Junior AI Engineer

Network Recruitment; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Job summary

Network Recruitment in Johannesburg is seeking a motivated Junior AI Engineer to join its engineering team. You will work with experienced engineers and business stakeholders to build AI-powered automation solutions and contribute to the ongoing development of an internal AI platform.

You will gain hands-on experience with Python, AI technologies, APIs, and systems integration while collaborating across functions to deliver value and learn best practices in software engineering.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field.
• 0–2 years' experience in software development, automation, data engineering, or related discipline.
• Experience with Python programming.
• Exposure to at least one AI or LLM framework, API, or technology.
• Working knowledge of Git, relational databases, RESTful APIs, and Agile/Scrum.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with departments to understand and document business processes.
• Identify opportunities where AI and automation can reduce manual effort and streamline workflows.
• Develop, test, and deploy automation agents and workflows on an internal AI platform.
• Assist in development and maintenance of AI platform components, including integrations and retrieval services.
• Build and maintain integrations with ERP, CRM, ticketing, and knowledge management systems.
• Monitor platform performance and resolve routine issues; escalate as needed.
• Create and maintain test cases and evaluation frameworks for quality.

Skills

Python

Git

REST APIs

Relational databases

Agile/Scrum

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Docker

Containerisation technologies

Job description

An innovative technology-driven organisation is seeking a motivated and curious Junior AI 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 a Junior AI 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.
• 0 to 2 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

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.

If you're excited about the potential of AI and automation, enjoy solving problems, and want to build a career at the intersection of technology and business, we'd love to hear from you.