Principal Computer Vision Engineer

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Health coverage

Retirement contributions

Generous PTO

Hybrid work environment

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria, Gauteng, is seeking a Principal Computer Vision Engineer to lead research and development in AI and emerging technologies. You will design and implement advanced CV algorithms, guide a team of engineers, and drive projects from concept to deployment in autonomous systems, AR, and surveillance based in Pretoria.

The role requires a PhD or Master’s in CV-related field, 10+ years in CV/R&D, deep ML/DL expertise, and strong leadership with product collaboration.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s in CS/EE with CV specialization.
• 10+ years in computer vision R&D with leadership experience.
• Deep expertise in image processing, ML/DL, CNNs/RNNs/Transformers.
• Proficiency in C++ and Python; OpenCV and DL frameworks.
• Experience with real-time/embedded systems and optimization.
• Strong calibration, multi-view geometry, and SLAM knowledge.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead research, design, and implementation of advanced CV algorithms.
• Develop and optimize state-of-the-art image recognition and 3D techniques.
• Mentor engineers and drive technical excellence within the team.
• Collaborate with product managers to define roadmaps and translate research.
• Evaluate new technologies to enhance system performance.
• Publish findings and represent the company at industry events.
• Ensure robustness, scalability, and deployment readiness.

Skills

CV & ML expertise

Deep learning (CNNs/RNNs/Transformers)

C++

Python

OpenCV

TensorFlow / PyTorch

Real-time / embedded systems

SLAM & multi-view geometry

Leadership

Communication

Education

PhD in CV or related field

Master's in CS/EE with CV focus

Tools

OpenCV

TensorFlow

PyTorch

CUDA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic leader in the AI & Emerging Technologies space, is seeking a visionary Principal Computer Vision Engineer to join their innovative team in Pretoria, Gauteng. This senior role is crucial for driving advancements in visual perception technologies, developing sophisticated algorithms, and leading key projects from conception to deployment. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of how machines interpret and interact with visual data, working on challenging problems that span autonomous systems, augmented reality, and intelligent surveillance. The ideal candidate possesses a deep technical expertise in computer vision, a proven track record of innovation, and strong leadership capabilities. You will collaborate with a world-class team of researchers and engineers in a fast-paced, intellectually stimulating environment. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in a rapidly evolving field, based in the heart of Pretoria.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research, design, and implementation of advanced computer vision algorithms and systems.
• Develop and optimize state-of-the‑art techniques for image recognition, object detection, tracking, segmentation, and 3D reconstruction.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers and researchers, fostering technical excellence and innovation within the team.
• Collaborate closely with product managers and cross‑functional teams to define project roadmaps and translate research into practical applications.
• Evaluate and integrate new technologies and methodologies to enhance system performance and capabilities.
• Publish research findings in leading conferences and journals, and represent the company at industry events.
• Ensure the robustness, scalability, and efficiency of deployed computer vision solutions.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in Computer Vision.
• 10+ years of experience in computer vision research and development, with a significant portion in a lead or principal role.
• Deep expertise in image processing, machine learning, deep learning (CNNs, RNNs, Transformers), and relevant algorithms.
• Proficiency in C++ and Python, along with experience using computer vision libraries (e.g., OpenCV) and deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Experience with real‑time systems, embedded systems, and performance optimization.
• Strong understanding of camera calibration, multi‑view geometry, and SLAM.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance‑based bonuses, and an excellent benefits package including comprehensive health coverage, retirement contributions, and generous paid time off.
• We provide a stimulating hybrid work environment that balances in‑office collaboration with remote flexibility, supporting a healthy work‑life balance.
• Access to cutting‑edge research facilities and opportunities for continuous professional development, including conference attendance and further education, are standard.
• This role is based in our Pretoria office, offering significant opportunities for professional growth and impact within the AI and emerging technologies landscape.