Lead AI Engineer - Reinforcement Learning

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Relocation assistance

Professional development budget

Hybrid work model

Team events

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead AI Engineer specializing in Reinforcement Learning to join our client in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This senior role focuses on designing, developing, and deploying RL algorithms and systems, guiding a team of researchers and engineers in a hybrid office/remote setting.

You will define technical strategy, mentor staff, publish results, and collaborate across product teams to translate RL innovations into real-world applications.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Computer Science, AI, or related with RL focus.
• 5+ years in AI/ML with strong RL specialization and leadership.
• Proven track record leading technical teams and projects.
• Expertise in Python and RL libraries (Ray RLlib, OpenAI Gym).
• Deep learning experience with TensorFlow or PyTorch.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and deployment of RL models and apps.
• Mentor a team of AI/ML engineers and researchers.
• Define technical RL strategy and roadmap.
• Research RL advances and apply to products and services.
• Develop RL training environments and simulations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate RL solutions.
• Ensure scalable, robust RL systems and publish findings.

Skills

Leadership

Reinforcement Learning

Python

RL Libraries

Deep Learning

Team Mentoring

Education

PhD or MSc in CS/AI with RL focus

Tools

Ray RLlib

Stable Baselines

OpenAI Gym

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Job description

About the Role

Our client is searching for an experienced Lead AI Engineer with a specialization in Reinforcement Learning (RL) to join their innovative team in **Mossel Bay, Western Cape**. This senior position involves leading the design, development, and implementation of advanced RL algorithms and systems. You will be instrumental in driving cutting-edge AI projects, tackling complex challenges in areas such as robotics, game AI, and optimization. The role offers a **hybrid** work arrangement, combining essential in-office collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. This is an outstanding opportunity to contribute to pioneering AI research and development in a beautiful coastal setting. We are seeking a visionary leader who can guide a team of talented engineers and researchers, pushing the boundaries of intelligent systems. Your expertise will be vital in developing next-generation AI solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of reinforcement learning models and applications.
• Mentor and guide a team of AI/ML engineers and researchers.
• Define technical strategy and roadmap for RL initiatives.
• Conduct advanced research in RL algorithms and their practical applications.
• Develop and optimize RL training environments and simulations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate RL solutions into products and services.
• Ensure the scalability, robustness, and efficiency of RL systems.
• Stay current with the latest research and advancements in RL and AI.
• Publish research findings and present work at conferences.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the AI team.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field with a focus on Reinforcement Learning.
• 5+ years of experience in AI/ML engineering, with a strong specialization in Reinforcement Learning.
• Proven track record of leading technical teams and projects.
• Expertise in Python and RL libraries (e.g., Ray RLlib, Stable Baselines, OpenAI Gym).
• Strong theoretical understanding of RL algorithms (e.g., Q-learning, Policy Gradients, Actor-Critic methods).
• Experience with deep learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong leadership and communication abilities.
• Experience working in a **hybrid** environment, with a willingness to collaborate from the **Mossel Bay, Western Cape** office.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver complex AI projects successfully.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, comprehensive health benefits, and retirement savings plans.
• Employees benefit from a generous professional development budget for training, certifications, and conference attendance.
• The **hybrid** work model provides a balance between office collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Enjoy working in a dynamic team environment in scenic **Mossel Bay, Western Cape**, with opportunities for career advancement and impact.
• We also offer relocation assistance for candidates moving to the area.
• Team social events and a strong emphasis on work-life balance are key aspects of our company culture.