Lead Machine Learning Engineer - AI Ethics

Our client, a renowned innovator in artificial intelligence solutions, is seeking an exceptional Lead Machine Learning Engineer to spearhead their new AI Ethics division. Based in the vibrant hub of Randburg, Gauteng , this role is critical in ensuring the responsible and ethical development and deployment of AI technologies. You will be instrumental in designing, implementing, and evaluating machine learning models that prioritize fairness, transparency, and accountability.

This is a unique opportunity to shape the ethical landscape of AI, working on cutting-edge projects that have real-world implications. The ideal candidate will possess a deep technical understanding of ML, coupled with a strong ethical framework and a passion for social responsibility. You will lead a dedicated team, collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders, and contribute to shaping the company's AI ethics policies and best practices.

This position offers the chance to work at the forefront of AI innovation while making a positive societal impact.

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of machine learning models with a focus on ethical considerations such as fairness, bias detection, and explainability.
• Develop and maintain frameworks and tools for auditing and evaluating AI systems for ethical compliance.
• Collaborate with data scientists, software engineers, and product managers to integrate ethical AI principles into the entire ML lifecycle.
• Research and stay current with the latest advancements in AI ethics, responsible AI, and related fields.
• Define and implement metrics and methodologies for assessing the societal impact of AI systems.
• Present research findings, ethical guidelines, and project outcomes to technical and non-technical audiences, including senior leadership.
• Mentor and guide a team of machine learning engineers and data scientists on ethical AI practices.
• Contribute to the development of internal policies and external best practices for responsible AI development.
• Identify potential ethical risks and biases in AI algorithms and propose mitigation strategies.
• Ensure all developed AI systems align with regulatory requirements and industry standards.

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Statistics, or a related field with a strong focus on machine learning and ethics.
• 5+ years of experience in machine learning engineering, with a significant portion dedicated to responsible AI, fairness, or explainability.
• Proven experience in developing and deploying production-level ML models.
• Deep understanding of various ML algorithms, statistical modeling, and data mining techniques.
• Expertise in techniques for bias detection, mitigation, and fairness‑aware ML.
• Proficiency in Python and ML libraries such as Tensor Flow, PyTorch, scikit-learn.
• Experience with model interpretability tools (e.g., SHAP, LIME) is essential.
• Strong understanding of ethical frameworks, AI governance, and relevant regulations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment in Randburg, Gauteng .

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous annual leave and public holiday allowance.
• Contribution to a reputable pension fund.
• Professional development opportunities, including specialized training and conference attendance.
• Access to cutting‑edge AI research infrastructure and resources.
• Opportunity to work on impactful projects that shape the future of AI.
• Flexible working arrangements considered for exceptional candidates.
• On‑site amenities and a vibrant office culture.
• Chance to lead a pioneering initiative in AI ethics.