Senior AI engineer

Lead industrial AI projects at Kapernikov, a 30-person Belgian team turning complex data into safer, smarter rail, manufacturing, and energy operations. Combine hands-on AI and solid software engineering (Python, C++, Docker/Kubernetes, open-source) to build and deploy machine-vision and data-heavy systems. Mentor colleagues, shape architectures, and work directly with customers. We value autonomy, transparency, and real work-life balance—with flexible schedules, training support, and a friendly team (plus Thursday lunches). Fluency in English and Dutch or French and proven AI design experience required.

We are Kapernikov

Kapernikov innovates together with its customers to get the most out of their data. We help railways, manufacturing plants, and infrastructure companies turn complex data into real-world improvements—like safer maintenance operations and smarter energy use. Our 30-person team has been building machine-vision and data-heavy applications since 2011.

We start from our customer's goals to select the best technology and, when no off-the-shelf solution fits, we create custom ones, working side by side with customer teams to combine our expertise. Many come to us with challenges too niche, too uncertain, or too costly for existing technology. Together we explore options, test ideas, and innovate toward practical results—or reach an early, honest conclusion when something truly proves impossible.

We run on transparency and accountability, giving every engineer autonomy to decide and build. Work-life balance isn't a slogan; it's baked into how we plan projects and schedules. Every Thursday we share a company-paid lunch—great food and even better team spirit.

We're looking for a lead developer / software architect

Building industrial AI applications demands a diverse and specialized skillset, encompassing not only advanced technical proficiency in areas like machine learning and data science, but also a deep understanding of specific industrial processes and operational environments.

From data acquisition and preprocessing to model development, deployment, and ongoing maintenance, each stage presents unique challenges that require a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on experience. In the end we want to improve life on the production floor, train, boat or windmill.

While the AI aspect of these applications is in the spotlight nowadays, the software engineering challenges are as important for the success of a project. Good software design, swift performance, professional deployment, scalability are among the key ingredients.

On the non-AI technology front:

• Our projects are mostly done in Python and C++. For web UIs we often use Typescript and Angular. When selecting technology, we have a bias towards open source software.
• We use Linux everywhere, and most of our software is built and runs in containers, using technologies like Docker and Kubernetes.
• Networking is an aspect of almost every software project we do. A good understanding of how TCP/IP traffic works and is routed can make the difference between taking days or minutes to solve a problem.

What you bring

• A Master's degree in software engineering, AI, mathematics or a similar background through experience.
• You grasp the mathematics behind machine learning and can select, adapt, or design models beyond off-the-shelf solutions.
• Passion for technology and a broad perspective on AI trends, with the curiosity to keep learning.
• Proven experience designing complex systems and leading AI projects, with a strong problem-solving mindset.
• Fluent communication in English and either Dutch or French.

We offer you an interesting job in a modern company

• Challenging problems that require your innovative thinking.
• Cool projects where the software you write actually controls part of the world.
• A lot of freedom to organize your work the way that suits you best.
• A friendly team to spar with and learn from.
• Training to keep you up to date in your area of expertise and also to learn something about interesting stuff a bit further away.
• A working environment where your talents are appreciated.
• The chance to get paid to do what you love to do.

We love to hear from you

Like what we do? And think we're looking for you? Drop us a line and your CV at and we'll invite you for a conversation, either in real life or online, depending on where you are.

We typically have two or three interviews. You'll talk to various people within Kapernikov (at least a partner and a senior AI engineer) to cover both your and our questions on all aspects of our collaboration. We prefer that you convince us with something you built that we can discuss together.

Job Types: Permanent contract, Freelance

Benefits:

• Bicycle plan
• Commuter assistance
• Company computer
• Company phone
• Eco vouchers
• Food allowance
• Hospitalization insurance
• Internet reimbursement
• Work from home

Ability to commute/relocate:

• 1070 Brussel: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in 1070 Brussel