Junior Data Scientist – Discovery Vitality (Johannesburg)

Company: Discovery Vitality
Position: Junior Data Scientist
Business Unit: Vitality RSA
Department: Vitality Actuarial & Data Science (VADS)
Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
Job Type: Permanent | Full-Time
Industry: Financial Services | Health Insurance | Artificial Intelligence | Data Science
Posted Date: 14 July 2026

About Discovery

Discovery is a leading South African financial services organisation committed to making people healthier while enhancing and protecting their lives. Through its award-winning Vitality programme, Discovery combines behavioural science, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and healthcare innovation to create products that reward healthy living and improve customer outcomes.

The Vitality Actuarial & Data Science (VADS) team sits at the heart of this mission, using advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI to build intelligent products that serve millions of members.

Job Overview

Discovery Vitality is seeking an ambitious Junior Data Scientist to join its growing Data Science team in Johannesburg. This is not a traditional entry-level role where you’ll only prepare data or support senior analysts. Instead, you’ll actively design, build, test, and deploy machine learning solutions that directly impact customers.

Working alongside experienced Senior Data Scientists, you’ll gain exposure to modern cloud technologies, large-scale datasets, production AI systems, and real business challenges from day one.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Learning & AI Development

Build, train, evaluate, and deploy machine learning models.
Develop AI-driven solutions that improve customer engagement and personalization.
Experiment with Large Language Models (LLMs) and emerging AI technologies.
Continuously improve existing predictive models.

Data Analysis

Explore complex datasets to identify valuable insights.
Perform statistical analysis and predictive modelling.
Identify hidden trends and business opportunities.
Transform raw data into meaningful recommendations.

Product Development

Take ownership of projects from idea generation to deployment.
Build intelligent products used by millions of Discovery members.
Work closely with product managers and engineering teams.
Deliver scalable and production-ready solutions.

Cloud & Data Platforms

You’ll work with modern cloud technologies including:

Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
Vertex AI
BigQuery
Azure Databricks
Cloud-based Machine Learning infrastructure

Software Engineering

Write clean, maintainable Python code.
Use version control and collaborative development practices.
Monitor model performance after deployment.
Improve system reliability and scalability.

Collaboration

Work alongside Data Scientists, Engineers, Actuaries, and Business Teams.
Present technical findings to non-technical stakeholders.
Share knowledge and contribute to team learning.
Document models and processes for future development.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants should have:

2–4 years’ experience in Data Science, Machine Learning, AI, or a related quantitative field.
Degree in one of the following:
- Data Science
- Computer Science
- Statistics
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Actuarial Science
- Engineering
- Or another quantitative discipline.
Strong Python programming skills.
Advanced SQL knowledge.
Understanding of machine learning algorithms.
Knowledge of data modelling and analytics.
Exposure to deploying machine learning models.
Passion for Artificial Intelligence and innovation.

Candidates with strong self-taught experience and an impressive project portfolio are also encouraged to apply.

Technical Skills

Successful candidates should possess experience with:

Python
SQL
Machine Learning
Predictive Analytics
Data Visualisation
Statistics
Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
Vertex AI
BigQuery
Azure Databricks
Git
Cloud Computing
MLOps fundamentals
Large Language Models (LLMs)

Soft Skills

Discovery is looking for individuals who are:

Curious and eager to learn.
Innovative problem-solvers.
Analytical thinkers.
Self-motivated.
Highly accountable.
Team-oriented.
Adaptable.
Strong communicators.
Passionate about technology and data.

Career Growth

This role offers outstanding career development opportunities, including:

Mentorship from experienced Senior Data Scientists.
Exposure to enterprise-scale AI solutions.
Hands-on experience with cloud-native machine learning.
Opportunities to own products from concept to deployment.
Continuous learning through real-world business challenges.
Career progression into Senior Data Scientist and AI Specialist roles.

What Success Looks Like

Within your first six months, you will be contributing to live AI products used by Discovery members.

After one year, you’ll be confidently managing your own data science projects, deploying production-ready machine learning models, and helping shape innovative products that improve customer health and financial wellbeing.

Why Join Discovery Vitality?

Working at Discovery means you’ll enjoy:

Competitive market-related salary.
Exposure to cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence technologies.
Modern cloud computing platforms.
Meaningful work that positively impacts millions of lives.
Professional development and continuous learning.
Collaborative and innovative work culture.
Opportunity to work with one of South Africa’s leading data science teams.

Employment Equity

Discovery is committed to Employment Equity and encourages applications from suitably qualified candidates, including persons living with disabilities.

Application Tips

To increase your chances of success:

Highlight Python, SQL, and Machine Learning projects on your CV.
Include links to GitHub, Kaggle, or portfolio projects if available.
Showcase experience with cloud platforms, AI models, and data analytics.
Demonstrate problem-solving ability through measurable achievements.

Closing Date: Not specified. Early applications are encouraged as Discovery may close the vacancy once a suitable candidate is identified.

Apply Here