Lead AI Engineer

Call for Applications for Lead AI Engineer (R-06) – ANNAM.AI Location: ANNAM.AI, Center of Excellence in AI for Agriculture, IIT Ropar (Onsite preferred; hybrid/remote may also be considered) Type: Full-Time | Contractual | Renewable based on performance Compensation: ₹30 - 40 Lakhs per annum (Based on

qualifications

and experience) Performance Incentives:Additional incentives based on performance and project outcomes, subject to Governing Board approval Tenure: Initial appointment for 2 years, extendable up to 5 years based on performance Preferred

experience

of 5+ years (May be relaxed in the case of exceptional candidates.) Role Summary As the Lead AI Engineer at ANNAM.AI, you will spearhead the development and deployment of cutting-edge AI solutions to address critical agricultural challenges, such as precision farming, crop yield optimization, and farmer-centric decision support systems. This leadership role requires deep expertise in AI/ML, a proven track record in managing high-impact projects, and the ability to drive innovation in India’s farming ecosystem. You will oversee interdisciplinary teams, foster strategic partnerships, and shape ANNAM.AI’s mission to create scalable, sustainable AI technologies for agriculture. This position is ideal for a visionary AI leader passionate about transforming the agri-value chain through technology.

Key Responsibilities

AI Strategy and Innovation Define and execute ANNAM.AI’s AI strategy, identifying high-impact use cases for machine learning, computer vision, and data analytics in agriculture. Lead the design and development of advanced AI models for applications like crop monitoring, soil health analysis, and pest management. Drive innovation by integrating emerging AI technologies (e.g., LLMs, RAG-based models) into agricultural solutions. Project Leadership and Execution Oversee end-to-end AI project lifecycles, from ideation and model development to deployment and scaling in rural ecosystems. Manage the integration of diverse data sources (e.g., satellite imagery, IoT sensors, weather data) into robust AI systems. Lead pilot projects and proof-of-concept initiatives to validate AI solutions for farmer adoption. Team Leadership and Mentorship Mentor and guide a team of AI engineers, data scientists, and field practitioners to deliver high-quality, impactful solutions. Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and farmer-first thinking within ANNAM.AI. Coordinate with interdisciplinary teams, including agricultural scientists and external stakeholders, to align AI solutions with real-world needs. Partnerships and Ecosystem Engagement Build and maintain strategic partnerships with government bodies (e.g., MoA&FW, ICAR, NABARD), research institutes, startups, and agri-businesses. Represent ANNAM.AI as a technical ambassador on national and international platforms to promote AI-driven agricultural transformation. Engage with donor agencies, CSR partners, and private sector stakeholders to secure funding and support for large-scale AI initiatives. Research and Policy Contributions Create case studies on AI applications in agriculture to enhance ANNAM.AI’s thought leadership. Provide technical inputs to government agencies on AI adoption, food security, and sustainable agriculture policies. Develop capacity-building initiatives, such as workshops and hackathons, to train students, startups, and innovators in agri-tech.

Candidate Profile

Educational

Qualifications

&

Skills

Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or a related discipline from a reputed institution. Expertise in AI/ML frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn) and advanced techniques (e.g., deep learning, computer vision, LLMs, RAG). Strong programming

skills

in Python, C++, or Java, with

experience

in cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP) and IoT systems. Knowledge of agricultural data sources (e.g., satellite imagery, sensor data) and their application in AI solutions is highly desirable. Professional

Experience

Proven Track in AI/ML development, with

experience

in leadership or Sr. technical roles. Proven track record in leading large-scale AI projects, preferably in agri-tech, healthcare, or rural technology ecosystems.

Experience

managing interdisciplinary teams and collaborating with external stakeholders (e.g., government bodies, startups, FPOs). Prior contributions to research publications or open-source projects in AI is an advantage. Performance-Based Incentives The Lead AI Engineer will be eligible for performance-based incentives, subject to periodic reviews and Governing Board approval. Incentives will

and experience) Performance Incentives:Additional incentives based on performance and project outcomes, subject to Governing Board approval Tenure: Initial appointment for 2 years, extendable up to 5 years based on performance Preferred

experience

of 5+ years (May be relaxed in the case of exceptional candidates.) Role Summary As the Lead AI Engineer at ANNAM.AI, you will spearhead the development and deployment of cutting-edge AI solutions to address critical agricultural challenges, such as precision farming, crop yield optimization, and farmer-centric decision support systems. This leadership role requires deep expertise in AI/ML, a proven track record in managing high-impact projects, and the ability to drive innovation in India’s farming ecosystem. You will oversee interdisciplinary teams, foster strategic partnerships, and shape ANNAM.AI’s mission to create scalable, sustainable AI technologies for agriculture. This position is ideal for a visionary AI leader passionate about transforming the agri-value chain through technology.

Key Responsibilities

AI Strategy and Innovation Define and execute ANNAM.AI’s AI strategy, identifying high-impact use cases for machine learning, computer vision, and data analytics in agriculture. Lead the design and development of advanced AI models for applications like crop monitoring, soil health analysis, and pest management. Drive innovation by integrating emerging AI technologies (e.g., LLMs, RAG-based models) into agricultural solutions. Project Leadership and Execution Oversee end-to-end AI project lifecycles, from ideation and model development to deployment and scaling in rural ecosystems. Manage the integration of diverse data sources (e.g., satellite imagery, IoT sensors, weather data) into robust AI systems. Lead pilot projects and proof-of-concept initiatives to validate AI solutions for farmer adoption. Team Leadership and Mentorship Mentor and guide a t