Senior Software Engineer / AI Enabler (m/f/d)

AutoScout24 is on the hunt for a seasoned Senior Software Engineer who is also a passionate AI advocate. This role is for someone eager to be at the forefront of technological innovation, driving the adoption and practical application of Artificial Intelligence within the company's development processes. If you thrive in a dynamic environment where your ideas can take the lead and shape the future of how products are built, this remote opportunity could be your next career acceleration.

Embracing the AI-First Mindset

As a Senior Software Engineer at AutoScout24, you will be an integral part of a "builders' team," dedicated to crafting exceptional products that resonate with customers. A core aspect of this position involves infusing an AI-first perspective into every stage of the product lifecycle. This means going beyond traditional development practices and actively incorporating Generative AI (GenAI) tools to enhance design, coding, testing, deployment, and ongoing operations. You'll be working directly within existing, real-world product codebases, leveraging the power of GenAI to expedite development cycles, elevate the quality of your output, and streamline existing systems.

Furthermore, you will play a crucial role in building and refining AI-powered internal tools and workflows. These will be essential resources, designed to empower engineers across AutoScout24, improving their daily productivity and efficiency. Beyond technical contributions, this role demands a multiplier effect. You'll be expected to act as a culture driver, actively coaching teams on the effective use of GenAI, sharing best practices and common pitfalls, and helping to embed AI-first ways of working into the company's DNA. A key element of success will be your ability to experiment, measure results, and iterate. This involves conducting small, data-informed experiments with development teams, understanding what works best within AutoScout24's specific context, and then transforming these successful approaches into repeatable, scalable standards.

What You'll Bring to the Table

AutoScout24 is seeking candidates with a robust technical foundation and a forward-thinking approach to AI. You should possess at least five years of deep, hands-on experience in building production systems. While proficiency in TypeScript/Node.js or Java/Spring Boot, deployed on cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or GCP, is highly desirable, the ability to adapt and learn is paramount. You must have a proven track record of working within substantial codebases and consistently delivering well-tested, maintainable features.

Crucially, you need to demonstrate excellence in utilising GenAI coding tools to significantly boost development speed and enhance overall quality. Experience in integrating Large Language Model (LLM) APIs into applications or tools is also a key requirement. Beyond technical skills, AutoScout24 values strong interpersonal abilities. Excellent communication and influencing skills are essential for effectively collaborating with and guiding development teams. A curious and growth-oriented mindset is vital, as is a pragmatic understanding of GenAI, acknowledging both its immense potential and its inherent limitations and risks.

In South Africa, senior software engineering roles, particularly those involving specialised AI skills, are in high demand. While specific remuneration varies greatly by company size, industry, and exact skill set, engineers with this level of expertise and a focus on emerging technologies like AI often command competitive salaries. Common employers include technology companies, financial services, e-commerce platforms, and automotive-related businesses. The career path for such a role typically involves opportunities for technical leadership, architectural design, and potentially managing AI initiatives or teams, offering significant scope for professional growth.

• Deep, hands-on experience building production systems (at least 5 years), ideally with TypeScript/Node.js or Java/Spring Boot on AWS, Azure or GCP.
• Proven experience working in large codebases and delivering well-tested, maintainable features.
• Demonstrated excellence in using GenAI coding tools to improve development speed and quality.
• Experience integrating LLM APIs into applications or tools.
• Strong communication and influencing skills.
• A curious, growth-oriented mindset.
• A pragmatic view of GenAI, understanding its limitations and risks.