Lead AI Engineer - Real-time Systems

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical coverage

Retirement fund

Relocation assistance

Job summary

A leading technology company in Stellenbosch is seeking an experienced Lead AI Engineer to head a new real-time AI initiative. You will lead a team of engineers and data scientists to design, develop, and deploy low-latency AI systems that meet strict latency requirements.

Responsibilities include setting technical direction, mentoring staff, collaborating with product managers, and delivering robust AI solutions in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Computer Science, AI, or related field.
• 8+ years in AI/ML engineering with lead/senior experience.
• Experience building real-time, low-latency AI systems.
• Proficiency in Python, C++, or Java.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Experience in Stellenbosch or tech hubs preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of AI/ML engineers and data scientists.
• Architect scalable, low-latency AI/ML systems for real-time apps.
• Oversee ML model development from prototyping to production.
• Drive technical decisions, best practices, and code quality.
• Collaborate with product managers to define requirements and timelines.
• Optimize model performance and system efficiency.
• Conduct code reviews and stay current with AI advances.

Skills

AI/ML engineering

Leadership

Python

C++

Java

TensorFlow

PyTorch

System design

Data structures

Education

Master's or PhD in Computer Science/AI or related field

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge technology company specializing in real-time data processing and AI applications, is seeking an experienced Lead AI Engineer to head their new development initiative in **Stellenbosch, Western Cape**. This senior role involves leading a team of talented engineers and data scientists in the design, development, and deployment of highly performant AI systems that operate under strict latency requirements. You will be responsible for setting technical direction, mentoring team members, and ensuring the successful delivery of complex AI solutions. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a rapidly evolving field, working within a vibrant tech hub in **Stellenbosch**. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership capabilities, deep technical expertise in AI/ML, and a proven ability to deliver robust, real-time systems. Our client is committed to fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of AI/ML engineers and data scientists.
• Architect and design scalable, low-latency AI/ML systems for real-time applications.
• Oversee the development and implementation of machine learning models, from prototyping to production deployment.
• Drive technical decisions, best practices, and code quality within the team.
• Collaborate with product managers and stakeholders to define project requirements and timelines.
• Optimize model performance and system efficiency for real-time processing.
• Conduct code reviews and provide technical guidance to team members.
• Stay current with advancements in AI, machine learning, and real-time systems.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a related quantitative field.
• 8+ years of experience in AI/ML engineering, with at least 2 years in a lead or senior technical role.
• Proven experience in designing and building real-time AI systems and low-latency applications.
• Strong expertise in programming languages such as Python, C++, or Java.
• Experience with machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) and performance optimization techniques.
• Deep understanding of data structures, algorithms, and system design.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience working in **Stellenbosch, Western Cape** or a similar technology-focused region is preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance bonuses, comprehensive medical coverage, and a retirement fund.
• You will have the opportunity to work on challenging and impactful projects, leading a talented team in a stimulating environment.
• We provide significant opportunities for professional development, including access to conferences and advanced training programs.
• The work culture encourages innovation, collaboration, and a healthy work-life balance.
• Relocation assistance is available for exceptional candidates moving to **Stellenbosch**.