Senior AI Scientist - Robotics & Automation

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits

Professional development

Performance bonus

Retirement savings plan

Conference attendance support

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior AI Scientist to join their team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will develop intelligent robotic systems focusing on perception, decision-making, and control, collaborating with engineers across industries in South Africa.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD or MSc in CS/Robotics/AI, with proven robotics AI experience, strong Python skills, and hands-on with TensorFlow or PyTorch, Gazebo/MuJoCo, and ROS. Excellent analysis and teamwork are essential.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field.
• Proven experience in applying AI and machine learning techniques to robotics problems.
• Strong understanding of machine learning algorithms, particularly in computer vision and reinforcement learning.
• Proficiency in Python and experience with deep learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Experience with robotics simulation tools (Gazebo, MuJoCo) and ROS is highly desirable.
• Solid understanding of control theory and motion planning is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and research skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary research environment.

Responsibilities

• Research, design, and implement AI algorithms for robotic perception, navigation, and manipulation.
• Develop and integrate machine learning models, including deep learning, for tasks such as object recognition, scene understanding, and path planning.
• Collaborate with robotics engineers to test and deploy AI solutions on robotic platforms.
• Analyze experimental data and robot performance to identify areas for improvement.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in AI, robotics, and related fields.
• Contribute to the development of novel AI techniques applicable to automation challenges.
• Mentor junior scientists and engineers on AI-related projects.
• Publish research findings and present work at relevant conferences and workshops.
• Ensure the robustness and reliability of AI components within robotic systems.

Skills

Machine learning

Computer vision

Reinforcement learning

Python programming

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Robotics

ROS

Control theory

Path planning

Education

PhD in CS/Robotics/AI

Master's degree

Tools

Gazebo

MuJoCo

ROS

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Job description

About the Role

A leading research and development firm specializing in advanced robotics and automation is looking for a Senior AI Scientist to join their innovative team in **Mossel Bay, Western Cape**. This role focuses on developing intelligent systems that enhance robotic capabilities, including perception, decision-making, and control. You will be involved in cutting-edge projects that leverage AI to create more autonomous and efficient robotic solutions for various industries. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in machine learning, computer vision, and potentially reinforcement learning, with practical experience in robotics. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the future of automation in **South Africa**.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, design, and implement AI algorithms for robotic perception, navigation, and manipulation.
• Develop and integrate machine learning models, including deep learning, for tasks such as object recognition, scene understanding, and path planning.
• Collaborate with robotics engineers to test and deploy AI solutions on robotic platforms.
• Analyze experimental data and robot performance to identify areas for improvement.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in AI, robotics, and related fields.
• Contribute to the development of novel AI techniques applicable to automation challenges.
• Mentor junior scientists and engineers on AI-related projects.
• Publish research findings and present work at relevant conferences and workshops.
• Ensure the robustness and reliability of AI components within robotic systems.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field.
• Proven experience in applying AI and machine learning techniques to robotics problems.
• Strong understanding of machine learning algorithms, particularly in computer vision and/or reinforcement learning.
• Proficiency in Python and experience with deep learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Experience with robotics simulation tools (e.g., Gazebo, MuJoCo) and robotic operating systems (ROS) is highly desirable.
• Solid understanding of control theory and motion planning is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and research skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary research environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and significant opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• Employees enjoy a stimulating research environment in **Mossel Bay, Western Cape**, with access to advanced laboratory facilities.
• Additional benefits include a performance bonus, retirement savings plan, and support for attending leading industry conferences.
• Join us to shape the future of intelligent automation.