AI Engineer (Technology/Mining)

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