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, AutoGen
Knowledge of AI task automation including WhatsApp AI agents and business process automation
Experience with business process AI integration for form processing and decision-making automation
Familiarity with AI workflow deployment and task orchestration pipelines
Experience with AWS IoT Greengrass for deploying AI models at edge locations with intermittent connectivity
Experience in the mining or industrial sector
Familiarity with Agile development methodologies
Challenges and Opportunities
Technical Variety: Work across diverse AI technologies including LLMs, computer vision, and edge computing, providing exposure to cutting-edge AI applications
Real-World Impact: Build AI solutions that directly affect mining operations, with immediate visibility of how your AI models perform in industrial environments
Growth Environment: Join a rapidly expanding company entering new markets (Namibia and Botswana), with opportunities to shape AI development practices
Complex Problem Solving: Navigate multi-site environments where AI must operate with intermittent connectivity and integrate with existing hardware systems
Innovation Leadership: Opportunity to grow into a Lead AI Engineer role as AI adoption expands across mining operations
Cultural Fit
The ideal candidate will
Be passionate about AI development and continuously self-learn through tutorials, courses and personal projects outside of work hours
Take initiative in problem-solving, building innovative AI solutions for complex industrial challenges
Embrace collaboration and knowledge sharing, contributing to our client’s collective technical growth
Stay updated on AI trends, LLM advancements and automation best practices
Be willing to share in team responsibilities, including occasional after-hours support when needed
Adapt positively to changing priorities and evolving project requirements
View AI development as more than just a day job, continuously evolving your skills and expertise
Work 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 optimisation
Develop Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) pipelines for AI-powered knowledge retrieval and document search
Build AI-powered chatbots for WhatsApp, web and customer service automation integrated with mining operations
Develop vector databases (Pinecone, PostgreSQL pgvector) for structured AI-powered search and decision making
Implement image and text similarity search for AI-driven identity verification and security automation
Deploy AI models as scalable APIs using FastAPI or Flask for integration with existing mining systems
Develop AI-driven identity verification solutions using facial recognition (OpenCV, PyTorch, TensorFlow)
Design AI-powered computer vision models for automated image analysis and driver authentication
Optimise AI models for cloud-based and edge computing environments with intermittent connectivity
Use Docker to package and deploy AI models efficiently across remote mining locations
Collaborate 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 improvement
Exposure to cutting-edge AI technology and diverse technical challenges
Opportunity to shape AI development practices in a rapidly growing company
Real-world impact with immediate visibility of your contributions
Direct access to cutting-edge AI infrastructure and opportunity to grow into leadership roles
Black Pen Recruitment
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