AI Ethicist and Governance Lead

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Professional development funding

Retirement savings plan

Hybrid work model

Collaborative culture

Job summary

Placements24 client seeks an experienced AI Ethicist and Governance Lead in Polokwane, Limpopo, SA to ensure responsible AI development and regulatory alignment in a hybrid setting. You will shape ethical frameworks and governance policies across the AI lifecycle, engaging with regulators and researchers to promote transparent, trustworthy AI practices.

The role requires an advanced degree with 5+ years in AI ethics, strong policy development, and excellent communication.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a relevant field with strong AI ethics focus.
• At least 5 years in AI ethics, governance, or related area.
• Experience in policy development and regulatory awareness.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement and oversee AI ethics framework and governance policies.
• Conduct ethical risk assessments and mitigation recommendations.
• Advise development teams on ethics across the AI lifecycle.
• Stay updated on global AI regulations and standards.
• Create training materials and run workshops on ethical AI.
• Engage regulators, academics and peers on AI ethics topics.
• Establish accountability and transparency mechanisms in AI systems.
• Promote responsible innovation aligned with company values.
• Monitor societal impact and advise on proactive measures.
• Facilitate discussions on complex ethical dilemmas in AI.

Skills

Advanced degree in Ethics/Philosophy/L

5+ years AI ethics experience

AI/ML concepts understanding

Policy frameworks development

Analytical thinking

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Master's or PhD in Ethics/Philosophy/Law/Public Policy/CS with AI focus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering organization in the AI & Emerging Technologies space, is seeking an experienced AI Ethicist and Governance Lead to join their team in Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA . This vital role focuses on ensuring that AI technologies are developed and deployed responsibly, ethically, and in compliance with relevant regulations and societal values. You will be instrumental in shaping ethical frameworks, establishing governance policies, and promoting responsible AI practices across the organization. The ideal candidate will possess a unique blend of technical understanding, ethical reasoning, and policy development expertise. Working in a hybrid capacity, you will engage with diverse teams to embed ethical considerations into the AI lifecycle. This is a critical position for an organization committed to building trustworthy AI.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and oversee the organization's AI ethics framework and governance policies.
• Conduct ethical risk assessments for AI systems and provide recommendations for mitigation strategies.
• Advise development teams on ethical considerations throughout the AI lifecycle, from design to deployment and monitoring.
• Stay abreast of global regulations, standards, and best practices in AI ethics and governance.
• Develop training materials and conduct workshops to promote ethical AI awareness and practices within the company.
• Engage with external stakeholders, including regulators, academics, and industry peers, on AI ethics topics.
• Establish mechanisms for accountability and transparency in AI systems.
• Contribute to the responsible innovation process, ensuring AI initiatives align with ethical principles and company values.
• Monitor the societal impact of AI technologies and advise on proactive measures.
• Facilitate discussions and drive consensus on complex ethical dilemmas related to AI.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in a relevant field such as Ethics, Philosophy, Law, Public Policy, Computer Science, or a related interdisciplinary area with a strong focus on AI ethics.
• 5+ years of experience in AI ethics, responsible AI, technology governance, or a related field.
• Demonstrated understanding of AI/ML concepts and their societal implications.
• Experience in developing policy frameworks, guidelines, or standards.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence diverse stakeholders.
• Familiarity with current AI regulations and ethical debate topics.
• Experience in facilitating workshops and training sessions.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, collaborating with both remote and in-office colleagues.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa and reside within commuting distance of Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package with regular performance reviews and potential for salary increases.
• Comprehensive health insurance benefits are provided.
• Employees are granted ample paid time off, including vacation and sick days.
• The company supports continuous professional development through funding for courses, certifications, and attendance at relevant conferences and forums.
• This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the ethical landscape of AI within a growing organization.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions is available.
• The hybrid work model provides flexibility and supports work-life balance.
• A collaborative and inclusive work culture is fostered.