Machine Learning Engineer

Website John Keells

Machine Learning Engineer

Department: Octave – Data and Advanced Analytics Centre of Excellence

Company: John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH)

About Octave & John Keells Holdings

John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) is Sri Lanka’s largest listed conglomerate on the Colombo Stock Exchange, operating across transport, consumer foods, retail, leisure, property, and financial services sectors for over 150 years.

Octave stands at the absolute core of data-driven strategic and operational decision-making at JKH. We solve some of the most complex challenges across multiple industry verticals by developing advanced machine learning and AI solutions. At Octave, you will be part of a world-class team of data scientists, machine learning engineers, and AI researchers, guided by senior technical leaders with PhDs in AI-related fields and deep experience at leading global tech companies.

Role Description

As a Machine Learning Engineer at Octave, you will play a pivotal role in developing and deploying innovative machine learning models and algorithms. You will work closely with a cross-functional team of data scientists, data engineers, domain experts, and external clients to create scalable solutions that address complex business challenges.

Key Responsibilities

Model Development & Research

  • Algorithm Design: Design, develop, and implement machine learning algorithms and models to solve real-world operational challenges.

  • R&D Innovation: Research and develop state-of-the-art AI, Deep Learning, and Machine Learning techniques, introducing relevant novel tools to the Octave ecosystem.

Production Enactments & MLOps

  • Pipeline Optimization: Optimize machine learning engineering pipelines to guarantee the seamless scalability of models in heavy production environments.

  • MLOps Standards: Implement cutting-edge MLOps best practices, including feature stores, model monitoring, model governance, experiment tracking, and automated CI/CD workflows.

  • Deployment & Monitoring: Deploy ML models into production environments ensuring reliability, while continuously monitoring and tuning performance to maintain accuracy and effectiveness.

Collaboration & Documentation

  • Cross-Functional Alignment: Partner with data engineering and business delivery teams to translate high-level business requirements into optimal technical solutions.

  • Knowledge Sharing: Maintain comprehensive documentation of models, codebases, and architectural processes for future reference.

  • Engineering Excellence: Actively contribute ideas, participate in meaningful peer code reviews, and communicate effectively across technical and non-technical layers.

Desired Skills & Competencies

Technical Qualifications & Experience

  • Education: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.

  • Engineering Background: Proven experience in core machine learning engineering, model development, and live deployment loops.

  • MLOps Mastery: Hands-on experience with production-grade MLOps pipelines and infrastructure management frameworks.

  • Big Data Frameworks: In-depth knowledge of PySpark, with a demonstrated ability to optimize PySpark programs within a distributed cluster environment.

  • Core Languages: Elite proficiency in Python and rich familiarity with modern frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn, and Keras.

  • Cloud & Containerization: Practical experience deploying machine learning models via containerization tools (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes) and cloud services.

Mindset & Behavioral Traits

  • Passionate Leader: A high-energy individual who inspires and drives teammates to reach their maximum potential.

  • Experimental Thinker: Excited about exploring novel solutions outside standard paradigms; brings an iterative approach to driving innovation.

  • Lifelong Learner: A distinct passion for staying updated on global machine learning advancements and a firm commitment to continuous learning.

How to Apply

John Keells Group is an equal-opportunity employer. By applying, you consent to the processing of your personal information for recruitment purposes.

Interested candidates are encouraged to email their comprehensive CV specifying the job title in the subject line or apply via the official JKH corporate portal.

  • Official Application Email: octave@keells.com (Alternative corporate ingestion via careers@keells.com)

  • Official Careers Portal: www.keells.com/careers

  • Application Deadline: On or before August 31, 2026

    Location – Colombo, Sri Lanka

    Travel Guides & Travelogues

    Apply For Job – Click Here

    For More Jobs – Click Here

To apply for this job email your details to octave@keells.com