Key Responsibilities
- Research, prototype, and implement AI solutions across multiple domains (text, image, 3D, and design tools).
- Read and analyze state-of-the-art papers, identifying techniques that can be applied to ZURU’s internal challenges.
- Build and fine-tune models (transformers, LoRA, diffusion models) and experiment with new architectures.
- Deep understanding of good practices on how to collect, clean, and prepare datasets, ensuring data quality and relevance.
- Collaborate closely with the UX, OS, and frontend teams to turn AI capabilities into real user experiences.
- Contribute to internal tools, pipelines, and libraries that make experimentation faster and more scalable.
- Share knowledge with teammates, supporting internal training and fostering an “AI-first” culture.
Requirements
- 3–6 years of experience in AI or Machine Learning engineering, with practical projects to show (GitHub, research repos, demos, etc.).
- Solid knowledge of Python and knowledge of popular AI frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, or JAX).
- Understanding of transformer architectures, fine-tuning, LoRA, RLHF, and agentic systems.
- Experience using or integrating modern AI tools (ComfyUI, Hugging Face, LangChain, OpenAI SDK).
- Strong problem-solving skills, curiosity, and the ability to move from idea to prototype quickly.
- English proficiency (B2 or higher), comfortable working in a global, English-speaking environment.
- Team-oriented mindset: collaborative, respectful, eager to learn from others as well as to teach to others.
Nice to Have
- Familiarity with model evaluation techniques.
- Previous exposure to research-to-production pipelines (model deployment, benchmarking, monitoring).
- Some experience with C++, particularly for integrating AI modules into performance-critical environments.
- Knowledge or previous work in Computer Vision.
Who You Are
- You’re an AI enthusiast who loves exploring new models, frameworks, and ideas.
- You understand both the science and the craft of AI — reading papers, experimenting, and building.
- You see every model as a starting point, not a limit.
- You thrive in a fast-paced, cross-functional team and want your work to have tangible impact.
- You believe in our motto: “AI is not the final destination, but a tool that empowers us to foresee possibilities and shape the future.”
Top Skills
What We Do
ZURU is a disruptive and award-winning company that designs, manufactures and markets innovative toys and consumer products.
Inspired by kids and imaginative play, ZURU is one of the fastest growing toy companies in the world and is known for their agility, creativity and new-age manufacturing techniques.
The company that started in New Zealand now employs more than 5,000 staff across 18 offices, produces 600,000 toys a day and distributes to most major retailers in over 120 countries.
ZURU has delighted millions of families all over the world with brands such as Bunch O Balloons™, X-Shot™, Rainbocorns™, Robo Alive™, Smashers™, 5 Surprise™ and Metal Machines™ as well as through partnerships with entertainment properties, including Nickelodeon, Disney, Universal Studios and DreamWorks.
With a strong commitment to the community, ZURU supports Captivating International, local China orphanages and also student development programs in Asia and in New Zealand.
ZURU will continue to pave new ways for kids to play and focuses on reimagining what this looks like every day.
