Senior AI Ethics and Compliance Specialist

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior AI Ethics and Compliance Specialist to join our Pietermaritzburg office with a hybrid work model. You will shape and enforce ethical frameworks, oversee regulatory compliance, and guide product teams through AI governance requirements.

The ideal candidate has advanced degrees and 5+ years in AI ethics or technology compliance, with strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder-management skills to drive responsible AI initiatives across the organization.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Ethics, Law, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in AI ethics, responsible AI, or technology compliance.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing ethical frameworks for complex technological systems.
• In-depth knowledge of machine learning principles, AI development processes, and common AI applications.
• Strong understanding of legal and regulatory requirements related to data privacy, AI governance, and cybersecurity.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Experience working within an R&D or technology-driven environment is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with AI bias detection and mitigation techniques.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid setting, balancing independent work with team collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and enforce comprehensive AI ethics policies and guidelines across the organization.
• Conduct rigorous ethical risk assessments for new and existing AI projects, identifying potential biases, fairness issues, and societal impacts.
• Ensure all AI systems comply with relevant national and international regulations, including data privacy laws and emerging AI governance frameworks.
• Collaborate closely with AI research, development, and product teams to integrate ethical considerations into the AI lifecycle.
• Provide expert advice and training on AI ethics and compliance to stakeholders at all levels.
• Monitor the ethical performance of deployed AI systems and recommend corrective actions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI ethics research, best practices, and regulatory developments.
• Prepare detailed reports and documentation for internal reviews and external audits.

Skills

AI ethics

Regulatory compliance

Data privacy

AI governance

Stakeholder communication

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Hybrid work adaptability

Education

Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Ethics, Law, or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking organization at the forefront of artificial intelligence, is seeking a highly experienced and dedicated Senior AI Ethics and Compliance Specialist to join their dynamic team. This pivotal role will be based in our Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal office, with a hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility between remote and in-office collaboration. You will be instrumental in shaping and maintaining the ethical frameworks and compliance standards that govern the development and deployment of our cutting-edge AI solutions. This position requires a deep understanding of AI technologies, regulatory landscapes, and the ethical considerations inherent in advanced computing.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and enforce comprehensive AI ethics policies and guidelines across the organization.
• Conduct rigorous ethical risk assessments for new and existing AI projects, identifying potential biases, fairness issues, and societal impacts.
• Ensure all AI systems comply with relevant national and international regulations, including data privacy laws and emerging AI governance frameworks.
• Collaborate closely with AI research, development, and product teams to integrate ethical considerations into the AI lifecycle.
• Provide expert advice and training on AI ethics and compliance to stakeholders at all levels.
• Monitor the ethical performance of deployed AI systems and recommend corrective actions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI ethics research, best practices, and regulatory developments.
• Prepare detailed reports and documentation for internal reviews and external audits.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Ethics, Law, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in AI ethics, responsible AI, or technology compliance.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing ethical frameworks for complex technological systems.
• In-depth knowledge of machine learning principles, AI development processes, and common AI applications.
• Strong understanding of legal and regulatory requirements related to data privacy, AI governance, and cybersecurity.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Experience working within an R&D or technology-driven environment is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with AI bias detection and mitigation techniques.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid setting, balancing independent work with team collaboration.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits program. Employees will have access to continuous professional development opportunities, cutting-edge AI tools and resources, and a stimulating work environment that fosters innovation and ethical exploration. This role provides a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of responsible AI development in Pietermaritzburg. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.