Lead AI Research Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 800,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Stock options

Health, dental & vision coverage

Flexible hours

Paid time off

Conference & training funding

Fully remote autonomy

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead AI Research Engineer for a fully remote, globally distributed team. You will spearhead research initiatives, design novel AI algorithms, and build scalable systems for ML, DL, NLP, and computer vision.

Requires 7+ years in AI R&D, a PhD or MS, and strong Python plus TensorFlow/PyTorch experience. You will mentor others, publish findings, shape the research roadmap, and ensure ethical AI practices.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of AI R&D experience with proven innovations.
• Deep knowledge of ML/DL architectures (CNNs, RNNs, Transformers) and statistical modeling.
• Proficiency in Python and DL frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch, Keras).
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and distributed computing.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead AI R&D efforts across ML/DL research and development.
• Design, implement, validate novel AI algorithms and models.
• Develop scalable, efficient AI systems.
• Mentor junior engineers and researchers.
• Publish findings at top AI conferences or journals.
• Contribute to AI roadmap and strategy.
• Ensure ethical and responsible AI development.

Skills

Python

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Keras

Cloud platforms

Distributed computing

Research leadership

Education

Master's or PhD in CS/AI

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Keras

Job description

About the Role

Our client is at the forefront of artificial intelligence innovation, developing next-generation AI solutions for complex industrial challenges. We are seeking a highly skilled and visionary Lead AI Research Engineer to join our dynamic, fully remote team. In this critical role, you will spearhead research initiatives, design novel AI algorithms, and contribute to the development of scalable and efficient AI systems. You will have the opportunity to work on challenging problems in areas such as machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and computer vision. This position is ideal for an individual passionate about pushing the boundaries of AI and translating cutting-edge research into tangible products. As a remote-first organization, we embrace collaboration and innovation across geographical boundaries, fostering a culture of continuous learning and technical excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development efforts in artificial intelligence, focusing on machine learning and deep learning.
• Design, implement, and validate novel AI algorithms and models.
• Develop and optimize AI systems for performance, scalability, and efficiency.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define AI project requirements and objectives.
• Mentor and guide junior AI engineers and researchers.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI and machine learning research.
• Publish research findings in top-tier conferences and journals.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the AI research roadmap.
• Ensure the ethical and responsible development of AI technologies.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in AI research and development, with a proven track record of innovation.
• Deep understanding of machine learning algorithms, deep learning architectures (CNNs, RNNs, Transformers), and statistical modeling.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, and experience with deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Keras).
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and distributed computing.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities, with experience managing research projects.
• Ability to work effectively in a fully remote, collaborative team environment.
• Publications in reputable AI conferences (e.g., NeurIPS, ICML, ICLR) or journals are highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers an exceptional benefits package, including a highly competitive salary and generous stock options.
• We provide comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Employees enjoy flexible working hours and ample paid time off.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth, including funding for conferences and training, are readily available.
• This role is entirely remote, offering significant autonomy and the ability to shape your work environment.
• Join a team that is making a real impact in the world of artificial intelligence.