AI Engineer

Job Description

When it comes to putting people first, we're number 1.

The number 1 Top Employer in South Africa.
Certified by the Top Employer Institute 2026.

Role Purpose/Business Unit:

The Software Engineer will be responsible for designing, building, and optimizing scalable software solutions that integrate AI and GenAI to unlock business value. The role focuses on developing robust, cloud-native, and distributed systems, collaborating closely with the Big Data and RPA teams, and ensuring high-performance production deployments. While prior AI/ML expertise is not required, a strong foundation in scalable software engineering and a willingness to learn AI technologies is essential.

This role is ideal for a highly skilled software engineer who is interested in working on AI-driven innovation within a business-focused technology unit. Training in GenAI and AI model integration will be provided, but a strong foundation in distributed systems, cloud, and scalable architectures is a must.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Design and develop scalable backend systems for high-volume, distributed applications.
• Develop and optimize cloud-native architectures using public cloud services (AWS, Azure, or GCP).
• Implement and maintain APIs and microservices for seamless AI and automation integration.
• Develop CI/CD pipelines and automation frameworks for reliable deployments.
• Collaborate with AI/ML teams to integrate AI-driven functionalities into software solutions.
• Ensure system security, reliability, and performance through best practices.
• Provide Level 2/3 technical support for production systems, debugging critical issues.
• Actively learn and upskill in AI and GenAI technologies as part of an innovation-focused team.

The ideal candidate for this role will have:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in software engineering, with a focus on scalable systems.
• Proven experience deploying and maintaining production-grade applications in cloud environments.
• Hands-on experience with CI/CD, automation, and modern DevOps practices.
• Previous exposure to AI/ML projects is an advantage but not required.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset for complex technical challenges.
• Effective collaboration across cross-functional teams, including AI, Big Data, and RPA.
• Curiosity and adaptability, with a willingness to learn and experiment with AI-driven solutions.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of explaining technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Self-motivated and proactive, comfortable working in an innovative and evolving environment.

Core competencies, knowledge, and experience:

• Strong backend software engineering expertise in Python, Java, Go, or C++.
• Proficiency in building distributed systems, event-driven architectures, and microservices.
• Experience in cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP) and cloud-native development.
• Strong DevOps and CI/CD skills, including Docker, Kubernetes, Terraform, and GitHub Actions.
• Database management expertise (SQL & NoSQL: PostgreSQL, MongoDB, DynamoDB, Redis).
• Experience designing RESTful and GraphQL APIs for high-performance applications.
• Knowledge of security best practices in cloud and application development.
• Understanding of data streaming technologies (Kafka, RabbitMQ) is a plus.
• Curiosity and ability to learn AI/ML concepts (training will be provided).

We make an impact by offering:

• Enticing incentive programs and competitive benefit packages
• Retirement funds, risk benefits, and medical aid benefits
• Cell phone and data benefits, advantages fibre connection discounts, and exclusive staff discounts offered in collaboration with partner companies

Closing date for Applications: 05 February 2026

The base location for this role is Midrand, Vodacom Campus

The company's approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply.
Vodacom is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates, and values diversity & inclusion.