Senior Python Developer (Machine Learning / Artificial Intelligence)

Frostbyte; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 800 000 - 1 200 000; Part time

Job summary

A technology consultancy is seeking a Senior Python Developer specializing in AI and Machine Learning. The ideal candidate will have over 7 years of experience, with a strong background in Python and AI/ML product delivery. Responsibilities include designing and deploying AI systems, managing data pipelines, and collaboration across teams. Knowledge of frameworks like TensorFlow and hands-on experience with Docker and Azure ML are essential. This is a contract position in Johannesburg.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of professional software engineering experience, with 3+ years focused on AI / ML.
• Advanced proficiency in Python for AI / ML applications.
• Strong understanding of LLMs and familiarity with NLP techniques.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy AI / ML systems into production.
• Orchestrate scalable data pipelines focused on quality and reliability.
• Own the full AI / ML lifecycle from model training to deployment.

Skills

Advanced proficiency in Python

AI / ML expertise

Experience with CI/CD

Hands-on experience with Databricks

Proven ability to design RESTful APIs

Strong experience with ML frameworks

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

Honours or Master's degree

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Scikit-learn

Docker

Kubernetes

Apache Spark

MLflow

Azure ML

Job description

Senior Python Developer (Machine Learning / Artificial Intelligence)

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Python Software Engineer – AI / ML to join our team.

The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in Python and end-to-end AI / ML product delivery, with strong experience in Large Language Models (LLMs), data engineering, and MLOps frameworks.

Hands‑on exposure to Databricks, Data Foundry, MLflow, Prefect, and Azure ML tooling will be highly advantageous.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and deploy AI / ML systems into production environments.

Orchestrate and manage scalable data pipelines with a focus on quality, reliability, and efficiency.

Own the full AI / ML lifecycle.

Data ingestion, preprocessing, and validation.

Model training, fine‑tuning, validation, and optimization.

Deployment, monitoring, and scaling in production.

Continuous evaluation and improvement.

Implement scalable and maintainable code aligned with modern development practices (CI/CD, testing, reviews).

Develop APIs and microservices to integrate AI / ML solutions into enterprise platforms.

Work with containerization and orchestration technologies (Docker, Kubernetes) to enable cloud‑native AI solutions.

Collaborate cross‑functionally to deliver business‑focused AI capabilities.

Core Competencies & Requirements

AI / ML Expertise

Strong understanding of LLMs (fine‑tuning, embeddings, integration, and deployment).

Familiarity with NLP techniques and advanced ML workflows.

Software Engineering

Advanced proficiency in Python for AI / ML applications.

Skilled in scalable, maintainable code design and architecture.

Experience with CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, and modern development best practices.

Hands‑on experience with Databricks, Data Foundry, and Apache Spark for large‑scale data processing.

Ability to build and maintain ETL/ELT pipelines with strong validation and governance.

Knowledge of pipeline orchestration frameworks such as Prefect (or Airflow).

MLOps & Frameworks

Practical experience with MLflow for tracking, orchestration, and reproducibility.

Strong knowledge of MLOps best practices and deployment strategies.

Hands‑on experience with Azure ML services (Data Factory, ML Studio, Synapse).

Azure certification will be considered an advantage.

Exposure to AWS or GCP is beneficial.

Experience with Docker and container orchestration (Kubernetes).

API Development & Microservices

Proven ability to design RESTful APIs and microservices.

Experience integrating AI models into production workflows.

Familiarity with observability best practices (metrics, logging, tracing).

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or related field (BSc required).

Honours or Master's degree in a relevant field will be an advantage.

7+ years of professional software engineering experience, with at least 3+ years focused on AI / ML.

Strong experience with ML frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Scikit‑learn.

Agile methodology experience and strong collaboration skills.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Contract

Job function

Engineering and Information Technology