanced technology.

Knowledge :

• Advanced SQL, relational databases, query authoring, and performance tuning.
• Knowledge of data architecture, database design, and BI platforms like SAP BW, SAP Business Objects, Power BI.
• Understanding of data warehousing, ETL, data validation, and business principles.
• Knowledge of data privacy laws (e.g., PoPIA) and governance standards (e.g., COBIT, ITIL, ISO 20000) is beneficial.