Data Scientist – Transforming Agriculture Through Data Insights at One Acre Fund

Job Overview

Are you an exceptional Data Scientist with a passion for leveraging data to revolutionize organizational strategies? One Acre Fund, a global leader in transforming smallholder farming, is seeking a talented professional to join our Tupande Digital Team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the improvement of Tupande’s strategic direction by building and analyzing data products. As a Data Scientist, you’ll play a crucial role in translating data into valuable insights that drive informed decision-making, enhance customer solutions, and optimize operations.

About One Acre Fund

One Acre Fund, established in 2006, empowers over one million smallholder farmers across six core countries in Africa. Our diverse team of 8,000+ professionals is committed to providing quality farm supplies on credit, agricultural training, and strategic support. With an average increase of 50% in farmers’ harvests, our mission is to make farmers more prosperous through innovative solutions.

Key Responsibilities

As a Data Scientist at Tupande, you will:

• Contribute to the development and implementation of Tupande’s Data Science strategy.
• Act as the main link between Tupande’s business, customers, and technology solutions.
• Lead the strategic design, delivery, and maintenance of data science work providing meaningful insights.
• Own end-to-end responsibility for Tupande’s data science initiatives and ensure alignment with organizational goals.
• Foster a data-driven culture within Tupande through impactful data science work.

Qualifications

Knowledge and Education:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a quantitative field (statistics, mathematics, data science, etc.).

Technical Skills:

• Proficient in data querying languages (e.g., SQL) and scripting languages (e.g., Python).
• Experience in advanced systems, including machine learning and artificial intelligence.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate business needs into technical solutions.
• Demonstrated expertise in data presentations with visualization tools.

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years in a data scientist or similar role.
• Proven experience in setting and advancing business/project strategies.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to oversee diverse data science projects.

Other:

• Fluency in English.

Career Growth and Development

At One Acre Fund, we are committed to constant learning and development. You will have access to mentorship, training programs, and regular performance feedback. Our bi-annual career reviews and discussions on your aspirations ensure a rewarding and long-term career.

Location and Benefits

This position is based in Amsterdam, Netherlands (with mandatory quarterly in-person visits to our Kenya headquarters) or Kakamega, Kenya. We offer health insurance, housing, and comprehensive benefits.

Eligibility

This role is open to candidates with existing working rights in the Netherlands/Kenya.

Application Deadline

Apply by January 4, 2024.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI), and Anti-Racism

We are committed to building a culture where all staff feel consistently valued, represented, and connected. DEI and anti-racism are integral to our mission, ensuring our team thrives and achieves exceptional impact for the farmers we serve.

10 Expert Tips to Be a Successful Applicant

1. Craft a Targeted Resume:
   • Tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences related to data science.
   • Provide quantifiable achievements to showcase your impact.
2. Showcase Your Technical Skills:
   • Clearly outline your proficiency in data querying languages, scripting languages, and advanced systems.
   • Highlight specific projects where you applied machine learning and artificial intelligence.
3. Demonstrate Analytical Abilities:
   • Share examples of translating business needs into technical solutions.
   • Include instances where you presented data-driven insights using visualization tools.
4. Emphasize Project Management Experience:
   • Detail your experience in overseeing data science projects, highlighting their scope and complexity.
   • Showcase your ability to lead improvements and drive strategy adoption.
5. Communication Skills Matter:
   • Articulate your data science work effectively, both in writing and in person.
   • Provide examples of successfully communicating complex concepts to diverse audiences.
6. Global Collaboration:
   • Illustrate your experience working collaboratively with diverse partners to advance your data science work.
   • Emphasize adaptability in a multicultural and evolving environment.
7. Strategic Thinking:
   • Demonstrate your expertise in setting and advancing business/project strategies.
   • Showcase instances where you responded effectively to evolving situations.
8. Own Your Career Growth:
   • Express your commitment to continuous learning and development.
   • Share your aspirations and how you envision contributing to One Acre Fund’s growth.
9. Fluency in English:
   • Highlight your proficiency in English, an essential requirement for the role.
   • Provide examples of clear communication in a professional context.
10. Demonstrate Cultural Sensitivity:
    • Emphasize your experience working across multiple cultures.
    • Showcase your commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does the application process involve?

The application process includes submitting your resume and cover letter online. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessments and interviews.

2. Can I apply if I don’t have working rights in the Netherlands/Kenya?

This role is only open to candidates with existing working rights in the Netherlands/Kenya.

3. Are there opportunities for career growth within One Acre Fund?

Yes, One Acre Fund is dedicated to providing continuous learning opportunities and career growth for its employees.

4. How often are career reviews conducted?

Career reviews are conducted every six months, providing opportunities for goal setting and career development discussions.

5. Is there a preferred start date for this role?

The preferred start date for this position is as soon as possible.

6. What benefits does One Acre Fund offer?

One Acre Fund offers health insurance, housing, and comprehensive benefits to its employees.

7. Is English fluency mandatory for this role?

Yes, fluency in English is a requirement for this position.

8. How diverse is One Acre Fund’s workplace?

One Acre Fund is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a workplace where all staff feel valued and represented.

9. Can I apply if I don’t have a quantitative degree?

A bachelor’s degree or higher in a quantitative field is preferred for this role.

10. What distinguishes a successful applicant?

A successful applicant will demonstrate technical proficiency, strategic thinking, effective communication, and a commitment to our mission.

One Acre Fund – Transforming Lives, Empowering Farmers

Join us in our mission to make farmers more prosperous and create sustainable impact across the globe.

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Cover Letter Sample: Data Scientist Position at One Acre Fund

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the Data Scientist position at One Acre Fund, as advertised. With a Bachelor’s degree in Data Science and over five years of hands-on experience, I bring a strong foundation in statistical analysis, machine learning, and strategic data-driven decision-making.

In my previous role at XYZ Tech, I successfully led a cross-functional team in implementing data science strategies that resulted in a 30% improvement in operational efficiency. I am excited about the opportunity at One Acre Fund to contribute my skills to furthering the organization’s mission of empowering smallholder farmers.

My proficiency in data querying languages such as SQL, coupled with my ability to communicate complex insights to diverse audiences, positions me as a strong candidate for this role. I am particularly drawn to One Acre Fund’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and I am eager to contribute to the organization’s impactful work.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my skills and experiences align with the goals of One Acre Fund.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

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