Lead AI/ML Engineer - Deep Learning

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 1,600,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Medical, dental & vision insurance

Retirement savings plan with company-m

Professional development

Stock options

Work-life balance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead AI/ML Engineer to spearhead advanced deep learning initiatives in a state-of-the-art research facility in Tembisa, Gauteng. You will guide a team of engineers and researchers, translating research concepts into robust production systems.

Requirements include a PhD/Masters in CS/AI/ML and 5+ years of hands-on deep learning, with expertise in TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Keras. Strong leadership and cloud experience are essential.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, AI, or related field.
• 5+ years in designing and deploying complex ML models with deep learning focus.
• Proven experience leading technical teams and AI/ML projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and deployment of advanced deep learning models and AI systems.
• Mentor AI/ML engineers and data scientists.
• Oversee the ML lifecycle from data preprocessing to deployment and retraining.
• Define and drive the technical roadmap for AI/ML projects.
• Research new AI techniques and evaluate their applicability.
• Ensure scalability, performance, and reliability of AI solutions in production.
• Collaborate with product managers, software engineers, and stakeholders to integrate AI capabilities.
• Champion MLOps, data governance, and ethical AI development.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Problem solving

Research ability

Education

Master's or PhD in Computer Science/AI/ML

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Keras

Python

Docker

Kubernetes

MLflow

Cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a frontrunner in advanced technology solutions, is actively searching for an experienced and visionary Lead AI/ML Engineer to spearhead their Deep Learning initiatives. This critical role is based in Tembisa, Gauteng , within a state-of-the-art research facility dedicated to pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence. You will lead a team of talented engineers and researchers, guiding the development of cutting-edge AI models that address complex real-world challenges. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of machine learning algorithms, particularly in deep neural networks, and has a proven ability to translate research concepts into robust, scalable production systems. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact on industry-leading products and services, working within a highly collaborative and innovative environment. The company fosters a culture of continuous learning and technological advancement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced deep learning models and AI systems.
• Manage and mentor a team of AI/ML engineers and data scientists, fostering a collaborative and productive environment.
• Oversee the entire ML lifecycle, from data preprocessing and model training to deployment, monitoring, and retraining.
• Define and drive the technical roadmap for AI/ML projects, aligning with business objectives.
• Conduct research into new AI techniques and technologies, evaluating their potential application and impact.
• Ensure the scalability, performance, and reliability of AI solutions in production environments.
• Collaborate closely with product managers, software engineers, and stakeholders to integrate AI capabilities into existing and new products.
• Champion best practices in MLOps, data governance, and ethical AI development.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related quantitative field.
• 5+ years of experience in designing, building, and deploying complex machine learning models, with a strong focus on deep learning.
• Demonstrated experience leading technical teams and managing AI/ML projects.
• Expertise in deep learning frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Keras.
• Proficiency in programming languages like Python, with strong software engineering skills.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and their AI/ML services.
• Solid understanding of data structures, algorithms, and software design principles.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Experience with MLOps tools and practices (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes, MLflow) is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a comprehensive compensation package, including a highly competitive base salary and performance-based bonuses.
• A robust benefits portfolio includes excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement savings plan with company matching, and substantial paid time off.
• Professional development is strongly encouraged, with opportunities for attending leading conferences, workshops, and access to online learning resources.
• The working environment in Tembisa, Gauteng , is designed to foster innovation, with access to cutting‑edge technology and collaborative spaces.
• Further benefits include employee wellness programs, potential for stock options, and a commitment to work‑life balance.