Applied AI & Computer Vision Engineer – Build the Future of Fishing with Maidenfleet
Location: Nelson, New Zealand – The Heart of Australasia’s Largest Fishing Port
Salary: Competitive + Equity + Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
Start Date: ASAP
About Maidenfleet
Maidenfleet is not just another start-up—we are set to revolutionize one of the world’s great primary industries. Commercial fishing has remained virtually unchanged since the dawn of the Industrial Age, but we’re here to rewrite the rules. Our AI-powered autonomous harvesting system will reshape sustainable seafood harvesting, optimize efficiency, and eliminate waste.
We’re at Day One of building a category-defining company that will transform a multi-billion-dollar global industry. If you're an elite AI & Computer Vision Engineer, this is your chance to get in at the ground floor of a future industry titan.
We are gearing up to build our first commercial prototype, and this role is mission-critical to that success. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to shape the future of fishing, lead game-changing innovation, and build something truly monumental.
The Role – Applied AI & Computer Vision Engineer
We are searching for an exceptional AI & Computer Vision Engineer to develop the intelligent perception and decision-making systems behind our MK1 Harvest System—an AI-driven, autonomous harvesting platform.
This is a hands-on, high-impact role where you will be responsible for developing, deploying, and optimizing AI-driven vision systems that operate in harsh real-world marine conditions. If you thrive on solving cutting-edge AI challenges, working on real-world robotics and automation**, and developing AI models that do more than just run in a lab, this is your dream job.
What You’ll Be Doing
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Develop & deploy AI-powered computer vision models for real-time fish detection, species identification, and quality assessment.
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Train and optimize deep learning models to analyse and interpret complex marine environments.
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Design real-time sensor fusion systems, integrating cameras, sonar, and other onboard sensors for dynamic decision-making.
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Implement machine learning algorithms that drive autonomous control and automation.
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Develop robust AI pipelines capable of operating in low-light, variable visibility, and extreme ocean conditions.
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Collaborate with mechatronics, software, and robotics engineers to integrate AI-driven automation into the harvesting system.
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Test, refine, and iterate rapidly from prototype to real-world deployment.
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Push the boundaries of AI in the seafood industry and solve some of the hardest applied AI problems in sustainable fishing.
Who We’re Looking For
Maidenfleet isn’t for just anyone. We need visionaries, builders, and problem-solvers who thrive in uncharted territory.
You should have:
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Proven experience in AI, machine learning, and computer vision.
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Strong proficiency in Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch, OpenCV, or similar AI/ML frameworks.
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Experience with real-world AI deployment—not just research.
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Deep understanding of deep learning, object detection, and real-time image processing.
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Knowledge of sensor fusion, edge computing, and AI for robotics or automation.
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Hands-on ability to train, deploy, and optimize AI models in extreme environments.
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Experience working with autonomous systems, marine tech, or industrial AI applications (bonus but not required).
We hire obsessively curious, relentless problem-solvers who want to build the future. If you don’t meet every single requirement but believe you should be on this journey, apply anyway.
Why Nelson?
This role is based at our headquarters in Nelson, New Zealand, home to Australasia’s largest fishing port and the beating heart of the seafood industry. Nelson isn’t just a workplace—it’s a lifestyle.
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Marine Innovation Hub – Be at the centre of the region’s rich maritime and seafood industry.
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Outdoor Paradise – World-class hiking, mountain biking, and water sports right on your doorstep.
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Sunniest City in New Zealand – Stunning beaches, national parks, and a vibrant community.
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Great Food & Wine – Nestled between renowned vineyards and fresh local seafood markets.
If you want cutting-edge work without sacrificing lifestyle, Nelson offers the perfect balance.
Why Maidenfleet?
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Industry Revolution – Disrupting a multi-billion-dollar industry with cutting-edge AI & automation.
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Early-Stage Leadership – Get in at the ground floor and shape the future.
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Hard Problems, Big Impact – Solving critical sustainability and efficiency challenges in global seafood.
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Competitive Pay + Equity – Be part of our long-term success.
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Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity – This is not just a job—it’s a career-defining moment.
Ready to Build the Future?
If you want to define the next era of sustainable fishing, push the boundaries of AI, and work with some of the smartest, most driven people in the industry—we want to hear from you.
Apply now.