Data Scientist at Safaricom Kenya

Job Description

Safaricom is the leading provider of converged communication solutions in Kenya. In addition to providing a broad range of first-class products and services for Telephony, Broadband Internet and Financial services, Safaricom seeks to uplift the welfare of Kenyans through value-added services and support for community projects.

Summary

Reporting to the Data Scientist – Big Data and Business Analytics, the Data Scientist will develop and run with data-centered projects. In keeping with this overarching aim, the data scientist will be required to outline work requirements, coach, mentor and assign tasks to junior staff on a project basis and monitor performance within the team. You should also harness your mastery of Data Science to consult on various aspects of these and other projects. To be successful in this position, you should use data to ultimately inform and promote the company’s expansion. This position will assume a prominent role in the development of junior staff and upcoming talent.

Key Responsibilities

Formulating, suggesting, and managing data-driven projects which are geared at furthering the business’s interests. Collating and cleaning data from various entities for use on various data science related tasks. Delegating tasks to Junior Data Scientists in order to realize the successful completion of projects. Mentoring, coaching and supervision of Junior Data Scientists and providing them with practical guidance, as needed. Selecting and employing advanced statistical and or machine learning techniques and procedures to obtain actionable insights. Validating models to ensure their generalizability. Producing and disseminating both technical and non-technical reports that detail the successes, and limitations of each project. Suggesting ways in which insights obtained might be used to inform business strategies. Staying informed about developments in Data Science and adjacent fields to ensure that outputs are always relevant.

Qualifications

Degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Actuarial science, Economics & Statistics, Computer science, or any quantitative degree. At least two years’ experience as a data scientist, and at least 1 year experience in a data-related field (experience in credit scoring and/or developing business or agriculture applications a strong plus) In-depth understanding of SQL. Proficiency in Python and/or R and data visualization techniques. Familiarity with Spark will be an added advantage. Competent in machine learning principles and techniques. Strong skills in experimental design techniques and execution will be highly desirable. Strong problem-solving skills with an emphasis on product development. Demonstrable history of devising and overseeing data-centered projects. Excellent written, verbal and presentation skills. Ability to relay insights in layman’s terms, such that these can be used to inform business decisions. Drive to learn and master new technologies and techniques. Outstanding supervision and mentorship abilities. Capacity to foster a healthy, stimulating work environment that frequently harnesses teamwork. Compliance with prevailing ethical standards.