Lead Software & AI Engineer
Summary
Lead a four-person software team at a defence/automotive systems manufacturer in Adelaide, combining hands-on development in Python, C/C++ and Django with architecture, delivery management, and coaching. The role spans embedded software, full-stack web apps, ERP integration and practical AI/automation solutions.
Salary: $160,000 – $180,000 pa + super
About Us
Aphise is a specialist recruitment consultancy connecting professionals with opportunities across engineering, technology and executive leadership. We work closely with our clients to understand their businesses and match candidates with roles where they can contribute and grow.
About Our Client
Our client designs and manufactures advanced suspension, motion-control and automated handling systems for defence, automotive and other demanding technical applications.
Based in Holden Hill, Adelaide, the business brings together engineering, software and manufacturing expertise to develop complex technologies for Australian and international customers.
About the Role
We are seeking a Lead Software & AI Engineer to provide technical leadership, develop a team of four and drive reliable delivery across embedded software, full-stack applications, AI development and systems integration.
Reporting to the Principal Engineer / Chief Executive Officer, you will combine hands-on development with architecture decisions, workload planning, coaching and engineering governance.
This is an opportunity to build software that supports physical products and business operations, while introducing practical AI and automation solutions that deliver measurable improvements.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the design and development of embedded software, full-stack applications and web-based solutions using Python, C/C++ and Django.
Prioritise workloads, manage delivery risks and guide multiple concurrent software work packages.
Lead, coach and develop four direct reports, building technical capability and accountability.
Develop and integrate practical AI solutions using generative AI, machine learning and AI APIs.
Connect applications, ERP systems and enterprise platforms through REST APIs, OData APIs and other integration technologies.
Oversee databases and deployment technologies, including SQL/PostgreSQL, Redis and Docker.
Maintain strong requirements, architecture, code-review, testing, Git, configuration-management and release practices.
Coordinate integration with electrical, mechanical, systems, production and IT teams.
Resolve recurring defects through structured root-cause analysis and verified corrective actions.
Improve software quality, automation, test coverage and delivery efficiency while meeting applicable safety, quality and cybersecurity requirements.
About You
You are a technically capable software professional who enjoys developing people and taking ownership of delivery. You can translate complex requirements into practical solutions, make sound technical decisions and maintain high engineering standards.
You will bring:
A relevant qualification in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Mechatronics or a related discipline, or equivalent demonstrated experience.
Experience as a senior software engineer, full-stack developer or technical lead, including responsibility for multiple concurrent work packages.
Strong development capability in Python, C/C++ and Django, supported by front-end and back-end experience.
Experience with SQL/PostgreSQL, REST APIs, OData APIs and ERP or enterprise systems integration.
Experience with workflow automation and deployment technologies, including Redis and Docker.
Knowledge or practical experience in AI development and integrating AI-enabled capabilities into applications.
Strong understanding of software architecture, version control, verification, defect management and controlled releases.
The ability to coach engineers, set priorities and communicate clearly with technical and business stakeholders.
Experience with MATLAB/Simulink, embedded control systems, Qt or similar UI frameworks, and AI development frameworks will be highly regarded.
Australian citizenship is preferred. Appointment is subject to successful workforce screening, with ongoing suitability checks where required.
Why Join?
Take ownership of technical outcomes and the development of a focused engineering team.
Work across embedded systems, enterprise applications and emerging AI technologies.
Collaborate with engineers from multiple disciplines in an advanced technology environment.
Introduce improvements that make a measurable difference to products, processes and delivery.
Apply Now
If you enjoy hands-on engineering, developing people and turning complex requirements into reliable software, we would like to hear from you.
Apply through SEEK with your CV outlining your relevant software, leadership and AI or automation experience.