WHAT YOU'LL DO As an AI Engineer, you will be instrumental in developing and implementing Ascend's AI-powered products and solutions, contributing to the transformation of education through innovative technology. This role builds, tests, and deploys scalable solutions using Generative AI and Machine Learning (ML) foundational models. The AI Engineer is a product-minded, hands-on technical contributor who moves quickly from idea to working prototype, translating user needs into impactful AI features. This role works closely with other AI engineers (including on-shore and off-shore contractors) and cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality AI solutions while continuously developing technical expertise in the field.
WHERE YOU'LL WORK This position will work a hybrid schedule from either of our office locations in Leawood, KS or Burlington, MA.
HOW YOU'LL SPEND YOUR TIME- Develop and deploy distributed systems and backend services that integrate LLMs / ML Models into real-world educational products
- Contribute to the design and development of Generative AI/ML system within established architecture
- Partner closely with product teams to rapidly prototype and ship AI-powered features, translating user needs into working solutions quickly
- Leverage agentic coding tools and AI-assisted development workflows to accelerate prototyping, and ship higher-quality solutions faster
- Participate in code review ands and technical discussions to continuously improve solution quality
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product teams, data scientists, data engineers, and software engineers to develop AI capabilities into existing and new products
- Take ownership of defining project milestones, timelines, and ensuring successful delivery within specified deadlines
- Maintain and update technical documentations for implemented features and processes
- Support team members through knowledge sharing and collaborative problem-solving
- Research and evaluate new tools and techniques
- Stay current with the latest AI technologies and methodologies through continuous learning
WHAT YOU'LL NEED- High school diploma or GED required. Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering or closely related field or equivalent experience preferred
- 3+ years of progressive work experience in AI or software engineering roles
- Microsoft Azure AI Engineer certification preferred
- Working knowledge of Large Language Models, prompt engineering, context management, and embedding techniques
- Experience in Python, REST API development (FastAPI)
- Experience with cloud infrastructure (Azure) preferred
- Experience with containerization (Docker), orchestration (Kubernetes), CI/CD and basic DevOps practices
- Strong product sense with the ability to understand user needs and contribute to building intuitive, impactful AI experience
- Experience with event-driven architectures and distributed messaging systems such as Apache Kafka or similar technologies
- Knowledge or experience with modern web development frameworks such as Angular or React preferred
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Aspirations for professional development and growth opportunities
- Team-oriented mindset with ability to work independently on assigned tasks
BENEFITS - Flexible and generous paid time off
- Competitive medical, dental, vision and life insurance
- 401(k) employer matching program
- Parental leave
- Wellness resources
- Charitable matching program
- On-site workout facilities (Leawood, Gilbert, Burlington)
- Community outreach groups
- Tuition reimbursement
