Job Details

We're on a mission to change lives through better sight and hearing—and now we're taking it to the next level with AI. If you're an expert in machine learning, MLOps, and building scalable AI systems, we've got a seriously exciting opportunity for you.

We're looking for a Principal AI/ML Engineer to be the technical heartbeat of our AI efforts. You'll be setting the standards, shaping the roadmap, and leading a talented team of engineers who are building everything from predictive models to GenAI agents. You'll be hands-on when needed, guiding the team through experimentation, prototyping, and delivery—and making sure we're always pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

You'll work with internal teams and external partners (yep, even Microsoft), helping us scale AI across the business. From defining best practices to embedding ethical AI principles, you'll be the go-to person for making sure our AI is smart, secure, and seriously impactful.

This isn't just about cool tech—it's about transforming how we operate, how we serve our customers, and how we support our colleagues. You'll be helping Specsavers industrialise AI and embed it into real-world systems that make a difference every day.

• Define standards and shape the AI roadmap as the technical heartbeat of AI efforts.
• Lead a team of engineers, guiding experimentation, prototyping, and delivery; contribute hands-on when needed.
• Scale AI across the business by collaborating with internal teams and external partners (including Microsoft).
• Establish best practices and embed ethical AI principles to ensure AI systems are smart, secure, and impactful.
• Industrialise AI and embed it into real-world systems to drive measurable improvements.

• Experience with GenAI, Azure ML, and MLOps; ability to turn complex ideas into clear, scalable solutions.
• Strong communication skills, strategic thinking, and a tech visionary mindset.
• Proven ability to translate technical concepts into actionable plans and align across teams.