Data Scientist – AI Enablement

About the role

The University of Canterbury’s Digital Services team is seeking a Data Scientist to lead AI Enablement initiatives. You will turn complex data into actionable insights, supporting decision‑making across the university and delivering real‑world value.

Key responsibilities

• Build, validate, and deploy statistical and machine learning models, including regression, NLP, and clustering.
• Evaluate and implement emerging AI patterns such as Retrieval‑Augmented Generation (RAG), AI agents, and orchestration frameworks.
• Design end‑to‑end solutions with a focus on transparency, reproducibility, and performance.
• Explore and visualise datasets using Python and SQL to generate insights.
• Communicate results through reports and Power BI dashboards.
• Trial generative AI applications and contribute reusable AI templates and frameworks.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to define needs and deliver user‑centred solutions.
• Uphold ethical data practices and the university’s commitments to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant data science discipline (NZQA Level 7).
• Minimum 5 years of data engineering experience and 3 + years in data science/machine learning.
• Proficiency in Python, SQL, and cloud platforms (Azure, DataBricks, Snowflake).
• Strong communication, business acumen, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Commitment to cultural responsibility and university values; Māori language competency is an advantage.

Required skills

• Python
• SQL
• Azure
• DataBricks
• Snowflake
• Power BI
• Machine learning
• Statistical modelling
• Natural language processing (NLP)
• Retrieval‑Augmented Generation (RAG)

What we offer

• 5 weeks annual leave plus 5 university holidays.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Generous superannuation (up to 6.75% employer contribution).
• Full‑time permanent role (37.5 hours per week).
• Benefits aligned with the university’s values of Whanaungatanga, Tiakitanga, and Manaakitanga.