Lead AI Engineer - Autonomous Systems

Placements24; Kempton Park; Remote; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Remote-first culture

Generous leave

Continuous learning

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead AI Engineer specializing in autonomous systems. This fully remote role will drive design, development, and deployment of AI solutions for autonomous vehicles, robotics, and intelligent automation.

You will lead a team, set technical roadmaps, and collaborate across hardware, software, and product groups to ensure safe, scalable AI deployments. You will apply deep knowledge of perception, planning, and control, plus experience with TensorFlow, PyTorch, and ROS.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, AI, or closely related field.
• 5+ years of experience in AI for autonomous systems (self-driving cars, drones, robotics).
• Deep understanding of AI/ML techniques: deep learning, reinforcement learning, probabilistic robotics, CV.
• Proficiency in C++, Python; experience with TensorFlow, PyTorch, ROS.

Responsibilities

• Lead architecture and development of AI algorithms for autonomous systems (perception, sensor fusion, planning, control).
• Design, implement, test ML models for real-time decision making and adaptive behavior.
• Oversee end-to-end AI lifecycle from prototyping to deployment and validation.
• Mentor a team of AI engineers and researchers.
• Collaborate with hardware, software, and product teams for integration.

Skills

Leadership

Python

C++

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Master's or PhD in CS/Robotics/AI

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

ROS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking leader in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, is looking for a highly experienced Lead AI Engineer specializing in Autonomous Systems. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute from anywhere while being an integral part of our innovative team. You will spearhead the design, development, and deployment of advanced AI solutions for autonomous vehicles, robotics, and intelligent automation. This role is crucial for driving our research and product development forward, tackling complex challenges in perception, decision-making, and control. We are committed to fostering a remote-first culture, providing the necessary tools and support for seamless collaboration and productivity. If you are passionate about shaping the future of autonomous technology and thrive in a challenging, results-oriented environment, this is the opportunity for you. Your expertise will be pivotal in creating intelligent systems that operate safely and efficiently in diverse environments. This role demands a blend of deep technical knowledge, strategic thinking, and leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architecture and development of AI algorithms for autonomous systems, including perception, sensor fusion, path planning, and control.
• Design, implement, and test machine learning models for real-time decision-making and adaptive behaviors.
• Oversee the end-to-end AI development lifecycle, from prototyping and simulation to deployment and validation.
• Manage and mentor a team of talented AI engineers and researchers, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
• Collaborate closely with hardware engineers, software developers, and product teams to ensure seamless integration of AI components.
• Define technical roadmaps and strategy for autonomous system development.
• Ensure the robustness, safety, and reliability of AI-driven autonomous solutions.
• Conduct performance analysis, identify bottlenecks, and optimize AI models for efficiency and scalability.
• Stay at the cutting edge of research in AI, robotics, and autonomous systems.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, or a closely related field.
• Extensive experience (5+ years) in developing AI solutions for autonomous systems (e.g., self-driving cars, drones, robotics).
• Deep understanding of relevant AI/ML techniques such as deep learning, reinforcement learning, probabilistic robotics, and computer vision.
• Proficiency in C++, Python, and relevant AI/ML frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, ROS).
• Experience with simulation environments and data pipelines for autonomous systems.
• Proven ability to lead technical teams and manage complex projects.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, essential for a remote team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fully remote setting .

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive remote work infrastructure support.
• Generous annual leave and flexible working hours.
• Continuous learning opportunities, including access to online courses and virtual conferences.
• Opportunity to work on groundbreaking projects with a significant societal impact.
• Direct contribution to shaping the future of autonomous technology.
• Annual performance reviews with clear career progression paths.