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Industry: AI-Powered Pre-Construction Software
Role: Machine Learning Engineer (Full-time, Remote)
Location: Chile
Salary: $5,500/month
Estimated U.S. Cost: $14,000/month
Total Savings: 61%
Background: AI Platform Seeking Computer Vision Expertise
A tech company specializing in AI-driven pre-construction solutions for contractors needed a Machine Learning Engineer with deep experience in computer vision and object detection. They were developing technology to automatically detect walls and identify rooms from architectural blueprints to improve material takeoffs and cost accuracy.
Activating an internal search would require multiple teams (HR, tech leads, operations) and take significant time and resources. Instead, they engaged South to efficiently source specialized technical talent.
The Challenge: Advanced ML Expertise Without U.S.-Level Costs
The ideal profile required proven experience in real-world ML model implementation, specifically:
- Model development using PyTorch
- Object detection with YOLOv8 / Ultralytics
- Deployment with ONNX Runtime
- Computer vision using OpenCV and NumPy
- Model serving via FastAPI or BentoML
- Strong analytical and autonomy-driven approach
Hiring this type of candidate in the U.S. (~$14,000/month) would significantly impact cost structure and scalability.
The Solution: Fast Hiring Through South’s Staffing Model
South launched the process immediately and managed the full lifecycle:
- Candidate sourcing and technical pre-screening
- ML-focused technical challenge
- Interviews coordination
- Background checks
- Contract setup and payroll management
- Ongoing operational support
The client concentrated solely on evaluating the top candidates. South handled everything else.
Meet the Machine Learning Engineer: Matías from Chile
Education: Electrical Engineering – Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
Experience: 5+ years applying computer vision to architectural and technical workflows
Highlights:
- Developed models such as YOLOv8, Mask R-CNN, and DeepLabv3 for automated blueprint segmentation
- Scaled inference using Kubeflow and Triton Inference Server
- Experienced in deploying ML systems using FastAPI, Docker, and CI/CD pipelines
- Successfully integrated computer vision models into production with high accuracy
His background aligned precisely with the project’s technical requirements, enabling rapid onboarding.
Impact
Thanks to his specialized experience, Matías began adding value almost immediately:
- Fast integration within the engineering workflow
- Minimal onboarding required
- Accelerated development of AI-driven blueprint interpretation
- Strengthened the technical team without increasing U.S.-based headcount
Results
- Cost Savings: 61% compared to U.S.-based compensation
- Time to Value: Immediate contribution
- Operational Impact: Fast integration and high technical alignment
- Onboarding Time: Minimal
Why Hire with South?
South provides access to highly specialized LATAM talent that matches U.S. technical standards at a fraction of the cost. We manage sourcing, vetting, compliance, contracts, payroll, and ongoing support so your team can focus on delivery.
👉 Looking to scale your engineering team with top-tier ML talent? Let’s talk.
