Principal Data Scientist – Hybrid, Johannesburg

About the role

We are looking for a Data Science Principal to join our team and drive enterprise‑scale machine learning and AI use cases for large South African organisations. The role works on modern cloud platforms and covers the full data‑science lifecycle, from discovery through production deployment and MLOps.

Key responsibilities

• Set technical direction and shape the service offering for the Data and AI practice.
• Conceptualise high‑impact ML and AI use cases with senior client stakeholders and translate business problems into technical solutions.
• Lead end‑to‑end delivery of enterprise‑scale data‑science projects, including design, development, and production deployment.
• Architect and oversee robust data pipelines that support real‑time and batch predictive solutions.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to data scientists, ML engineers, and consultants across multiple engagements.
• Act as a trusted advisor on data‑science strategy, MLOps, and responsible AI practices.

Required profile

• A tertiary degree (honours preferred) in a quantitative or technology field.
• 10+ years of relevant experience, with at least 7 years in data science and AI, delivering enterprise‑scale solutions.
• Track record of working with large South African organisations across multiple sectors.
• Relevant data and analytics certifications at architect or practitioner level.

Required skills

• Machine Learning and MLOps frameworks.
• Generative AI, Large Language Models, and applied statistical methods.
• Cloud platforms from major hyperscalers (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Data modelling techniques: ERD, dimensional, Data Vault, NoSQL.
• Strong SQL proficiency and relational database expertise.
• Knowledge of data quality management and regulations such as POPIA, GDPR, BCBS 239.