Lead AI Engineer with Java 17

We are seeking a Lead AI Engineer who is genuinely AI-native and ready to drive hands-on technical leadership of a delivery squad. This is not a role for traditional engineers who have simply layered AI tools on top of old habits — we need a leader who writes code daily, owns architecture, enforces standards, and uses AI-assisted delivery as the core engineering model (targeting 60%+ AI-assisted code output). You will coach engineers, shape specifications, and partner with client architects and leadership across both Agile and project delivery modes.
Responsibilities
Provide hands-on technical leadership of a delivery squad while actively contributing code
Own end-to-end architecture within the squad and lead architecture discussions with client architects
Drive specification quality, enforce engineering standards, and remain accountable for delivery quality and governance
Use AI coding tools (such as Claude Code, GitHub Copilot, or Cursor) daily for generating, refactoring, testing, and reviewing code — achieving 60%+ AI-assisted code output
Configure MCP servers, apply multi-agent patterns, and set up AI/LLM gateways to manage routing, cost, limits, and fallbacks
Leverage AI to evaluate agent output quality and continuously improve delivery practices
Coach engineers on prompts, context management, and skill files, and review and approve skill-file contributions
Step into any full-stack or mobile role as required to support squad delivery
Present progress, architecture, and AI adoption outcomes to senior leadership
Mentor teams on AI adoption and promote AI-native ways of working across the delivery organisation
Requirements
12-15 years of overall engineering experience, including 3+ years leading AI-assisted delivery teams
Track record of leading delivery in a regulated sector (financial services preferred), with references available
Background in Java 17+ and Spring Boot 3.x (mandatory) with microservices architecture
Expertise in frontend development with React (mandatory), TypeScript, and component design
Proficiency in responsive UI development and Figma-to-code workflows
Skills in REST and event-driven APIs, OAuth2 / OIDC, and PostgreSQL
Competency in messaging platforms, including Kafka and IBM MQ
Capability to own service pipelines using GitHub Actions, Docker, and Kubernetes / OpenShift
Qualifications in GitOps practices and automated testing
Showcase of leading at least one programme where AI-assisted delivery was the primary engineering model (not a pilot)
Familiarity with MCP server configuration, multi-agent patterns, and AI/LLM gateway configuration
Proven ability to mentor teams on AI adoption and work comfortably across both Agile and project modes
English proficiency at an Upper-Intermediate level (B2) or higher
We offer
CONTINUOUS UPSKILLING, LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT
Diversity of tasks and projects
Assessment center for objective review of competency level
Personal development plan
Mentoring programs and leadership development
Certification and professional development support
Access to learning platforms including more than 2,500 internal courses
English courses taught by certified teachers
CORPORATE BENEFITS
Extra leave days
Referral bonuses
COMPENSATION PACKAGE
Competitive compensation paid in USD
Regular salary and performance reviews
MEDICAL & HEALTHCARE
Private health insurance
Well-being events
WORKING ENVIRONMENT
Recreation areas and kitchens
Tea, coffee and snacks
Sports equipment and game consoles
IT Equipment
Microsoft’s Software Assurance Home Use Program (HUP)
Please note that our Talent Attraction Team reviews applications and CVs submitted in English.
EPAM is global leader in AI transformation engineering and integrated consulting, serving Forbes Global 2000 companies and ambitious startups. With over thirty years of expertise in custom software, product and platform engineering, we empower our clients to become AI-Native enterprises, driving measurable value from innovation and digital investments.

Work arrangement
Yes