Azure AI/ML Engineer

Job Description: Senior Azure AI Developer
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Azure AI Developer to build, deploy, and optimize scalable AI/ML solutions using Microsoft Azure's advanced AI services. This role requires expert, hands-on development proficiency in Azure OpenAI Service, Azure AI Studio, LLM integration, Python, LangChain, Semantic Kernel, and vector database technologies.
You will be responsible for translating architectural designs into robust, production-ready code, collaborating closely with architects and data scientists. As a senior member, you will also mentor junior developers, conduct code reviews, and drive technical excellence and best practices within the development team.
Responsibilities
Develop and implement enterprise-grade LLM-based applications (e.g., RAG, agents, and copilots) using Azure OpenAI, LangChain, and Semantic Kernel.
Write high-quality, maintainable, and efficient code in Python, including data processing scripts (potentially with PySpark) and API endpoints.
Build and optimize RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) pipelines, integrating vector search capabilities using Azure Cognitive Search, FAISS, or similar technologies.
Collaborate with AI Architects and Product Owners to translate requirements and architectural designs into technical specifications and working code.
Implement and manage MLOps pipelines for model deployment, monitoring, and lifecycle management using Azure Machine Learning, Azure DevOps, and GitHub Actions.
Integrate AI models and services with other business applications and data sources using Azure Functions, APIM, Logic Apps, and Service Bus.
Implement robust testing, debugging, and performance tuning for AI applications to ensure scalability and reliability.
Mentor junior developers, conduct regular code reviews, and promote development best practices (e.g., TDD, clean code).
Stay current with the latest Azure AI services and Generative AI techniques, experimenting with new tools and frameworks to drive innovation.
Required Qualifications
8+ years of overall IT experience, with 3-4+ years in a hands-on AI/ML or software development role.
Proven, hands-on development experience with:
Azure OpenAI Service and Azure AI Studio
LLM Orchestration frameworks (LangChain, Semantic Kernel)
Expert-level Python programming
Vector databases (e.g., Azure Cognitive Search, FAISS) and implementing RAG patterns
Strong, practical experience with MLOps on Azure, including CI/CD pipelines (Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions) and Azure Machine Learning.
Solid experience with Azure data and integration services (e.g., Azure Data Lake, Azure Functions, API Management, Logic Apps).
Strong understanding of LLM fundamentals, prompt engineering, and fine-tuning techniques.
Strong problem-solving, debugging, and analytical skills.
Experience working in Agile/Scrum development environments.
Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.
Preferred Qualifications
Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Engineer Associate (AI-102) or Azure Developer Associate (AZ-204).
Experience with PySpark for large-scale data processing.
Experience with containerization (Docker, Kubernetes) and Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS).
Familiarity with Azure Responsible AI (RAI) principles and implementing them in practice.
Prior experience mentoring junior team members or acting as a technical lead.

Work arrangement
No