Principal AI Engineer - Computer Vision

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and retirement benefits

Annual leave

Professional development

Stock options

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban seeks a Principal AI Engineer to lead advanced computer vision projects, architecture, and deployment of real-time ML models. The role emphasizes mentoring senior engineers, guiding production systems, and staying ahead of CV trends.

You will drive design, optimization, and validation of cutting-edge vision algorithms, collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver robust AI-enabled solutions in demanding environments.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in Computer Vision or Machine Learning.
• 8+ years of hands-on experience in developing and deploying computer vision and deep learning models.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, and libraries like OpenCV, TensorFlow, PyTorch, or similar.
• Strong understanding of image processing techniques, geometric vision, and 3D vision concepts.
• Experience with model optimization techniques (e.g., quantization, pruning) and embedded systems deployment.
• Demonstrated experience in leading complex technical projects and mentoring engineers.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Familiarity with software development best practices, including version control (Git) and testing frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced computer vision algorithms and deep learning models.
• Develop, train, and evaluate sophisticated ML models for tasks such as object detection, image segmentation, tracking, and scene understanding.
• Optimize model performance for real-time applications and resource-constrained environments.
• Collaborate with hardware and software engineering teams to integrate AI models into production systems.
• Conduct rigorous testing and validation of computer vision systems to ensure robustness and accuracy.
• Mentor and guide junior AI engineers, fostering technical growth and best practices.
• Research and evaluate new computer vision techniques and technologies to stay ahead of the curve.
• Contribute to the architectural design of the computer vision platform.
• Document algorithms, methodologies, and results comprehensively.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues related to computer vision systems.

Skills

Lead engineering

Python

C++

OpenCV

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Computer vision

ML deployment

Education

Master's or PhD in CS/EE with CV/ML specialization

Tools

OpenCV

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Git

CUDA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a trailblazer in developing advanced computer vision systems for autonomous applications, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal AI Engineer to join their innovative team in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This senior role is crucial for driving the technical direction and execution of complex computer vision projects. You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing state-of-the art machine learning models and algorithms that enable machines to 'see' and interpret the visual world. The ideal candidate has a deep passion for computer vision, a strong foundation in ML/DL, and extensive experience in deploying these systems in real-world scenarios. This is a key position for an individual who thrives on solving challenging problems and mentoring other engineers in a collaborative and results-oriented setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced computer vision algorithms and deep learning models.
• Develop, train, and evaluate sophisticated ML models for tasks such as object detection, image segmentation, tracking, and scene understanding.
• Optimize model performance for real-time applications and resource-constrained environments.
• Collaborate with hardware and software engineering teams to integrate AI models into production systems.
• Conduct rigorous testing and validation of computer vision systems to ensure robustness and accuracy.
• Mentor and guide junior AI engineers, fostering technical growth and best practices.
• Research and evaluate new computer vision techniques and technologies to stay ahead of the curve.
• Contribute to the architectural design of the computer vision platform.
• Document algorithms, methodologies, and results comprehensively.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues related to computer vision systems.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in Computer Vision or Machine Learning.
• 8+ years of hands-on experience in developing and deploying computer vision and deep learning models.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, and libraries like OpenCV, TensorFlow, PyTorch, or similar.
• Strong understanding of image processing techniques, geometric vision, and 3D vision concepts.
• Experience with model optimization techniques (e.g., quantization, pruning) and embedded systems deployment.
• Demonstrated experience in leading complex technical projects and mentoring engineers.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Familiarity with software development best practices, including version control (Git) and testing frameworks.
• Experience with data annotation and management pipelines for computer vision datasets.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and a stimulating work environment. You will have the opportunity to work on challenging and impactful projects using cutting-edge technology. We provide a generous annual leave allowance, professional development opportunities, and a culture that encourages innovation and collaboration. Performance bonuses and stock options may be available. This role offers significant potential for career progression and the chance to be a key contributor to a leading technology company.