Principal Data ScientistHybrid – Cork | Contract | €680 per dayRole OverviewWe are seeking a Principal Data Scientist to lead the delivery of advanced analytics and machine learning solutions that directly influence strategic decision-making and long-term business performance.This is a senior leadership role combining deep technical expertise with strong commercial acumen. You will shape the organisation's data science direction, define standards and methodologies, and oversee the development of scalable, production-grade models. As a recognised subject matter expert, you will work closely with executive stakeholders while mentoring and elevating the broader data science function.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the end-to-end development of advanced analytics and machine learning solutions that address complex, high-value business challengesDefine modelling approaches, evaluation frameworks, and experimentation standards to ensure analytical rigour and measurable impactArchitect scalable ML systems from data exploration and feature engineering through to deployment and performance monitoringCollaborate with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to identify strategic opportunities where data science can create competitive advantageTranslate ambiguous business problems into structured analytical frameworks and actionable recommendationsEstablish and embed best practices across the data science lifecycle, including experimentation, validation, governance, and documentationDrive adoption of data-driven decision-making by clearly communicating insights to executive and non-technical audiencesMentor and develop data scientists, fostering innovation, technical excellence, and continuous improvementStay at the forefront of emerging AI, machine learning, and statistical techniques to maintain technical leadershipTechnical Expertise & SkillsDeep expertise in advanced statistical modelling, machine learning algorithms, and optimisation techniquesStrong programming capability in Python and/or R, with extensive experience using modern data science libraries and frameworksHands-on experience with deep learning platforms such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or JAXStrong understanding of causal inference, hypothesis testing, and experimental designExperience productionising models using MLOps best practices, including CI/CD pipelines, monitoring, and lifecycle managementAdvanced skills in feature engineering, model tuning, performance evaluation, and interpretability techniquesAbility to design end-to-end analytical solutions that balance innovation with practical business outcomesExperience working with large-scale datasets in cloud-based environmentsStrong commercial awareness and ability to align technical solutions with organisational strategyExcellent communication skills, with the ability to influence executive stakeholdersDemonstrated leadership capability in guiding technical teams and shaping analytical strategyExperience & QualificationsMaster's degree or PhD in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, or a related quantitative discipline8+ years of experience in data science roles, including at least 3 years in a senior or principal capacityProven success delivering high-impact analytical or machine learning initiatives in production environmentsExperience influencing strategic decisions through data-driven insightsEvidence of technical thought leadership (publications, conference presentations, patents, or industry recognition) is advantageous