Senior AI/ML Solutions Architect

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Senior AI/ML Solutions Architect to translate complex business needs into scalable AI/ML architectures. You will work with clients to define requirements and design end-to-end solutions leveraging cloud services, ML frameworks, and MLOps.

You will lead technical teams, create POCs, ensure secure, cost-efficient, and scalable deployments, and stay ahead of industry trends. Hybrid work arrangement with client-facing engagements in Richards Bay.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in software architecture, with a significant focus (5+ years) on designing and implementing AI/ML solutions.
• Extensive experience with major cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP) and their AI/ML services.
• Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in AI/ML (e.g., Python, Java, Scala).
• Deep understanding of machine learning algorithms, deep learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch), and MLOps principles.
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) is a plus.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with technical and business stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Previous experience as a Solutions Architect or Technical Lead in a client-facing role is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and architect end-to-end AI/ML solutions for diverse client needs, encompassing data ingestion, processing, model training, deployment, and monitoring.
• Collaborate closely with clients to understand their business objectives and translate them into technical requirements and architectural blueprints.
• Evaluate and recommend appropriate AI/ML technologies, platforms, and tools (e.g., cloud services, open-source frameworks).
• Provide technical leadership and guidance to development teams throughout the project lifecycle.
• Develop proof-of-concepts (POCs) and prototypes to validate architectural approaches and demonstrate value.
• Ensure solutions are scalable, resilient, secure, and cost-effective.
• Create comprehensive architectural documentation, including diagrams, specifications, and best-practice guidelines.
• Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best-practice in AI/ML and cloud computing.

Skills

AI/ML Architecture

Cloud Platforms

Client-facing

Python/Java/Scala

MLOps

Big Data

Education

Bachelor's/Master's in CS/Engineering/Data Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic technology firm specializing in AI-driven business solutions, is looking for a Senior AI/ML Solutions Architect to join their growing team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is critical in translating complex business requirements into scalable and robust AI/ML architectures. You will engage with clients, understand their challenges, and design end-to-end solutions leveraging the latest advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning. The ideal candidate will have a strong blend of technical expertise in AI/ML, cloud platforms, and excellent communication and client-facing skills. You will play a key role in shaping the technological direction of client projects and ensuring successful implementation. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a key industrial hub like Richards Bay and make a tangible impact.

Key Responsibilities

Design and architect end-to-end AI/ML solutions for diverse client needs, encompassing data ingestion, processing, model training, deployment, and monitoring. Collaborate closely with clients to understand their business objectives and translate them into technical requirements and architectural blueprints. Evaluate and recommend appropriate AI/ML technologies, platforms, and tools (e.g., cloud services, open-source frameworks). Provide technical leadership and guidance to development teams throughout the project lifecycle. Develop proof‑of‑concepts (POCs) and prototypes to validate architectural approaches and demonstrate value. Ensure solutions are scalable, resilient, secure, and cost‑effective. Create comprehensive architectural documentation, including diagrams, specifications, and best‑practice guidelines. Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best‑practice in AI/ML and cloud computing.

Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or a related field. 7+ years of experience in software architecture, with a significant focus (5+ years) on designing and implementing AI/ML solutions. Extensive experience with major cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP) and their AI/ML services. Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in AI/ML (e.g., Python, Java, Scala). Deep understanding of machine learning algorithms, deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch), and MLOps principles. Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) is a plus. Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with technical and business stakeholders. Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities. Previous experience as a Solutions Architect or Technical Lead in a client‑facing role is highly preferred.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance‑based incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and disability cover. The hybrid work model allows for a blend of remote flexibility and in‑office collaboration in our Richards Bay, KwaZulu‑Natal office. We provide ample opportunities for professional development, including certifications, training programs, and attendance at industry conferences. You'll work on exciting and challenging projects with a talented team, contributing to innovative solutions. Our client values work‑life balance and fosters a supportive and dynamic work environment. Enjoy being part of a company that is at the forefront of AI adoption.