Principal Data Scientist (Big Data Analytics)
Summary
Senior data science role in Randburg, South Africa: lead advanced big data analytics projects, build and deploy production ML models on large-scale pipelines, and mentor junior data scientists. Core stack includes Spark, Hadoop, and Kafka, with Python/R, SQL/NoSQL, and cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or GCP.
About the Role
Our client, a leader in data-driven solutions for diverse industries, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Data Scientist with extensive experience in Big Data Analytics to join their elite team in Randburg, Gauteng . This senior position requires a candidate who can harness the power of massive datasets to extract actionable insights, build predictive models, and drive strategic business decisions. You will lead complex analytical projects, mentor junior data scientists, and contribute significantly to the innovation and technological direction of the company. This is an unparalleled opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies and solve challenging problems at scale.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and implementation of advanced analytics solutions using big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop, Kafka).
- Develop and deploy sophisticated machine learning models, statistical analyses, and data mining techniques to uncover trends and patterns in large datasets.
- Collaborate with stakeholders across business units to understand their challenges and translate them into data science problems.
- Build robust data pipelines for ingestion, transformation, and processing of large volumes of structured and unstructured data.
- Evaluate and select appropriate algorithms and tools for specific analytical tasks.
- Communicate complex findings and recommendations clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences through visualizations and presentations.
- Mentor and guide junior data scientists, fostering a culture of learning and technical excellence.
- Stay abreast of the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and big data technologies.
- Contribute to the development of data strategy and best practices within the organization.
- Ensure the quality, integrity, and security of data used for analysis.
Requirements
- Ph.D. or Master's degree in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
- A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in data science, with a strong focus on big data analytics and machine learning.
- Proven expertise in developing and deploying machine learning models in production environments.
- Hands-on experience with big data platforms such as Apache Spark, Hadoop ecosystem (HDFS, MapReduce), and distributed databases.
- Proficiency in programming languages like Python or R, and experience with data science libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, pandas, NumPy).
- Strong knowledge of SQL and experience with NoSQL databases.
- Experience with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP) for big data processing and analytics.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
- Outstanding communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex concepts effectively.
- Experience leading projects and mentoring junior team members is essential.
Benefits
Our client offers a highly competitive salary, commensurate with experience, alongside a generous performance bonus structure and comprehensive benefits package. This includes excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a robust retirement savings plan. Employees benefit from ample opportunities for professional development, including access to advanced training, certifications, and industry conferences. The role is based in Randburg, Gauteng , providing a stimulating and collaborative work environment with significant potential for career advancement. Join a forward-thinking company and make a significant impact through data-driven innovation.