AI Driven Software Developer & IT Coordinator

Hanley, Flight & Zimmerman•Chicago, IL

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

AI-Driven Software Developer and IT Coordinator About the Role Hanley, Flight & Zimmerman, LLC (HFZ), a Chicago patent law firm, is looking for an AI Driven Software Developer and IT Coordinator. HFZ builds much of its own software to support how our attorneys and staff work. We are looking for someone who is great at two things: understanding what people need and figuring out how to build it. AI coding tools have reshaped this role. We care less about years of experience with a particular programming language and more about whether you can listen to a problem, ask good questions, and turn the answer into working software quickly. If you are curious, communicate well, and have a knack for figuring things out, we want to hear from you. Recent graduates and early-career software developers are encouraged to apply.

Requirements

Consistent and proactive communication in writing and conversation with key stakeholders is essential to this role.
A track record of figuring things out on your own, whether through school, internships, work, or personal projects.
Hands-on experience building software of any kind.
Regular use of AI coding tools such as Claude Code, GitHub Copilot, Cursor, or ChatGPT, along with the judgment to review, test, and understand the code they produce.
Some familiarity with SQL databases and Git, or confidence that you can learn them quickly.
Discretion with confidential information. You will be required to follow firm policies on client confidentiality and how data may be used with AI tools.

Nice To Haves

Experience with elements we currently use: C#/.NET, JavaScript and React, Microsoft SQL Server, Azure, and REST APIs.
Experience with front end, back end, and database integration (full stack development)
A degree in Computer Science or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
Experience connecting third-party systems or APIs.
Exposure to a law firm or other professional services setting.

Responsibilities

Meet with attorneys, staff, and firm leadership to pinpoint issues and create clear, practical, and actionable plans.
Build, test, and deploy internal applications and tools, using AI coding assistants to move quickly.
Keep stakeholders informed by explaining what you are building, what the key trade-offs are, and expected completion timelines, all in plain language.
Maintain and improve our existing applications, track down bugs, and fix their root causes.
Work alongside our IT support vendor on issues involving networks, servers, and databases.
Troubleshoot on-site technical issues and provide light IT support.
Document your work so others can understand and maintain it.
Recognize when a decision needs input or approval from management and bring it forward.