Senior AI Data Scientist - Generative Models

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings

Paid time off

Hybrid work model

Sandton office

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton is seeking a Senior AI Data Scientist to lead generation models for text, images, and code. You will drive research, design, and deployment of state-of-the-art generative AI techniques within a collaborative team.

The role emphasizes mentorship, experimentation, and cross-functional collaboration with engineers to embed models into products. A PhD/Master’s and 5+ years in ML are expected.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related quantitative field.
• ≥5 years of experience in data science and machine learning with a focus on generative models.
• Experience with TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Keras.
• Proficiency in Python and libraries (NumPy, Pandas, SciPy, scikit-learn).
• Experience developing GANs, VAEs, or transformer-based generative models.
• Strong understanding of statistics, probability, and linear algebra.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Experience with large-scale data processing is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Research, design, and implement advanced generative AI models (GANs, VAEs, Diffusion Models, Transformers).
• Train, evaluate, and fine-tune generative models for content creation tasks (text, image, audio, code).
• Process and analyze large datasets for training generative models.
• Collaborate with software engineers to integrate generative models into product pipelines and applications.
• Stay abreast of the latest research in generative AI and machine learning.
• Develop metrics and methodologies for evaluating quality and creativity of outputs.
• Publish research findings and present at conferences.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the team's knowledge base.

Skills

Communication skills

Collaboration

Mentorship

Education

PhD or Master’s in CS/AI/ML

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Keras

NumPy

Pandas

SciPy

scikit-learn

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in AI-driven creative solutions, is seeking a Senior AI Data Scientist with deep expertise in generative models. This role, based in the vibrant hub of Sandton, Gauteng , focuses on developing and refining AI models that can generate novel content, such as text, images, and code. The position offers a hybrid work arrangement, fostering collaboration while providing flexibility. You will be at the forefront of exploring and applying cutting-edge generative AI techniques, including GANs, VAEs, and advanced transformer architectures. This is an exciting opportunity to work on impactful projects that are shaping the future of creative industries. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with a team of talented researchers and engineers, contributing to research, development, and deployment of state-of-the‑art generative models. We are committed to fostering an environment of continuous learning and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, design, and implement advanced generative AI models (e.g., GANs, VAEs, Diffusion Models, Transformers).
• Train, evaluate, and fine‑tune generative models for specific content creation tasks (text, image, audio, code).
• Process and analyze large datasets required for training generative models.
• Collaborate with software engineers to integrate generative models into product pipelines and applications.
• Stay abreast of the latest research in generative AI and machine learning.
• Develop metrics and methodologies for evaluating the quality and creativity of generated outputs.
• Publish research findings and present work at relevant conferences.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the team's knowledge base.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in data science and machine learning, with a strong focus on generative models.
• Proven experience with deep learning frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Keras.
• Expertise in Python and relevant libraries (NumPy, Pandas, SciPy, scikit‑learn).
• Demonstrable experience in developing and implementing GANs, VAEs, or transformer‑based generative models.
• Strong understanding of statistical modeling, probability, and linear algebra.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Experience with large‑scale data processing is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, generous performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement savings, and extensive paid time off. Professional development is highly valued, with a dedicated budget for conferences, workshops, and further education. The hybrid work model provides excellent flexibility for our team members. Our offices in Sandton, Gauteng , offer a modern and collaborative workspace. This role presents significant opportunities for career advancement and the chance to work on groundbreaking AI projects that define the future of creative technology.