Senior Data Scientist📣 Job Ad

About the Role

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) is seeking a Senior Data Scientist to join its team in Makkah, specifically in Jeddah and Makkah cities. This fixed-term position requires 5-10 years of experience in advanced statistical and data science work. The role focuses on leveraging data to support evidence-based research, inform management decisions, and enhance operational strategies and country-level dialogues.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake advanced statistical and data science work, including compiling, harmonizing, developing, and disseminating key statistical indicators and predictive models.
• Ensure the IsDB website is updated with high-quality data and analytical insights on the bank's interventions and member countries.
• Develop and maintain robust, well-governed databases and data pipelines using modern data technologies and advanced analytical methods, including machine learning on platforms like Microsoft Azure.
• Promote the adoption of innovative data techniques across the IsDB Group and its Member Countries.
• Coordinate with regional and international statistical agencies to align with global statistical standards and initiatives.
• Contribute to the Division's annual work plans, programs, and activities, as well as the development and implementation of strategies, policies, and procedures for the IsDB Institute.
• Apply and deploy AI and Machine Learning techniques in data management, analysis, and quality control within Microsoft Azure services.
• Design, deploy, and maintain scalable AI solutions, including machine learning models and AI-enabled dashboards.
• Proactively identify and integrate new datasets relevant to macroeconomic, development, and institutional analysis.
• Compile data from Member Countries and other sources to produce key indicators and aggregates, automating ingestion, transformation, and standardization processes.
• Develop methods for organizing data, focusing on macroeconomic analysis for sustainable development and supporting the creation of centralized data repositories.
• Validate data from various sources to ensure accuracy, consistency, and comparability using automated quality checks and documented procedures.
• Maintain and monitor databases to ensure accuracy and functionality, minimizing operational risks.
• Respond to demands for new datasets, developing secure data access services and self-service analytical tools.
• Provide statistical capacity development support to less developed member countries.
• Contribute to the preparation of data for the Bank’s Annual Report, research papers, and other institutional knowledge products.
• Design, develop, and maintain full-stack analytical solutions, including data science, front-end dashboards, backend APIs, and cloud deployment.
• Contribute to the design and implementation of cloud-based data architecture, including Azure Data Lake structures and API-based data access.
• Develop and maintain secure, scalable, and reusable data services for controlled access to curated datasets.
• Support the modernization of the IsDB Group’s data ecosystem by translating business requirements into technical solutions.
• Guide and facilitate knowledge transfer of analyses and findings within the IsDB Group and externally.
• Contribute to and coordinate annual and periodic events conducted by the IsDB Institute.
• Participate in the preparation of statistical outputs, publications, and releases.
• Develop and contribute to relevant internal and external training, conferences, and activities for advocacy and knowledge building.
• Report IsDB operational data on relevant Global Datasets and Global Reports.
• Organize statistical events and capacity development initiatives.
• Prepare periodic and thematic statistical reports for internal and external parties.
• Coordinate with stakeholders to present reports and publications related to the Division's programs.
• Mentor data scientists, guiding them in complex data projects and fostering collaboration.
• Lead and contribute to strategic projects leveraging innovative data science methods.
• Perform other duties as may be assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

• Required experience: 5-10 years in advanced statistical and data science work.
• Proficiency in advanced visualization tools and programming languages such as Python, R, JavaScript, etc.
• Experience with modern web technologies and cloud-based analytics tools.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Azure services, including Azure Data Lake, Azure Functions, App Service, and DevOps-based deployment workflows.
• Experience in designing, deploying, and maintaining AI solutions and machine learning models.
• Knowledge of international statistical standards and best practices.
• Experience in developing and maintaining data pipelines, APIs, and dashboards.
• Understanding of macroeconomic analysis and sustainable development goals.

Work Environment and Type

This is a fixed-term position located within the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) in Makkah, with specific work locations in Jeddah and Makkah cities. The role involves collaboration with various departments and external agencies.