AI Research Engineer - Robotics & Automation

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 76,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health and wellness benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced AI Research Engineer to join a robotics team in a hybrid role combining remote work with on‑site collaboration. You will develop AI for perception, navigation, and control, leveraging ROS, DL frameworks, and CV tools to advance automated robotic systems.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s or PhD and has a proven track record in AI research for robotics, with strong Python/C++ skills and experience with Gazebo/Isaac Sim for simulation.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in CS, Robotics, AI, or a related field.
• Proven AI research and development experience for robotics.
• Strong Python and C++ programming skills.
• Experience with ROS and robotics frameworks.
• Proficiency with DL frameworks and CV libraries.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement AI algorithms for robotic perception, navigation and control.
• Integrate ML models into robotic systems and simulate for testing.
• Work with sensors (camera, LiDAR, IMU) for state estimation.
• Collaborate with hardware and software teams to ensure integration.
• Document research findings and publish results when possible.

Skills

Python

C++

ROS

Deep learning

Computer vision

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in CS/Robotics

Tools

Gazebo

Isaac Sim

TensorFlow

PyTorch

OpenCV

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading innovator in robotics and automation, and we are seeking an experienced AI Research Engineer to join our team in Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA. This hybrid role offers the best of both worlds: the flexibility of remote work combined with collaborative opportunities at our advanced research facility. You will be instrumental in developing and implementing intelligent algorithms for robotic systems, focusing on areas such as perception, navigation, and control. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge AI research that drives real‑world applications in automation and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and test AI algorithms for robotic perception, decision‑making, and control.
• Develop and integrate machine learning models (e.g., deep learning, reinforcement learning) into robotic systems.
• Work with sensor data (e.g., cameras, LiDAR, IMUs) for environment understanding and state estimation.
• Develop simulation environments for testing and validating AI algorithms.
• Collaborate with hardware and software engineers to ensure seamless integration of AI components.
• Conduct research into novel AI techniques applicable to robotics and automation challenges.
• Document research findings, algorithms, and system designs.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in AI, robotics, and related fields.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Robotics, AI, or a related field.
• Proven experience in AI research and development, specifically applied to robotics.
• Strong programming skills in Python and C++.
• Experience with robotics frameworks like ROS (Robot Operating System).
• Proficiency with deep learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch) and computer vision libraries (OpenCV).
• Familiarity with control theory and state estimation techniques.
• Experience with simulation tools (e.g., Gazebo, Isaac Sim).
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and ability to work in a collaborative, cross‑functional team environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance‑based incentives.
• Hybrid work model providing flexibility.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth, conference attendance, and publication.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art lab facilities and robotics equipment.
• Engaging projects at the forefront of AI and robotics innovation.
• Collaborative and supportive work culture.
• Generous paid time off.