AI Developer

iCatalyst•McLean, VA

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking an AI Developer to join our growing team in support of our federal program. This is an exciting opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies and contribute to impactful, mission-critical initiatives. iCatalyst, Inc. is a next-generation technology company specializing in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Natural Language Processing (NLP), Machine Learning (ML), and Robotic Process Automation (RPA). Since 2007, we have partnered with federal and commercial clients to deliver innovative, mission-driven solutions that enhance operational efficiency, digital transformation, and business outcomes. Our solutions are built on a foundation of agility, security, and scalability, guided by our CMMI ML 3 Services and Software Development framework and backed by globally recognized certifications in ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management) and ISO/IEC 27001:2022 (Information Security). Core Capabilities We specialize in AI-Driven Digital Transformation, Cloud and Infrastructure Modernization, Data Engineering and Advanced Analytics, Enterprise IT Modernization and Mission-Focused Program and Change Management.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience delivering end-to-end AI/ML or LLM-based solutions, from data ingestion and model development through deployment and production integration.
Strong programming experience in Python with a focus on building AI/ML applications.
Hands-on experience building LLM-based applications using Azure AI services (e.g., Azure OpenAI, Azure AI Studio, Azure AI Search), with familiarity in supporting tools and frameworks such as OpenAI APIs, LangChain or Llama Index, and Hugging Face.
Experience developing REST APIs and backend services, using frameworks such as FastAPI, Flask, or similar.
Proficiency in data processing and manipulation using tools such as Pandas and NumPy or similar.
Experience integrating AI capabilities into production applications.
Familiarity with cloud-native development practices and CI/CD pipelines.
Understanding of secure development practices and enterprise environments (NIST/FedRAMP awareness preferred).
Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and deliver high-quality work in fast-paced environments.
Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work both independently and collaboratively with minimal supervision.
Strong attention to detail with a focus on accuracy and quality.
Effective communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate technical concepts to diverse stakeholders.
Adaptable and flexible, with ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively across cross-functional teams.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
3-5 years of software development experience, with increasing focus on AI/ML solutions.
Proven experience building and deploying AI/ML or LLM-based applications.
Experience integrating AI into enterprise-scale systems.
Proven ability to work in fast-paced, client-focused environments.
Bachelor’s or master's degree in STEM, Computer Science, or related field from an accredited institution.
U.S. Citizenship (or Permanent Resident) required
Ability to successfully pass a federal background check

Nice To Haves

Experience or familiarity with low-code/no-code platforms (Appian, UiPath, Pega) is a plus.
Experience with .NET/C# environments is a plus, particularly for integrating AI services into existing applications.
Experience supporting federal programs preferred.
Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Engineer Associate.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate.
Other relevant AI/ML or cloud certifications preferred: Appian/Pega/UiPath Developer, AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect Expert, or Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect.

Responsibilities

Design, develop and deploy AI-powered applications using Azure AI services, including: Azure OpenAI Service, Azure AI Studio, Azure AI Search (vector search), Cognitive Services (as applicable).
Own the end-to-end development lifecycle for AI solutions, from prototyping and model development through deployment and production integration.
Design, develop, and integrate AI-powered capabilities using or in conjunction with low-code/no-code platforms (e.g., Appian, UiPath, Pega) to enable scalable automation and workflow solutions.
Build and implement LLM-based solutions, including: Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), Intelligent chatbots / copilots, AI-driven automation tools.
Develop scalable backend services and APIs to support AI functionality using technologies such as Python.
Build and maintain data pipelines for ingestion, transformation, and inference using Azure data services (e.g., Blob Storage, Data Lake).
Apply prompt engineering, model evaluation, and optimization techniques to improve performance, accuracy, and usability of AI solutions.
Integrate AI capabilities into existing enterprise applications, including .NET-based systems where applicable.
Contribute to CI/CD pipelines and deployment workflows using Azure DevOps or similar tools.
Maintain lightweight technical documentation (e.g., architecture overviews, API documentation, key design decisions) to support development and knowledge sharing.
Ensure solutions follow secure coding practices and align with applicable enterprise security guidelines (e.g., NIST, FedRAMP awareness).
Provide support and expertise in the assigned domain.
Collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver solutions.
Ensure adherence to security, compliance, and quality standards.
Support continuous improvement and innovation initiatives.
Special projects as needed.

Benefits

variety of medical plan options, some with Health Savings Accounts
a dental plan option
a vision plan
a 401(k)-plan offering the ability to contribute both pre- and post-tax dollars up to the IRS annual limits and receive a company match
variety of paid time off plans, including vacation, sick, 11 Federal holidays, military, bereavement and jury duty leave
short and long-term disability benefits
life, accidental death and dismemberment, insurance
Phone and internet Reimbursement for eligible employees
Transportation Support (Uber rides to & from HQ to select locations)
Training & Education Assistance (per eligibility)
Annual Wellness Benefit
Social and Community giveback