Principal AI Engineer - Reinforcement Learning

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private health insurance

Retirement plan

Stock options

Remote work

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal AI Engineer specialized in reinforcement learning to drive research and development of cutting-edge RL algorithms. This fully remote role is open to top talent worldwide, with Randburg, Gauteng as a known presence.

You will lead design and evaluation of RL systems, mentor researchers, publish findings, and shape the strategic direction of the AI program while collaborating with cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in machine learning with deep specialization in reinforcement learning.
• Proven research and development track record with RL publications or notable open-source contributions.
• Proficiency in Python and ML frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch, or JAX).
• Strong understanding of RL concepts and algorithms (Q-learning, Policy Gradients, Actor-Critic).
• Experience with simulation environments (OpenAI Gym, MuJoCo).
• Ability to work independently and lead complex research projects in a remote setting.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, and evaluation of novel reinforcement learning algorithms and frameworks.
• Develop and optimize RL agents for complex environments, including simulation and real-world applications.
• Conduct in-depth research into advanced RL topics (deep RL, multi-agent RL, exploration strategies, model-based RL).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate RL solutions into product development pipelines.
• Mentor junior engineers and researchers, providing technical guidance and fostering innovation.
• Stay abreast of the latest RL advancements through literature review and conferences.
• Develop robust testing and validation methodologies for RL systems.
• Contribute to strategic direction of the company’s AI research efforts.
• Publish research findings in top-tier conferences and journals.
• Ensure scalability, efficiency, and reliability of RL implementations.

Skills

Reinforcement Learning

Python

TensorFlow

PyTorch

JAX

RL algorithms

Research leadership

Education

PhD or Master’s in CS/AI/ML/Robotics

Tools

OpenAI Gym

MuJoCo

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge research and development firm pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal AI Engineer specializing in Reinforcement Learning (RL). This is a unique opportunity to lead groundbreaking research and development initiatives, designing and implementing advanced RL algorithms for complex decision‑making systems. You will play a key role in shaping the future of AI applications, working alongside world‑class researchers and engineers. The role is fully remote, allowing exceptional talent to contribute from anywhere, though the company has a presence in Randburg, Gauteng . Join us in solving some of the most challenging problems in AI.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, and evaluation of novel reinforcement learning algorithms and frameworks.
• Develop and optimize RL agents for complex environments, including simulation and real‑world applications.
• Conduct in-depth research into advanced RL topics such as deep RL, multi‑agent RL, exploration strategies, and model‑based RL.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to integrate RL solutions into product development pipelines.
• Mentor junior engineers and researchers, providing technical guidance and fostering innovation.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in RL and artificial intelligence research through literature review and participation in academic conferences.
• Develop robust testing and validation methodologies for RL systems.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the company’s AI research efforts.
• Publish research findings in top‑tier conferences and journals.
• Ensure the scalability, efficiency, and reliability of RL implementations in Randburg and beyond.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics, or a related quantitative field.
• Extensive experience (8+ years) in machine learning, with a deep specialization in reinforcement learning.
• Proven track record of impactful research and development in RL, evidenced by publications in leading AI conferences (e.g., NeurIPS, ICML, ICLR) or significant open‑source contributions.
• Expert proficiency in Python and ML frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or JAX.
• Strong theoretical understanding of RL concepts, algorithms (e.g., Q-learning, Policy Gradients, Actor-Critic), and their mathematical underpinnings.
• Experience with simulation environments (e.g., OpenAI Gym, MuJoCo) and deep learning techniques.
• Ability to work independently and lead complex research projects in a remote setting.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to translate research into practical, scalable solutions.
• Passion for pushing the frontiers of AI research in Randburg, Gauteng .

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, significant performance bonuses, and comprehensive benefits including private health insurance, retirement fund, and potential for stock options.
• We fully embrace remote work, providing necessary equipment and support for a productive home office.
• Opportunities for continuous learning, attending premier conferences, and engaging with the global AI research community are abundant.
• The company fosters a culture of intellectual curiosity, collaboration, and groundbreaking innovation.
• We offer a challenging yet rewarding environment.