POSITION: Senior Data Scientist
LOCATION: Mbarara, Uganda
EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Full-time
EXPERIENCE: 4-6 years
TRAVEL REQUIRED: 10%
REPORTING TO: Technical Lead – Data Insights and Innovation
Job Description
The Senior Data Scientist is both a strategic and hands-on role, focusing on advancing our data science roadmap, building smart and scalable products, and elevating the department’s machine learning maturity. The successful candidate will bring a blend of technical excellence, visionary thinking, and strong leadership to shape how Venn uses data to predict, inform, and deliver meaningful outcomes. The role requires a deep understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms, and data science methodologies to provide actionable insights and improve overall efficiency.
Roles & Responsibilities
Strategic AI & ML Leadership
- Champion the organisation’s AI and ML strategy, aligning technical capabilities with organisational goals and impact metrics.
- Lead the development of flagship AI solutions such as climate risk engines, household vulnerability scoring, crop diagnostics, and more.
- Foster a roadmap of experimentation and continuous learning, including internal pilots and partnerships with research and academic institutions.
Technical Oversight & Model Development
- Lead end-to-end development of robust machine learning models — from data discovery and feature engineering to deployment and monitoring.
- Build models that go beyond outputs to predict outcomes, evaluate counterfactuals, and support early warning systems like risk assessments.
- Ensure all models are explainable, ethical, and responsive to field realities in low-data environments.
Team Leadership & Mentorship
- Supervise and mentor a cross-functional team of data scientists, ML engineers, and data engineers.
- Cultivate a strong culture of collaboration, technical growth, and continuous innovation.
- Guide peer learning and internal capacity building across Venn and program teams.
Product Integration & Scale
- Work with product managers, software engineers, and other teams to integrate AI/ML features into digital platforms used by field teams.
- Support the development of real-time analytics tools and advisory systems that are accessible, reliable, and actionable at the last mile.
Innovation Partnerships & Influence
- Represent Venn’s AI capabilities internally and externally to build visibility and partnerships that enhance our innovation portfolio.
- Stay ahead of emerging trends in AI, ML, and data science and translate relevant advances into RTV’s context.
Requirements and Experience
Qualifications and Skills
- Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Artificial Intelligence, Mathematics, Economics, or a related field.
- At least 4 years of experience in predictive analytics, AI, machine learning, or data science.
- Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, SQL, or Julia.
- Experience with machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn) and big data technologies.
- Expertise in statistical analysis, predictive modeling, and algorithm development.
- Proficiency in data visualization tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or Matplotlib.
- Knowledge of cloud-based AI services (e.g., AWS, Google AI, Azure Machine Learning)
- Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills with a results-oriented approach.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with diverse teams.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and adapt to evolving priorities.
- Experience in applied AI within social impact, healthcare, or rural development contexts is desirable.
Personal Qualities:
- Highly motivated and proactive with a passion for data-driven innovation.
- Strong analytical mindset with attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
- Enthusiastic about applying AI and predictive analytics for social good.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in workplace practices.
Application Process
To apply, please submit your application here.
Raising The Village is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We highly encourage women candidates to apply.
