Lead AI Engineer with Java 17

We are searching for a Lead AI Engineer who is truly AI-native and prepared to deliver hands-on technical leadership of a delivery squad. This isn't a position for conventional engineers who have merely added AI tools on top of old routines — we require a leader who codes daily, owns architecture, upholds standards, and treats AI-assisted delivery as the core engineering model (targeting 60%+ AI-assisted code output). You will mentor engineers, shape specifications, and collaborate with client architects and leadership across both Agile and project delivery modes.
Unlock the potential of remote work in Kazakhstan, giving you the flexibility to work from home or access our offices in Astana, Almaty or Karaganda.
Responsibilities
Deliver hands-on technical leadership of a delivery squad while actively writing code
Own end-to-end architecture within the squad and lead architecture discussions with client architects
Drive specification quality, enforce engineering standards, and stay accountable for delivery quality and governance
Apply AI coding tools (such as Claude Code, GitHub Copilot, or Cursor) daily for generating, refactoring, testing, and reviewing code — reaching 60%+ AI-assisted code output
Configure MCP servers, implement multi-agent patterns, and set up AI/LLM gateways to manage routing, cost, limits, and fallbacks
Leverage AI to assess agent output quality and continuously refine 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 needed to support squad delivery
Present progress, architecture, and AI adoption outcomes to senior leadership
Mentor teams on AI adoption and champion 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
Proven 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
Demonstrated 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
We connect like-minded people:
Delivering innovative solutions to industry leaders, making a global impact
Enjoyable working environment, whether it is the vibrant office or the comfort of your own home
Opportunity to work abroad for up to two months per year
Relocation opportunities within our offices in 55+ countries
Corporate and social events
We invest in your growth:
Leadership development, career advising, soft skills and well-being programs
Certifications, including GCP, Azure and AWS
Unlimited access to EPAM's internal learning database
Free English classes with certified teachers
Discounts in local language schools, including online courses for the Kazakh language
We cover it all:
Participation in the Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Monetary bonuses for engaging in the referral program
Medical & family care package
Six trust days per year (sick leave without a medical certificate)
Coverage of psychology sessions of your choice
Benefits package (sports activities, a variety of stores and services)
Housing support program: preferential mortgage access via Otbasy Bank partnership
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