AI Automation Engineer

Network Recruitment; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 700,000; Full time

Job summary

Network Recruitment is seeking an AI Automation Engineer to join its technology-driven team. The role targets recent graduates or early-career professionals passionate about software development, AI, automation, and solving real-world business challenges.

You will partner across Sales, HR, Finance, Support, Production, and Marketing to identify automation opportunities, build AI-powered solutions, and contribute to an internal AI platform.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in CS/Software Eng/IS or related field.
• 3–5 years in software development, automation, data engineering, or related discipline.
• Experience with Python and at least one AI/LLM framework.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with departments to document business processes and identify automation opportunities.
• Develop, test, and deploy AI-powered automation agents and workflows.
• Maintain integrations with ERP, CRM, and ticketing systems.
• Ensure data privacy, security, and governance across solutions.
• Produce technical and process documentation.

Skills

Python programming

Git

RESTful APIs

AI/LLM exposure

Agile/Scrum

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science / Software Engineering / Information Systems / related field

Tools

Docker

LiteLLM

Job description

An innovative technology-driven organisation is seeking a motivated and curious AI Automation Engineer to join its growing engineering team.

This opportunity is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career professional with a passion for software development, artificial intelligence, automation, and solving real-world business challenges. You will work closely with teams across the business to identify opportunities for process improvement, develop intelligent automation solutions, and contribute to the ongoing development of an internal AI platform.

This role offers a unique opportunity to gain exposure to both cutting-edge technology and core business operations, providing a strong foundation for a long-term career in AI, automation, and software engineering.

About the Role

As an AI Automation Engineer, you will work alongside experienced engineers and business stakeholders to understand existing processes, identify automation opportunities, and help build AI-powered solutions that improve efficiency, accuracy, and productivity.

You will contribute to the development, deployment, and support of automations while gaining hands-on experience with modern AI technologies, software engineering practices, platform operations, and systems integration.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with departments such as Sales, Human Resources, Finance, Technical Support, Production, and Marketing to understand and document business processes.
• Identify opportunities where AI and automation can reduce manual effort, improve accuracy, and streamline workflows.
• Develop, test, and deploy automation agents and workflows on an internal AI platform.
• Assist in the development and maintenance of AI platform components, including integrations, retrieval services, and user-facing tools.
• Build and maintain integrations with ERP, CRM, ticketing, and knowledge management systems.
• Monitor platform performance, usage, and operational health, resolving routine issues and escalating where necessary.
• Create and maintain test cases and evaluation frameworks to ensure solution quality and reliability.
• Apply data privacy, security, governance, and access control standards across all solutions.
• Produce clear technical and process documentation.
• Provide first-line support to users and gather feedback for ongoing improvements.
• Participate in code reviews, design discussions, and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
• Stay informed about emerging trends in AI, automation, and software engineering.
• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Information Systems, Electronic Engineering, or a related field.
• 3 to 5 years' experience in software development, automation, data engineering, or a related discipline.
• Relevant academic projects, internships, or practical experience will be considered.
• Experience with Python programming.
• Exposure to at least one AI or Large Language Model (LLM) framework, API, or technology through academic, personal, or professional projects.
• Working knowledge of:
• Version control systems (Git)
• Relational databases
• RESTful APIs
• Understanding of software development methodologies, including Agile and Scrum.

Technical Skills

Required

• Knowledge of software engineering principles and best practices.
• API and systems integration.
• Business process analysis and workflow mapping.
• Testing, troubleshooting, and documentation.
• Understanding of data security, privacy, and access control principles.

Advantageous

Exposure to any of the following technologies or similar toolsets would be beneficial:

• LiteLLM
• Qdrant
• Langfuse
• Docker
• vLLM
• Containerisation technologies
• Cloud or on-premises infrastructure platforms

Personal Attributes

We are looking for someone who is:

• Curious about technology and business processes.
• Passionate about AI and automation.
• Self-motivated and eager to learn.
• Analytical and solution-oriented.
• Adaptable in a fast-paced environment.
• Detail-focused with a commitment to quality.
• A strong team player who collaborates effectively across departments.
• Able to communicate confidently with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Professional, dependable, and accountable.
• Proactive in identifying opportunities for improvement.

What You'll Gain

• Exposure to a wide range of business functions and operational processes.
• Hands-on experience with AI applications, automation platforms, and software engineering.
• Mentorship and guidance from experienced engineers.
• Opportunities to work with emerging technologies and modern AI toolchains.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment that values innovation and continuous learning.
• Career development opportunities within a growing and forward-thinking organisation.