Data Science Lead Job Vacancy in Nairobi, Kenya – Technology

Job Description

Position: Data Science Lead

Company: Microsoft Kenya

Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Experience: 5+ years in data science, machine learning, analytics

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

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Technology

Department: Data & Analytics

Salary: SSP 250,000 – 350,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Microsoft Kenya is a leading global technology company delivering innovative cloud, AI, and productivity solutions across East Africa. With a strong commitment to digital transformation, Microsoft Kenya empowers businesses, governments, and individuals to achieve more through cutting‑edge platforms such as Azure, Microsoft 365, and Power Platform. As part of the broader Microsoft ecosystem, the Nairobi office collaborates with regional partners, startups, and academic institutions to drive technology adoption and skill development. The company’s inclusive culture, focus on sustainability, and investment in local talent make it a top destination for professionals seeking impactful careers in the technology sector. This role contributes directly to Microsoft’s mission of empowering every person and organization on the planet to achieve more, while supporting Kenya Jobs, Jobs in Kenya, and broader Career Opportunities in Kenya.

Job Overview

The Data Science Lead will spearhead the design, development, and deployment of advanced analytics and machine learning solutions that address complex business challenges for Microsoft’s enterprise customers in Kenya and the wider region. Reporting to the Head of Data & Analytics, the successful candidate will lead a multidisciplinary team of data scientists, engineers, and analysts, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on high‑impact projects, leverage Microsoft’s state‑of‑the‑art cloud infrastructure, and shape the data strategy for a fast‑growing market. For more information about Microsoft Kenya and its initiatives, visit https://kenyajobsearch.com/. The role is a key component of the company’s hiring in Kenya strategy and aligns with the growing demand for skilled data professionals.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end‑to‑end lifecycle of data science projects, from problem definition and data acquisition to model deployment and monitoring.
• Collaborate with product managers, engineers, and business stakeholders to translate business objectives into analytical solutions.
• Mentor and develop a high‑performing team of data scientists and analysts, promoting best practices in coding, experimentation, and documentation.
• Design and implement scalable machine learning pipelines on Azure Machine Learning and Databricks.
• Ensure data governance, security, and compliance standards are met in all analytical workflows.
• Present insights and recommendations to senior leadership and external clients in clear, actionable formats.
• Stay abreast of emerging AI/ML technologies and evaluate their applicability to Microsoft’s product portfolio.

Required Skills

• Proficiency in Python or R, with extensive experience in libraries such as scikit‑learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Spark.
• Strong knowledge of statistical modeling, time‑series analysis, natural language processing, and deep learning techniques.
• Hands‑on experience with Azure services including Azure Synapse, Azure Data Factory, and Azure Cognitive Services.
• Excellent problem‑solving abilities and a data‑driven mindset.
• Effective communication skills to convey complex technical concepts to non‑technical audiences.
• Leadership experience managing cross‑functional teams in a fast‑paced environment.

Education

A Master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related discipline is required. Relevant certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate are highly desirable.

Experience

Minimum of five years of professional experience in data science, with at least two years in a leadership or lead role. Demonstrated success in delivering production‑grade machine learning solutions for enterprise clients is essential.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from SSP 250,000 to SSP 350,000 per month, commensurate with experience and expertise. The package includes performance‑based bonuses and equity incentives aligned with Microsoft’s global compensation framework.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision.
• Generous paid time off and parental leave policies.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
• Professional development budget for certifications, conferences, and training.
• Access to Microsoft employee discount programs and wellness initiatives.

Training

• Onboarding program featuring Azure cloud fundamentals and Microsoft’s data platform ecosystem.
• Continuous learning pathways through Microsoft Learn, internal labs, and mentorship networks.
• Opportunities to attend global AI/ML conferences and internal hackathons.

Working Environment

Microsoft Kenya offers a modern, collaborative workspace located in Nairobi’s vibrant tech hub. Employees benefit from flexible work arrangements, including hybrid remote options, state‑of‑the‑art meeting rooms, and access to cutting‑edge hardware. The culture emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and community impact, encouraging employees to participate in outreach programs that promote STEM education across Kenya.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit an online application through the Microsoft Careers portal, attaching an updated resume and a cover letter outlining relevant achievements. Shortlisted applicants will undergo a technical assessment followed by virtual interviews with the hiring manager and senior leadership. The recruitment timeline typically spans three to four weeks from application submission.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Microsoft Kenya 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. This commitment supports the broader goal of fostering Employment in Kenya and advancing inclusive hiring practices across the region.