Our client is a growing technology company that revolutionises mining logistics across South Africa. Their platform connects mines and hauliers, automating vehicle tracking, order management and weighbridge operations using NFC technology and IoT devices integrated with AWS Cloud.
Role Overview
Our client is seeking an AI Engineer to develop and deploy AI-powered models, chatbot interactions and intelligent automation solutions that transform mining operations across South Africa. You'll focus on large language models (LLMs), vector search, AI-driven verification and scalable AI deployment to improve security, process automation and decision-making in real-world industrial environments.
Their core values include Focus on the Mission, Respect, Excellence, Integrity and working as One Team.
JobType : Permanent, Full-time
Workplace : Hybrid / Remote
Location : Lonehill, Sandton, South Africa
Requirements
- Strong experience with LLMs and NLP including GPT-4, OpenAI API, and fine-tuning transformer models
- Proficiency with vector databases such as Pinecone and PostgreSQL pgvector
- Experience with Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) for AI-powered knowledge retrieval and document search
- Hands-on experience with chatbot development including AI-powered integrations for WhatsApp, web and API-based automation
- Strong computer vision skills using OpenCV, PyTorch, TensorFlow for facial recognition and image analysis
- Experience with AI API development and deploying AI services using FastAPI, Flask or GraphQL
- Knowledge of cloud and edge AI deployment on AWS and on-premise devices
- Proficiency with Docker for packaging and deploying AI models in scalable environments
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to build innovative AI solutions for real-world applications
- Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
- Ability to work independently and take ownership of AI challenges in industrial environments
Preferred Skills
Experience with AI workflow automation tools such as n8n, LangChain, AutoGenKnowledge of AI task automation including WhatsApp AI agents and business process automationExperience with business process AI integration for form processing and decision-making automationFamiliarity with AI workflow deployment and task orchestration pipelinesExperience with AWS IoT Greengrass for deploying AI models at edge locations with intermittent connectivityExperience in the mining or industrial sectorFamiliarity with Agile development methodologiesChallenges and Opportunities
Technical Variety : Work across diverse AI technologies including LLMs, computer vision, and edge computing, providing exposure to cutting-edge AI applicationsReal-World Impact : Build AI solutions that directly affect mining operations, with immediate visibility of how your AI models perform in industrial environmentsGrowth Environment : Join a rapidly expanding company entering new markets (Namibia and Botswana), with opportunities to shape AI development practicesComplex Problem Solving : Navigate multi-site environments where AI must operate with intermittent connectivity and integrate with existing hardware systemsInnovation Leadership : Opportunity to grow into a Lead AI Engineer role as AI adoption expands across mining operationsCultural Fit
The ideal candidate will
Be passionate about AI development and continuously self-learn through tutorials, courses and personal projects outside of work hoursTake initiative in problem-solving, building innovative AI solutions for complex industrial challengesEmbrace collaboration and knowledge sharing, contributing to our client’s collective technical growthStay updated on AI trends, LLM advancements and automation best practicesBe willing to share in team responsibilities, including occasional after-hours support when neededAdapt positively to changing priorities and evolving project requirementsView AI development as more than just a day job, continuously evolving your skills and expertiseWork Arrangement
This is a full-time, on-site position based in our client’s Lonehill, Sandton office. Core hours of 8 : 00 AM to 3 : 00 PM apply for all team members. The role requires being physically present for close collaboration with their development team and integration with hardware systems to deliver mission-critical AI solutions for the mining industry.
Responsibilities
Implement and fine-tune LLMs (GPT, Claude, Llama, OpenAI API) for AI-driven automation and workflow optimisationDevelop Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) pipelines for AI-powered knowledge retrieval and document searchBuild AI-powered chatbots for WhatsApp, web and customer service automation integrated with mining operationsDevelop vector databases (Pinecone, PostgreSQL pgvector) for structured AI-powered search and decision makingImplement image and text similarity search for AI-driven identity verification and security automationDeploy AI models as scalable APIs using FastAPI or Flask for integration with existing mining systemsDevelop AI-driven identity verification solutions using facial recognition (OpenCV, PyTorch, TensorFlow)Design AI-powered computer vision models for automated image analysis and driver authenticationOptimise AI models for cloud-based and edge computing environments with intermittent connectivityUse Docker to package and deploy AI models efficiently across remote mining locationsCollaborate with the development team to integrate AI solutions into React apps, Node.js services and database systems.Benefits
Investment in learning opportunities for developers committed to continuous improvementExposure to cutting-edge AI technology and diverse technical challengesOpportunity to shape AI development practices in a rapidly growing companyReal-world impact with immediate visibility of your contributionsDirect access to cutting-edge AI infrastructure and opportunity to grow into leadership roles