Principal Data Scientist

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Role Purpose/Business Unit

Vodacom is committed to delivering innovative solutions. We leverage advanced analytics, machine learning, and big data technologies to tackle critical challenges and ensure the integrity of our operations. Our dedicated team in the fraud analytics department focuses on protecting our business and our customers from financial crimes and fraudulent activities.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Principal Data Scientist to join our Big Data Team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in data science, with specific experience in scaled Machine Learning deployment experience. This role involves developing and implementing sophisticated analytical solutions using the Big Data stack.

Your Responsibilities Will Include

Leadership and Team Management:

• Lead and mentor a team of Senior and Junior Data Scientists, providing guidance, support, and professional development.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment, encouraging knowledge sharing and continuous learning.
  
  
  

Project Management

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced data analytics projects.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure projects align with business objectives and timelines.
• Monitor project progress, manage resources, and ensure timely delivery of high-quality results.
  
  
  

Strategic Planning

• Develop and execute a strategic vision for data science initiatives that align with the company's overall goals.
• Identify opportunities for leveraging data to drive business innovation and competitive advantage.
• Define and prioritize data science projects based on business needs and potential impact.
  
  
  

Technical Expertise And Innovation

• Apply advanced statistical, machine learning, and AI techniques to solve complex business problems.
• Stay abreast of the latest trends and advancements in data science and AI, incorporating new tools and methodologies as appropriate.
• Ensure the team’s technical proficiency and adherence to best practices in data science.
  
  
  

Stakeholder Engagement

• Communicate complex data insights and technical information to non-technical stakeholders clearly and effectively.
• Collaborate with business leaders to identify data-driven opportunities and challenges.
• Present findings and recommendations to senior management and other key stakeholders.
  
  
  

Quality Assurance And Compliance

• Establish and enforce data governance policies, ensuring data integrity, privacy, and security
• Implement rigorous quality assurance processes for all data science outputs.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and industry standards.
  
  
  

Performance Monitoring And Reporting

• Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness and impact of data science initiatives.
• Regularly review and report on the performance of data science projects and team members.
• Use data-driven insights to continuously improve processes and outcomes.
  
  
  

The Ideal Candidate For This Role Will Have

Must have technical / professional qualifications and experience:

• 5-9 years’ experience in similar senior data science role
• Bachelor’s or master's degree in quantitative fields like Mathematics, Statistics, Economics, Computer Science Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Social Sciences, Data Journalism, or related fields
• Expertise in data manipulation: use of structured data tools (e.g., SQL), & unstructured data tools and platforms (e.g., Hadoop, Spark, NoSQL)
• Proficiency in at least one relevant programming language: Python, Scala
• Expertise in machine learning libraries (e.g., R, H2O, Scikit Learning, TensorFlow , Pytorch , Xgboost , LightGBM) and multivariate techniques (e.g. k-means segmentation, multiple regression, factor analysis, timeseries forecasting)
• Experience in digital data sets, e.g., social listening, social network analysis)
• Familiarity with visualisation tools (e .g. Tableau, Qlik, D3)
• Exposure/interest in machine learning
• Experience in Deploying Models in Cloud (AWS, GCP , Azure)
• Data Knowledge in Machine Learning , Deep Learning and Predictive Modelling
• Deep Expertise in Big Data Technologies.
• MLOPS understanding and Experience. Working with MLOPS tools MLFLOW (etc)
• Natural Language Process (NLP)
• AWS Certification Advantageous
  
  
  

Core Competencies, Knowledge, And Experience

• Development of machine learning models for various areas of the business on the Big Data Platform
• Development of prototype code in e.g. PySpark for automated training and scoring of the machine learning models
• Machine Learning Model performance tracking and reporting using e.g. Qlik
• Uses data visualisation to engage audience in a compelling way, enabling effective storytelling
• Work with lead data scientist to deliver key packages of work to meet the needs of business customers
• Works in partnership with Big Data Engineering for data ingestion to support use cases
• Works in partnership with Big Data Production Data Engineering for model automation and productionising
  
  
  

We Make An Impact By Offering

• Enticing incentive programs, competitive benefit packages, and exclusive 13th cheque
• Retirement funds, risk benefits, and medical aid benefits
• Cell phone and data benefits, advantages fibre connection discounts, and exclusive staff discounts offered in collaboration with partner companies
  
  
  

Closing date for Applications:07 August 2024

The base location for this role is Vodacom Midrand Campus

The company's approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply.

Vodacom is committed to an organizational culture that recognizes, appreciates, and values diversity & inclusion.