Director of Data Science

Main mission: The Director of Data Science sets the direction for CG Labs' data science function. This role leverages environmental data and AI technologies to improve coral restoration techniques and measure project impact, and works with other leaders on organization-wide decisions related to data and technology.

Responsibilities

• Data science strategy and execution:

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Define and own the data science roadmap for CG Labs, aligned with the organization's scientific and operational priorities;

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Identify and deploy AI, machine learning, and 3D modeling methods relevant to coral restoration and environmental data collection;

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Maintain technology monitoring on AI, IoT, and data science tools applicable to the field, and make recommendations to the CTO.

• Data platforms and tools management:

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Own the development and maintenance of platforms for collecting and analyzing environmental data on coral reefs;

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Ensure the quality, reliability, and security of collected data;

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Make decisions on tools and cloud infrastructure needed for data processing.

• Technical project management:

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Lead data/AI projects from design to implementation, ensuring deadlines and budgets are met;

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Design eco-friendly, low-impact technological solutions;

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Develop metrics and tools to measure and maximize the impact of restoration efforts.

• Cross-team collaboration and influence:

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Collaborate with the science, marketing, and communications teams to integrate data into their activities (data visualization, educational tools, interactive applications);

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Regularly report progress on data science projects to the CTO and represent CG Labs' data strategy in cross-functional planning;

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Build a culture of analytical rigor and continuous improvement across CG Labs.

• Team leadership and development:

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Manage and grow the CG Labs data science team, including direct reports such as data scientists;

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Lead recruitment, skill development, and career progression for the team;

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Develop technological partnerships with universities, businesses, or specialized startups on data/AI topics.

Required skills

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Deep expertise in data science, machine learning, and environmental data analysis;

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Strong command of cloud tools and data security/management practices;

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Proven ability to lead technical projects end-to-end;

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Strong leadership and team management skills;

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Excellent communication skills, able to make technical topics accessible to non-technical audiences;

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Strategic vision and ability to anticipate technological trends in data/AI;

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Strong interest in environmental issues and marine conservation;

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Fluent in English and French.

Qualification level

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Significant experience in data science / applied AI, including team management, ideally with exposure to environmental, geospatial, or sensor-derived data (IoT, drones).

Location: This position can be based either at Coral Gardeners headquarters in Moorea, French Polynesia, or in California, with frequent travel to French Polynesia required.