About the Role
Our client is seeking a visionary Principal AI Engineer with deep expertise in Reinforcement Learning (RL) to join their advanced research and development team in Pretoria, Gauteng . This is a senior leadership position where you will architect and drive the implementation of novel RL algorithms to solve complex, real-world problems. You will lead a team of talented engineers and researchers, pushing the frontiers of AI and influencing the company's strategic direction in cutting-edge technologies. The ideal candidate has a strong publication record, extensive practical experience in RL, and a passion for innovation. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of AI within a dynamic and forward-thinking organization. We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace that encourages creativity and collaboration.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the research, design, and implementation of advanced Reinforcement Learning algorithms and systems.
- Develop and deploy RL models for complex optimization, control, and decision-making problems in various domains.
- Architect scalable and efficient RL training pipelines, ensuring robust experimentation and evaluation.
- Mentor and guide a team of AI engineers and researchers, fostering technical excellence and innovation.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for RL applications and integrate solutions into products and services.
- Stay at the forefront of RL research, publishing findings in top conferences and journals, and actively contributing to the scientific community.
- Evaluate and select appropriate tools, frameworks, and platforms for RL development and deployment.
- Ensure the ethical considerations and safety aspects of RL systems are thoroughly addressed.
- Contribute to the strategic roadmap for AI and Reinforcement Learning within the organization.
- Optimize RL agents for performance, efficiency, and real-world deployment constraints.
Requirements
- Ph.D. or Master's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a closely related field.
- Extensive professional experience (7+ years) in AI/ML research and development, with a significant focus on Reinforcement Learning.
- Proven track record of leading complex ML projects and delivering successful RL solutions.
- Deep theoretical understanding and practical experience with various RL algorithms (e.g., Q-learning, Policy Gradients, Actor-Critic methods, Deep RL).
- Strong programming skills in Python, with extensive experience in ML/RL libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Ray RLlib, Stable Baselines).
- Experience with simulation environments and agent-based modeling is highly advantageous.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking abilities.
- Strong leadership, communication, and mentoring skills.
- Ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
- Experience with parallel and distributed computing for large-scale RL training.
Benefits
- Exceptional compensation package, including a substantial base salary and performance bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Generous vacation policy and professional development allowance.
- Opportunities to lead groundbreaking research and influence industry direction.
- Access to world-class computing infrastructure and cutting-edge technology.
- Highly collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment.
- Retirement savings plan with company matching.
- Support for attending and presenting at leading AI conferences.
- Flexible working hours and hybrid work model.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.