Senior Developer: Computer Vision/Human Computer Interaction/Game Development at Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

About the job:

The CSIR has a vacancy for a Senior Developer: Computer Vision/HCI/Game Development in the Emerging Digital Technologies for fourth Industrial Revolution (EDT4IR) Research Centre within the Next Generation Enterprises and Institutions Cluster. The incumbent will be responsible for researching, designing and implementing Augmented, Mixed, and Virtual Reality technology to deliver innovative, high-impact solutions to government and industry stakeholders. S/He will have the opportunity to work with cutting edge Extended Reality (XR) hardware and software and explore XR integrations with other 4IR technologies. This position is based in Pretoria.

Key responsibilities:

• Conceptualise, design and prototype image/3-Dimension (3D) detection/tracking/interaction modules with technical requirements for 3D/Extended Reality (XR) solutions using C++, C#, Python or JavaScript;
• Generate and contribute towards science engineering and technology (SET) activity targets and outputs (reports, guidelines, system requirements, peer-reviewed publications, technology, and software packages, etc.);
• Create and maintain the codebase, ensure code quality, performance, and modularity;
• Optimize prototype performance, including graphics rendering, memory management, and network synchronization;
• Conduct thorough testing and debugging of prototypes, identify and resolve defects and issues;
• Implement game functionality for artificial intelligence, computer vision, or haptic interaction;
• Understand and interpret client requirements to contribute to user requirement analysis and/or well-articulated project proposals;
• Keep up to date on emerging trends in XR/Computer Vision Technology in relation to new approaches, tools, methods, or frameworks;
• Participate in internal task teams or committees in relevant domains;
• Participate and engage in relevant XR/Computer Vision communities to grow networks and capabilities;
• Assist junior staff in the area(s) of expertise.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• A Diploma in computer systems engineering, information technology or related fields to Extended Reality with at least seven years’ experience in extended reality software development; OR
• A Bachelor’s degree in computer systems/computer engineering, information technology or related fields with at least five years' experience in extended reality software development;
• Proven experience in Computer Vision or Game Development systems and frameworks, or a similar role, showcasing a portfolio of completed games or game development projects;

The following skills or similar will be advantageous:

• Computer Vision;
• Human Computer Interaction;
• Shader Language;
• Game development.
• Must be passionate, creative and open to experimental research and continuous learning to keep up with the fast pace of innovation in XR;
• Must be proficient in programming languages such as C++, C#, Python, HTML or JavaScript, and experience with Unity, Unreal Engine, Tensorflow, OpenCV, etc.
• Knowledge of graphics programming, shaders, and rendering pipelines would be advantageous;
• Familiarity with version control systems (Git), Agile development methodologies, and collaborative development practices;
• Excellent problem-solving and debugging skills to identify and resolve technical issues;
• Passion for gaming and a deep understanding of various game genres and player experiences;
• Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team;
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment;
• Creative thinking and a strong attention to detail to create memorable and immersive gaming experiences.