Lead AI Scientist: Autonomous Robotics & Perception

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits

Professional development

Performance bonus

Retirement savings plan

Conference attendance support

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior AI Scientist to join their team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will develop intelligent robotic systems focusing on perception, decision-making, and control, collaborating with engineers across industries in South Africa.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD or MSc in CS/Robotics/AI, with proven robotics AI experience, strong Python skills, and hands-on with TensorFlow or PyTorch, Gazebo/MuJoCo, and ROS. Excellent analysis and teamwork are essential.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field.
• Proven experience in applying AI and machine learning techniques to robotics problems.
• Strong understanding of machine learning algorithms, particularly in computer vision and reinforcement learning.
• Proficiency in Python and experience with deep learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Experience with robotics simulation tools (Gazebo, MuJoCo) and ROS is highly desirable.
• Solid understanding of control theory and motion planning is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and research skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary research environment.

Responsibilities

• Research, design, and implement AI algorithms for robotic perception, navigation, and manipulation.
• Develop and integrate machine learning models, including deep learning, for tasks such as object recognition, scene understanding, and path planning.
• Collaborate with robotics engineers to test and deploy AI solutions on robotic platforms.
• Analyze experimental data and robot performance to identify areas for improvement.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in AI, robotics, and related fields.
• Contribute to the development of novel AI techniques applicable to automation challenges.
• Mentor junior scientists and engineers on AI-related projects.
• Publish research findings and present work at relevant conferences and workshops.
• Ensure the robustness and reliability of AI components within robotic systems.

Skills

Machine learning

Computer vision

Reinforcement learning

Python programming

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Robotics

ROS

Control theory

Path planning

Education

PhD in CS/Robotics/AI

Master's degree

Tools

Gazebo

MuJoCo

ROS

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior AI Scientist to join their team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will develop intelligent robotic systems focusing on perception, decision-making, and control, collaborating with engineers across industries in South Africa.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD or MSc in CS/Robotics/AI, with proven robotics AI experience, strong Python skills, and hands-on with TensorFlow or PyTorch, Gazebo/MuJoCo, and ROS. Excellent analysis and teamwork are essential.