Principal Data Scientist
Hybrid – Cork | Contract | €680 per day
Role Overview
We 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 Responsibilities
Lead the end-to-end development of advanced analytics and machine learning solutions that address complex, high-value business challenges
Define modelling approaches, evaluation frameworks, and experimentation standards to ensure analytical rigour and measurable impact
Architect scalable ML systems from data exploration and feature engineering through to deployment and performance monitoring
Collaborate with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to identify strategic opportunities where data science can create competitive advantage
Translate ambiguous business problems into structured analytical frameworks and actionable recommendations
Establish and embed best practices across the data science lifecycle, including experimentation, validation, governance, and documentation
Drive adoption of data-driven decision-making by clearly communicating insights to executive and non-technical audiences
Mentor and develop data scientists, fostering innovation, technical excellence, and continuous improvement
Stay at the forefront of emerging AI, machine learning, and statistical techniques to maintain technical leadership
Technical Expertise & Skills
Deep expertise in advanced statistical modelling, machine learning algorithms, and optimisation techniques
Strong programming capability in Python and/or R, with extensive experience using modern data science libraries and frameworks
Hands-on experience with deep learning platforms such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or JAX
Strong understanding of causal inference, hypothesis testing, and experimental design
Experience productionising models using MLOps best practices, including CI/CD pipelines, monitoring, and lifecycle management
Advanced skills in feature engineering, model tuning, performance evaluation, and interpretability techniques
Ability to design end-to-end analytical solutions that balance innovation with practical business outcomes
Experience working with large-scale datasets in cloud-based environments
Strong commercial awareness and ability to align technical solutions with organisational strategy
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence executive stakeholders
Demonstrated leadership capability in guiding technical teams and shaping analytical strategy
Experience & Qualifications
Master's degree or PhD in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, or a related quantitative discipline
8+ years of experience in data science roles, including at least 3 years in a senior or principal capacity
Proven success delivering high-impact analytical or machine learning initiatives in production environments
Experience influencing strategic decisions through data-driven insights
Evidence of technical thought leadership (publications, conference presentations, patents, or industry recognition) is advantageous