AI Engineer

**Location:** Edgmond, Newport, Shropshire

**Position Type:** Full-time (Part time/Contract to be considered)

**About Us:**

Vertinetik is a cutting-edge technology company specializing in the development of predictive models for tree diseases using remote sensing. Our mission is to tackle climate risk head-on by pioneering a platform that harnesses the capabilities of UAV and satellite based remote sensing. Our goal is to safeguard our natural environment, enable large-scale nature restoration efforts, actively contribute to carbon removal initiatives, and leverage advanced Earth observation technology to build a resilient and sustainable future for our planet.

**Job Description:**

The purpose of this position is to work on a collaborative project between Vertinetik and the UK AgriTech Centre on developing predictive models of Ash Dieback and other tree diseases which can be integrated with decision support systems to inform management of England’s Ash trees. The project aims to provide an affordable solution to benefit smaller farmers and landowners in identifying disease infestations and taking proactive intervention measures to protect the economic and ecological value of Ash trees. The position will specifically contribute through surveying woodlands to validate drone survey data, and to process and analyse the drone survey data.

We are seeking an AI Developer to join our innovative team. Your role will focus on utilizing machine learning and deep learning technologies to advance our platform, which integrates UAV and satellite remote sensing data for environmental monitoring. You will play a vital role in developing systems that integrate remote sensing data for tree disease detection and vegetation monitoring, contributing to both post-processing and real-time image analysis. In this role, you will play a key part in the development of predictive models for tree disease detection and monitoring based on UAV and satellite remote sensing data.

The working hours of this position are 9am-5pm Monday to Friday (35 hours a week).

**Responsibilities:**

1. Develop and implement machine learning and deep learning models to enhance predictive analytics for tree disease detection.
2. Explore deployment of models using Google’s Earth Engine and Vertex AI.
3. Experiment with Generative AI to improve accuracy in analytical models.
4. Analyze visual, multispectral, and LiDAR imagery to assess vegetation health and identify hazards near infrastructure.
5. Utilize UAV remote sensing data to extract relevant features and information for disease prediction.
6. Collaborate with GIS and ML/DL experts to integrate geographical and spatial data into the predictive models.
7. Document code, methodologies, and findings for knowledge sharing and reproducibility.

**Qualifications:**

1. Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Environmental Science, Geospatial Sciences, or a related field. Ph.D. is a plus.
2. Proven experience in machine learning and deep learning, with a focus on computer vision and image segmentation.
3. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and familiarity with relevant libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn)
4. Strong technical ability to manage and analyze satellite and UAV imagery.
5. Knowledge of remote sensing techniques and data sources, especially UAV and satellite imagery.
6. Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
7. Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
8. Self-driven with a passion for staying at the forefront of technology advancements.

Desired Skills:

1. Experience with Google’s Vertex AI environment
2. Experience with Google’s Earth Engine.

Optional Skills:

1. Knowledge of ENVI for hyper spectral data analytics.

**Salary and Benefits**

This role offers the opportunity to be involved in an exciting new project to help devise a solution to the management of the Ash Dieback crisis within the UK. It boasts a flexible working environment - both remote and in-office options, and flexibility in remote working hours.

**How to Apply:**

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their resume, a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and motivation for applying.

Vertinetik is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds.