Junior AI Developer (Open to National Offices) at BDO South Africa

Primary Purpose of the Job


The Junior AI Developer will support the design, development, and deployment of AI-driven solutions that enhance business processes and decision-making across the organisation. This role is ideal for an early-career professional with a strong interest in artificial intelligence, data, and automation, who is eager to learn and grow under the guidance of senior technical staff.


Main Duties and Responsibilities


Assist in designing, building, and implementing agent-based workflows and autonomous or semi-autonomous AI agents (e.g. Microsoft Copilot Agents) under supervision.
Design, develop, and deploy AI and machine learning solutions, including NLP, predictive analytics, classification, and generative AI.
Develop and maintain AI-driven automations, chatbots, integrations, and supporting scripts.
Integrate AI solutions with enterprise systems, APIs, databases, and reporting platforms.
Work with structured and unstructured data to support model training, inference, validation, and performance analysis.
Support the implementation of AI use cases using platforms such as Azure AI, Microsoft Copilot Studio, Power Platform, or similar tools.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams including developers, data analysts, business users, and compliance teams.
Contribute to technical documentation, specifications, and user guides.
Adhere to data governance, security, and responsible AI/ethics guidelines.
Work within and contribute to all phases of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
Stay current with emerging AI technologies, tools, and best practices


Requirements
Qualifications


Bachelor's degree in computer science, Engineering, Data Science, Information Systems, or Equivalent Practical Experience


Work Experience


0-3 years' relevant experience


Knowledge


Core AI/ML concepts (including generative AI and NLP), data structures, data quality, and validation principles.
Foundational knowledge of Python, SQL, relational databases, APIs, and system integration concepts.
Familiarity with enterprise AI and automation platforms (e.g. Azure AI, Azure OpenAI, Copilot Studio, Power Automate) and basic SDLC concepts
Understanding of responsible AI principles, data privacy, security, ethics, auditability, and controlled deployments


Competencies: Technical & Behavioural

Technical Competencies


Assist in building AI-powered features, designing and testing prompts, and contributing to chatbots, agents, or automation solutions
Prepare and validate data, write basic Python and SQL, consume APIs, and integrate AI outputs into systems and workflows.
Use AI platforms with guidance, follow development standards, apply version control, and adhere to deployment processes.
Test AI outputs, follow governance and compliance guidelines, document solutions clearly, and translate business requirements into technical outcomes


Behavioural & Professional Competencies


Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Curious, eager to learn, and proactive in upskilling.
Good communication skills with the ability to explain technical concepts simply.
Ability to work well in a team and take direction from senior staff.
Attention to detail and a commitment to quality