Senior Machine Learning Engineer - Predictive Analytics

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Medical insurance including hospital,药

Paid time off and sick leave

Professional development programs

Hybrid work model

Career progression opportunities

Pension fund and life assurance

Access to advanced infrastructure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Machine Learning Engineer to design, develop, and deploy scalable ML models for predictive analytics in Pretoria. The role emphasizes building robust ML pipelines, MLOps, and collaboration with data scientists in a hybrid work setting.

Ideal candidates will have 5+ years of hands-on ML experience, strong Python skills, and proficiency with Scikit-Learn, TensorFlow or PyTorch, plus experience with Spark/Hadoop and cloud platforms.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in CS/DS/Statistics or related quantitative field.
• 5+ years hands-on ML engineering experience with production deployments.
• Strong Python skills and experience with ML libraries (Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Experience with big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop) and SQL/NoSQL databases.
• Proficiency with MLOps tools (Docker, Kubernetes, MLflow).
• Solid understanding of statistical modeling and data mining.

Responsibilities

• Design, train, and deploy ML models for predictive tasks (forecasting, classification, anomaly detection).
• Build production ML pipelines for ingestion, feature engineering, training, and deployment.
• Collaborate with data scientists and stakeholders to translate requirements into solutions.
• Optimize models for performance, scalability, and efficiency in production environments.
• Implement and manage MLOps practices including monitoring and CI/CD for models.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to ML best practices.
• Conduct A/B testing and performance analyses of deployed models.

Skills

Python

Communication

ML model development

Education

Master's or PhD in Computer Science / Data Science / Statistics

Tools

Scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Spark

Hadoop

Docker

Kubernetes

MLflow

AWS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic player in the AI & Emerging Technologies sector, is looking for a seasoned Senior Machine Learning Engineer to join their innovative team in Pretoria, Gauteng, ZA . This role focuses on developing and deploying sophisticated machine learning models for predictive analytics. You will play a crucial role in leveraging data to drive business decisions, improve operational efficiency, and create new opportunities. The ideal candidate possesses a strong blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience in building robust, scalable ML systems. Working in a hybrid model, you will have the opportunity to collaborate closely with a talented group of data scientists and engineers. Join us to make a tangible impact and advance your career in a rapidly evolving field.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, build, train, and deploy machine learning models for various predictive tasks, including forecasting, classification, and anomaly detection.
• Develop and maintain production-level ML pipelines for data ingestion, feature engineering, model training, and deployment.
• Collaborate with data scientists and business stakeholders to understand requirements and translate them into technical solutions.
• Optimize ML models for performance, scalability, and efficiency in production environments.
• Implement and manage MLOps practices, including monitoring, versioning, and CI/CD for ML models.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in machine learning algorithms and tools.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to best practices within the ML engineering team.
• Conduct A/B testing and performance analysis of deployed models.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to ML systems in production.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative field.
• 5+ years of hands‑on experience in machine learning engineering, with a proven track record of deploying models into production.
• Strong programming skills in Python and experience with ML libraries such as Scikit‑learn, TensorFlow, or PyTorch.
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and databases (SQL, NoSQL).
• Proficiency in MLOps tools and practices (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes, MLflow).
• Solid understanding of statistical modeling, data mining, and algorithmic principles.
• Excellent problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, especially in a hybrid work setting.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) is highly desirable.
• Must reside in or be willing to commute to Pretoria, Gauteng, ZA for hybrid work requirements.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a strong base salary and performance-related incentives.
• Employees are entitled to comprehensive medical insurance, covering hospitalization, medication, and specialist visits.
• We provide ample paid time off, including vacation days and sick leave.
• The company supports continuous professional development through training programs, workshops, and conference attendance.
• Access to advanced technological infrastructure and resources is guaranteed.
• This role offers significant career progression opportunities within a forward-thinking organization.
• Pension fund and life assurance benefits are also included.
• The hybrid work model promotes flexibility and work‑life balance.