Principal AI Scientist - Robotics & Control Systems

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Premium health coverage

Retirement plans

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng, seeks a Principal AI Scientist specializing in Robotics and Control Systems. You will lead AI R&D for autonomous robotic platforms, driving advances in perception, planning, and control while mentoring a team of engineers.

You will design and validate AI algorithms, collaborate with hardware teams, publish research, and contribute to strategic AI initiatives within a hybrid work environment in Sandton.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering or related field with AI/control emphasis.
• 7+ years in AI R&D with robotics focus.
• Experience in RL, motion planning, SLAM, CV, and adaptive control.
• Proven leadership of research teams and project management.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D of AI algorithms for robotic systems, including perception, planning and control.
• Develop ML models for autonomous robot behavior and safety.
• Collaborate with hardware engineers to integrate AI into platforms.
• Mentor AI scientists and engineers, drive innovation.
• Publish findings and contribute to IP; oversee end-to-end AI projects.
• Translate business needs into actionable R&D plans.
• Support strategic planning for AI and robotics initiatives.

Skills

Reinforcement learning

Motion planning

SLAM

Computer vision

Adaptive control

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Education

PhD in Computer Science/Robotics/Electrical Engineering

Tools

ROS

TensorFlow

PyTorch

C++

Python

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced automation and intelligent systems, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal AI Scientist with expertise in Robotics and Control Systems. This senior role, based in Sandton, Gauteng , will drive innovation in the application of AI to complex robotic challenges. You will lead research and development efforts, design advanced AI algorithms for autonomous navigation, manipulation, and decision-making in robotic platforms. The ideal candidate possesses a deep theoretical understanding of AI, machine learning, control theory, and extensive practical experience in robotics. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of intelligent automation and mentor a team of talented engineers.

Key Responsibilities

Lead research and development of AI algorithms for robotic systems, including perception, planning, control, and learning. Design and implement advanced machine learning models for autonomous robot behavior. Develop and validate control strategies that ensure safety, efficiency, and robustness in dynamic environments. Collaborate with hardware engineers to integrate AI capabilities into robotic platforms. Mentor and guide a team of AI scientists and engineers, fostering innovation and technical excellence. Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI, robotics, and control theory. Publish research findings in leading academic venues and contribute to intellectual property. Oversee the end-to-end lifecycle of AI projects from conception to deployment. Translate complex business requirements into actionable AI research and development plans. Contribute to strategic planning for the company's AI and robotics initiatives.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a strong emphasis on AI and control systems. Extensive experience (7+ years) in AI research and development, with a significant focus on robotics applications. Proven expertise in areas such as reinforcement learning, motion planning, SLAM, computer vision, and adaptive control. Strong programming skills in C++ and Python, with experience in robotics middleware like ROS. Experience with deep learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch) and their application to robotics. Demonstrated ability to lead research teams and manage complex technical projects. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. Outstanding communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts. Track record of publications in top-tier robotics and AI conferences/journals.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, significant bonus potential, and a comprehensive benefits package, including premium health coverage and retirement plans. We are committed to professional development, providing opportunities for advanced training, conference attendance, and access to state-of-the-art research facilities. The hybrid work model offers flexibility, blending collaborative in-office work with remote flexibility. Based in Sandton, Gauteng , our modern facility fosters an innovative and dynamic work environment. Join a team at the forefront of intelligent automation and contribute to shaping the future of robotics.