Lead Ai Software Engineer
Summary
Lead a team of AI software engineers on-site in Kimberley, South Africa, owning the full SDLC for AI/ML projects from architecture and coding through deployment and monitoring, while mentoring engineers. Core stack: Python/Java/C++, TensorFlow/PyTorch, AWS/Azure/GCP, Docker/Kubernetes, MLOps.
Our client, a premier company in AI & Emerging Technologies, is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Lead AI Software Engineer to join their dedicated team in Kimberley, Northern Cape. This role is critical for designing, developing, and deploying robust AI-powered software solutions. You will lead a team of talented engineers, overseeing the entire software development lifecycle for AI projects, from concept to production. The ideal candidate possesses strong technical leadership, deep expertise in AI/ML implementation, and a passion for building scalable and efficient systems. Based in our Kimberley, Northern Cape office, this position requires your on-site presence to foster close team collaboration and direct project leadership. You will be instrumental in driving the technical direction of our AI initiatives, ensuring high-quality code and successful project outcomes. This is an excellent opportunity to mentor engineers and shape the future of AI software development.
Key Responsibilities- Lead a team of AI software engineers in the design, development, and deployment of AI/ML solutions.
- Architect scalable and robust software systems for AI applications.
- Write high-quality, maintainable, and efficient code for AI models and infrastructure.
- Oversee the entire software development lifecycle, including testing, deployment, and monitoring.
- Collaborate with AI researchers and data scientists to integrate models into production systems.
- Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering technical growth within the team.
- Define and enforce coding standards, best practices, and development processes.
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues.
- Stay current with emerging AI technologies and software engineering trends.
- Contribute to technical strategy and roadmap planning.
- Master's degree or Ph D in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
- 7+ years of experience in software engineering, with at least 4 years focused on AI/ML development.
- Proven experience leading engineering teams and managing software projects.
- Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Java, or C++.
- Deep understanding of AI/ML concepts, algorithms, and frameworks (e.g., Tensor Flow, Py Torch).
- Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes).
- Expertise in building scalable distributed systems.
- Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and analytical skills.
- Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Experience with MLOps principles and practices.
- Top-tier salary package:
- R per annum.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
- Generous vacation policy and company holidays.
- Opportunities for advanced training and professional development.
- Leadership role in a growing AI team at our Kimberley, Northern Cape location.
- Collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment.
- Performance-based bonuses and stock options.
- Retirement savings plan with company matching.