Senior Deep Learning Engineer - AI Research

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

Benefits offered by this job

Research grants

State-of-the-art computing resources

Conference attendance

Flexible working arrangements

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Deep Learning Engineer for its AI research division in Pretoria. The role focuses on designing, implementing, and optimizing state‑of‑the‑art deep learning models, collaborating with researchers to push the boundaries of AI.

You will lead experiments, refine architectures, and mentor junior engineers while contributing to publications and cutting‑edge projects. Flexible work arrangements are available in a world‑class computing environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s in CS/AI/ML or closely related field.
• Minimum 6 years hands-on deep learning research and development.
• Proven experience with CNNs, RNNs, Transformers, GANs.
• Proficient in TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Keras.
• Strong Python and NumPy/SciPy skills.
• Experience with distributed training and HPC environments.
• Publication record desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement advanced deep learning models for AI applications.
• Conduct rigorous experiments; analyze results and iterate on architectures.
• Optimize models for performance, scalability, and efficiency on HPC infrastructure.
• Collaborate with researchers to translate ideas into practical solutions.
• Stay updated with the latest AI research and publications.
• Mentor junior engineers and researchers in DL techniques.
• Evaluate and integrate new DL frameworks, libraries, and tools.
• Contribute to the overall research strategy of the AI division.

Skills

Deep learning research

Python programming

Distributed training

GPU computing

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. or Master’s in CS/AI/ML

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Keras

NumPy

SciPy

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious AI research institution, is seeking a highly motivated Senior Deep Learning Engineer to contribute to groundbreaking research and development initiatives in Pretoria . This role is ideal for an individual passionate about pushing the frontiers of artificial intelligence, with a deep focus on designing, implementing, and optimizing cutting‑edge deep learning models. You will work alongside world‑class researchers and engineers on challenging problems, contributing to novel algorithms and applications. This is a unique opportunity to make significant contributions to the field of AI in South Africa 's administrative capital. The position is based in Pretoria .

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement advanced deep learning models for various AI applications, including but not limited to natural language processing, computer vision, and reinforcement learning.
• Conduct rigorous experimentation, analyze results, and iterate on model architectures and training methodologies.
• Optimize deep learning models for performance, scalability, and efficiency on high‑performance computing infrastructure.
• Collaborate with researchers to translate novel research ideas into practical, implementable solutions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and publications in deep learning, machine learning, and AI.
• Develop and maintain robust codebases, ensuring high quality, readability, and testability.
• Contribute to the interpretation and dissemination of research findings through reports, presentations, and potentially publications.
• Mentor junior engineers and researchers in deep learning techniques and best practices.
• Evaluate and integrate new deep learning frameworks, libraries, and tools.
• Contribute to the overall research strategy and direction of the AI division.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in deep learning research and development.
• Proven experience in designing, training, and evaluating complex deep learning models (e.g., CNNs, RNNs, Transformers, GANs).
• Expertise in deep learning frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Keras.
• Strong programming skills in Python and experience with scientific computing libraries (NumPy, SciPy).
• Familiarity with distributed training, GPU computing, and high‑performance computing environments.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a strong research mindset.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research‑intensive environment.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts clearly.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) is a plus.
• A publication record in reputable AI/ML conferences or journals is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and research grants.
• Comprehensive health, retirement, and wellness benefits.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, attending leading conferences, and contributing to academic publications.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art computing resources and research facilities.
• Work on intellectually stimulating and impactful AI research projects.
• Collaborative and dynamic research environment in Pretoria .
• Potential for flexible working arrangements.