Data Scientist III

Are you an experienced Data Scientist passionate about driving AI innovation and solving complex business challenges? Capitec Bank is looking for a talented Data Scientist III (Mid/Senior level) to join our dynamic team in South Africa. This is a unique opportunity to shape and own Capitec’s AI strategy from the ground up, making a real impact on our mission to become the best bank in the world.

About Capitec Bank

At Capitec, we believe banking should empower people to control their financial lives. We offer simplified, accessible, and affordable banking services delivered through personal experiences. By helping our clients manage their finances better, we enable them to live better.

We pride ourselves on a culture where we always put the Client first, act with Energy, and take Ownership. We foster cohesive teams, provide ample growth opportunities, and offer comprehensive employee benefits to ensure every team member feels valued and supported in their journey to be their best.

About the Role: Data Scientist III

As a Mid/Senior Data Scientist at Capitec, you will be crucial in advancing the bank’s AI capabilities. Your primary goal will be to design, implement, and optimize cutting-edge predictive models and intelligent algorithms. You will work across the full machine learning lifecycle, from data preparation and experimental design to deploying models in production.

What You’ll Do: Key Responsibilities

• Drive and shape Capitec’s AI strategy using state-of-the-art machine learning principles, including deep learning, NLP, and reinforcement learning.
• Develop innovative models to solve complex business problems and uncover actionable insights.
• Manage the entire machine learning lifecycle, from data preprocessing to production-level model deployment.
• Gather requirements and engage with stakeholders, including executive-level management, to align AI initiatives with business goals.
• Apply your expertise in deep learning frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch.
• Mentor junior data scientists, contributing to a collaborative and growth-focused team environment.

Areas of Focus

This role spans various critical business areas, offering diverse challenges and opportunities:

• Business banking client experience delivery
• Retail banking client experience delivery
• Marketing client insights and engagement
• Retail credit management
• Risk management

What We’re Looking For: Skills & Experience

• Minimum of 6 years of experience in a Senior Data Science role.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field.
• Proven hands-on experience deploying AI/ML solutions in real-world applications.
• Strong experience with advanced data science principles, including NLP, deep learning, reinforcement learning, or time-series modeling.
• Proficiency in Python/R and experience with relational/non-relational databases.
• Familiarity with modern deep learning frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow).
• Demonstrated ability to manage stakeholder engagement, including interactions with executive management.
• Experience with version control systems like Git or GitHub.
• Knowledge of cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP.

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking and the ability to contribute to Capitec’s long-term vision.
• Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Proficient research skills to stay updated with industry trends.
• Solid project management skills.
• Effective planning, organizing, and coordination abilities.

Education Requirements

• A completed degree or higher is required.
• A Master’s degree is considered ideal.

If you are a driven and innovative Data Scientist ready to make a significant impact, we encourage you to apply and help us build the future of banking!

Capitec is committed to diversity, and all appointments will support the achievement of our employment equity goals where feasible.