Principal ML Engineer

Principal ML Engineer

Full-Time 80000 - 100000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
NearTech Search

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the design and evolution of AI production pipelines for advanced Computer Vision systems.
  • Company: Innovative AI company focused on real-world visual intelligence technology.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Join a dynamic team with a strong engineering culture and significant influence.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact by building cutting-edge AI solutions that operate at scale.
  • Qualifications: Proven experience in ML/Computer Vision, strong Python and C++ skills, leadership experience.

The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.

I’m currently partnering with a highly innovative AI company building advanced Computer Vision and visual intelligence technology deployed at global scale. This is not a research-only role or a position focused on experimenting in isolation. The company is looking for someone who can take ownership of the entire AI production lifecycle - from raw data collection and training pipelines through to robust, production-ready models operating in demanding environments. The role is ideal for someone who combines deep technical expertise with a hands-on approach to engineering and leadership.

The Opportunity

  • You will lead the design and evolution of the company’s AI production pipeline, covering data ingestion, organisation, annotation strategy, model training, validation, optimisation, deployment, and monitoring.
  • The focus is on building industrial-grade Computer Vision systems that perform reliably outside the lab - with real constraints around latency, scalability, reliability, and throughput.
  • You’ll work closely with Engineering, Product, and AI teams to ensure research and technical innovation translate directly into commercial impact.
  • This role also comes with significant influence internally. You’ll have the autonomy to help shape the structure, standards, and direction of the AI/ML function, while hiring and developing a high-performing international team.

Key Responsibilities

  • Own and scale the end-to-end AI/ML production lifecycle.
  • Build high-performance Computer Vision systems for production deployment.
  • Drive development across Object Detection, Segmentation, Tracking, and Transformer-based architectures.
  • Define standards across MLOps, model quality, deployment, monitoring, and engineering best practice.
  • Improve the speed and efficiency of taking models from raw data to production.
  • Work cross-functionally with Product and Engineering teams on long-term technical strategy.
  • Hire, mentor, and grow AI/ML engineering teams across multiple locations.
  • Establish scalable team structures, workflows, and delivery processes within an Agile environment.

Requirements

  • Proven track record delivering ML or Computer Vision products into production at scale.
  • Strong expertise across modern Computer Vision techniques and deep learning architectures.
  • Excellent Python and C++ engineering skills.
  • Experience optimising training and inference pipelines for real-world deployment.
  • Strong systems and engineering mindset alongside deep ML knowledge.
  • Previous experience leading technical teams while remaining hands-on.
  • MSc or PhD in Computer Science, Machine Learning, or a related field preferred.

The company offers a strong engineering culture, high levels of technical ownership, and the opportunity to work on difficult AI problems with direct real-world impact. If you are interested in applying, please apply through the link.

Principal ML Engineer employer: NearTech Search

This innovative AI company in Manchester offers a dynamic work environment where you can take ownership of the entire AI production lifecycle, leading the design and evolution of cutting-edge Computer Vision systems. With a strong engineering culture that prioritises technical ownership and collaboration, employees benefit from significant growth opportunities, mentorship, and the chance to work on impactful projects that shape the future of AI technology. The hybrid or remote working options further enhance work-life balance, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
NearTech Search

Contact Detail:

NearTech Search Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal ML Engineer

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend meetups, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.

✨Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your projects, especially those related to Computer Vision and ML. This will give you an edge and demonstrate your hands-on experience to potential employers.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by brushing up on technical questions and real-world problem-solving scenarios. Practice explaining your thought process clearly, as communication is key when leading teams and projects.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!

We think you need these skills to ace Principal ML Engineer

AI/ML Production Lifecycle Management
Computer Vision
Object Detection
Segmentation
Tracking
Transformer-based Architectures
MLOps
Model Quality Assurance
Deployment Strategies
Monitoring Techniques
Python Programming
C++ Engineering
Optimisation of Training and Inference Pipelines
Systems Engineering Mindset
Team Leadership and Mentoring

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Principal ML Engineer role. Highlight your expertise in Computer Vision and any relevant projects you've led, as this will show us you're a great fit for the position.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about AI/ML and how your hands-on experience can contribute to our innovative projects. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm!

Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t hold back on showcasing your technical prowess! Include specific examples of your work with Python, C++, and any modern Computer Vision techniques. This helps us see your depth of knowledge and practical application.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the process smoother for everyone involved!

How to prepare for a job interview at NearTech Search

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Computer Vision and ML techniques. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, especially those that involved taking models from raw data to production. This shows you have the hands-on experience they’re looking for.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

Since this role involves leading a team, be prepared to talk about your previous leadership experiences. Share examples of how you've mentored others or driven a project to success. Highlighting your ability to inspire and guide a team will set you apart.

✨Understand Their Tech Stack

Familiarise yourself with the tools and technologies the company uses, particularly in Python and C++. If you can demonstrate your proficiency in these areas during the interview, it’ll show you’re ready to hit the ground running.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

Prepare thoughtful questions about their AI production pipeline and how they measure success. This not only shows your genuine interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the company aligns with your career goals.

Land your dream job quicker with Premium

You’re marked as a top applicant with our partner companies
Individual CV and cover letter feedback including tailoring to specific job roles
Be among the first applications for new jobs with our AI application
1:1 support and career advice from our career coaches
Go Premium

Money-back if you don't land a job in 6-months

>