South Africa: Data Scientist

January 18, 2026 Jobs in South Africa

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled Data Scientist to join our team in Cape Town, onsite. The ideal candidate will enhance, maintain, and evolve analytical and optimisation models used to drive product assortment decisions, including substitution logic, leftover-stock (“carcass”) balancing, and fraud-related anomaly detection. This is a highly analytical, process-driven role suited to someone with a strong quantitative foundation.

Key Responsibilities

Enhance and maintain clustering models that group stores based on department-level similarities.
Analyse department attributes across stores to determine optimal product allocations.
Develop data-driven insights into customer needs to improve assortment effectiveness.
Build and refine models that calculate substitution scores identifying alternative products when preferred items are unavailable.
Support decision-making about which substitutes can be routed to which stores based on demand patterns.
Analyse leftover stock and determine optimal redistribution strategies across stores.
Build optimisation algorithms to minimise waste and maximise stock clearance efficiency.
Identify outliers, unusual patterns, and potential fraud within assortment and clustering processes.
Contribute to automated audit mechanisms and anomaly detection models.

Requirements

3 years of experience in data science, optimisation, modelling, or operations analytics (mid-level) OR 5 years for senior candidates.
Strong experience with Python or R SQL Machine Learning modelling Optimisation frameworks (e.g., linear programming, constraint optimisation).
Experience working with complex, production-level models (experience with consulting-style modelling advantageous).
Ability to understand business processes and translate them into analytical solutions.
Strong problem-solving and conceptual thinking abilities.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Industrial, Systems, Operations, etc.) strongly preferred Operational Research Data Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or equivalent quantitative field

Salary & Benefits

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How to Apply

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About IT / Computing / Software Jobs in ZA

In the IT and computing industry in South Africa, the job market is generally stable with a steady demand for skilled professionals. The growing importance of technology in various sectors, such as financial services, healthcare, and e-commerce, has created a strong foundation for career growth and development.

Typically, salaries for IT and computing positions in South Africa vary widely depending on factors such as experience, company size, industry sector, and specific job requirements. Generally, salaries range from around R400 000 to over R1 million per annum, although these figures are subject to variation and may not reflect actual salaries at specific companies or in certain regions. For example, senior IT professionals with extensive experience may earn higher salaries than junior entry-level positions.

Common skills required for IT and computing roles in South Africa include proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++, as well as experience with software development methodologies like Agile or Scrum. Other essential skills often include knowledge of cloud computing platforms, database management systems, and cybersecurity principles. Additionally, excellent problem-solving skills, communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with teams are highly valued.

The IT and computing industry is a significant employer in various sectors, including financial services, technology, manufacturing, and healthcare. Financial institutions often require IT professionals for roles such as system administration, network management, or risk management, while tech companies need skilled developers, testers, and project managers to support their software development efforts. In the manufacturing sector, IT professionals are often required for roles like quality control, supply chain management, or production planning.

For those interested in pursuing a career in IT and computing, there are many opportunities for career development and advancement. Typically, entry-level positions serve as a starting point, followed by progression to senior developer, system administrator, or project manager roles. Many companies also offer training and development programs to enhance skills and knowledge, while online courses, certifications, and industry events provide additional opportunities for professional growth.

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This information provides general career guidance. Actual salaries and requirements vary by employer.

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