Lead AI Engineer - Deep Learning Architectures

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health and wellness benefits

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead AI Engineer in Sandton, Gauteng, to drive the architecture and development of production-grade deep learning systems. The role is hybrid, requiring leadership, strong collaboration with researchers, and hands-on design of scalable AI pipelines.

You will mentor engineers, set standards, and work with product teams to deliver cutting-edge AI solutions using TensorFlow, PyTorch, and other tools. A PhD or Master’s degree with 7+ years in AI/ML is preferred.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in CS, AI, or related field.
• 7+ years in AI/ML with a significant focus on deep learning architectures.
• Proven experience in designing and building production-grade deep learning systems.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and distributed computing.
• Experience with MLOps practices is a strong advantage.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and architecture of deep learning systems and models for various applications.
• Develop scalable and efficient solutions for training and deploying complex deep learning models.
• Collaborate with AI researchers to translate cutting-edge research into practical implementations.
• Set technical direction and standards for AI engineering practices within the team.
• Mentor and guide junior AI engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
• Oversee the implementation of AI models, ensuring performance, reliability, and maintainability.
• Work closely with product managers and other stakeholders to define requirements and deliver AI solutions.
• Evaluate and select appropriate deep learning frameworks, tools, and technologies.

Skills

AI/ML engineering

Deep learning architectures

Leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in CS/AI

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Keras

AWS

Azure

GCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in AI research and development, is seeking a Lead AI Engineer to drive the architecture and development of deep learning systems in Sandton, Gauteng . This hybrid role requires a visionary engineer who can translate complex AI research into robust, scalable, and efficient production-ready solutions. You will be responsible for designing the architectural blueprints for our client's next generation of AI-powered products, with a focus on deep learning models. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in designing, building, and deploying deep learning architectures, coupled with strong leadership and problem-solving skills. You will work with a team of world-class researchers and engineers, pushing the boundaries of what's possible with AI. This is a critical role that will shape the technical direction of our client's AI initiatives and contribute to groundbreaking technological advancements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and architecture of deep learning systems and models for various applications.
• Develop scalable and efficient solutions for training and deploying complex deep learning models.
• Collaborate with AI researchers to translate cutting-edge research into practical implementations.
• Set technical direction and standards for AI engineering practices within the team.
• Mentor and guide junior AI engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
• Oversee the implementation of AI models, ensuring performance, reliability, and maintainability.
• Work closely with product managers and other stakeholders to define requirements and deliver AI solutions.
• Evaluate and select appropriate deep learning frameworks, tools, and technologies.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in AI/ML engineering, with a significant focus on deep learning architectures.
• Proven experience in designing and building production-grade deep learning systems.
• Expertise in deep learning frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Keras.
• Strong understanding of various neural network architectures (CNNs, RNNs, Transformers) and their applications.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and distributed computing.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with MLOps practices is a strong advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and generous opportunities for professional development, including conferences and advanced training. The hybrid work model provides flexibility and supports a healthy work-life balance. Employees have the chance to work on challenging and impactful projects in a collaborative and innovative environment in Sandton, Gauteng . We foster a culture of continuous learning and provide a clear path for career advancement.