Data Science Lead Job Vacancy in Banjul, Gambia – Information Technology

Job Description

Position: Data Science Lead

Company: Microsoft Gambia

Location: Banjul, Gambia

Experience: 5+ years of professional experience in data science, machine learning, and analytics

Education: Master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Information Technology

Department: Data & Analytics

Salary: SSP 250,000 – 400,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Microsoft Gambia is a leading technology hub in West Africa, delivering innovative cloud solutions, enterprise software, and digital transformation services to businesses across the region. As part of the global Microsoft family, the Gambian branch aligns with the company’s mission to empower every person and organization to achieve more. With a strong commitment to local talent development, Microsoft Gambia collaborates with universities, startups, and government agencies to foster a vibrant tech ecosystem. The company’s presence in Banjul provides a strategic gateway to the broader West African market, offering employees exposure to cutting‑edge technologies and high‑impact projects that shape the future of digital economies.

Job Overview

The Data Science Lead will spearhead the design, development, and deployment of advanced analytics and machine learning models that drive strategic decision‑making for Microsoft’s regional clients. Reporting to the Head of Data & Analytics, you will lead a multidisciplinary team of data engineers, analysts, and junior data scientists to translate complex business challenges into scalable data solutions. This role is pivotal in enhancing Microsoft’s AI‑powered offerings, optimizing cloud resource utilization, and delivering actionable insights that improve customer outcomes. For more information about Microsoft’s career platform, visit https://gambiajobsearch.com.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and execute the data science roadmap aligned with regional business objectives.
• Lead the end‑to‑end lifecycle of machine learning projects, from data ingestion to model monitoring.
• Collaborate with product managers, engineers, and sales teams to identify high‑value analytics opportunities.
• Mentor and upskill junior data scientists, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.
• Ensure data governance, privacy, and compliance with local regulations throughout all analytics processes.
• Present findings and strategic recommendations to senior leadership and key stakeholders.

Required Skills

• Proficiency in Python or R, with extensive experience in libraries such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit‑learn, and pandas.
• Strong command of SQL and NoSQL databases, data warehousing concepts, and big data platforms (e.g., Azure Synapse, Spark).
• Demonstrated ability to design, train, and deploy production‑grade machine learning models.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and the ability to translate business requirements into analytical solutions.
• Effective communication and storytelling skills to convey complex insights to non‑technical audiences.
• Experience with MLOps, CI/CD pipelines, and cloud services (Azure, AWS, or GCP).

Education

A Master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related discipline is required. Relevant certifications in Azure AI, Google Cloud Professional Data Engineer, or similar are advantageous.

Experience

Minimum of five years of hands‑on experience in data science roles, with at least two years in a leadership or lead capacity. Proven track record of delivering successful machine learning projects in a commercial environment, preferably within the technology or telecommunications sectors.

Salary

The competitive salary range for this position is SSP 250,000 to 400,000 per month, commensurate with experience and expertise. Performance‑based bonuses and equity incentives may also be part of the total compensation package.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision.
• Generous paid time off and public holiday schedule.
• Professional development budget for certifications, conferences, and courses.
• Access to Microsoft’s global employee assistance programs and wellness initiatives.
• Flexible working arrangements, including remote work options.

Training

• Onboarding program that includes Azure Cloud Fundamentals and Microsoft AI certifications.
• Mentorship pairing with senior data scientists across Microsoft’s global network.
• Quarterly internal hackathons to foster innovation and cross‑team collaboration.
• Continuous learning portal with curated courses on advanced analytics, ethics in AI, and data governance.

Working Environment

Microsoft Gambia offers a modern, collaborative office space in the heart of Banjul, equipped with state‑of‑the‑art technology, meeting rooms, and quiet zones for focused work. The company promotes an inclusive culture where diverse perspectives are valued, and employees are encouraged to bring their authentic selves to work. Regular team‑building activities, community outreach programs, and a strong emphasis on work‑life balance create a supportive environment for personal and professional growth.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the online portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by a technical assessment. For additional regional opportunities, you may also explore https://eritreajobsearch.com/job-vacancy-eritrea/ and https://sudanjobsearch.com/.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Microsoft Gambia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.