Associate AI Engineer

Ascend Learning • Leawood, KS

65d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Associate AI Engineer is an entry-level role responsible for supporting the development and implementation of Ascend's AI-powered products and solutions under supervision. The Associate AI Engineer assists mid-and-senior level team members in building, testing, and maintaining AI components, gains hands-on experience with Generative AI technologies, and progressively takes on more complex tasks as skills develop. This role emphasizes learning, growth, and building a strong foundation in AI engineering practices while contributing meaningful work to the team's objectives. The Associate AI Engineer works closely with other AI engineers (including on-shore and off-shore contractors) and cross-functional teams to deliver quality AI solutions.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required. Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering or closely related field or equivalent experience preferred
• Working knowledge of Large Language Models, prompt engineering, context management, and embedding techniques
• Experience in Python
• Familiarity with REST APIs and web services concepts
• Basic understanding of cloud computing concepts (Azure knowledge is a plus)
• Awareness of containerization concepts (Docker)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Aspirations for professional development and growth opportunities
• Team-oriented mindset with ability to work independently on assigned tasks
• Curious nature with the ability to ask questions and seek help when needed

Responsibilities

• Develop and deploy Generative AI products/models into production under supervision, focusing on code quality and functionality
• Support the development of AI systems within established architecture
• Help gather requirements and understand use cases by participating in stakeholder meetings with senior engineers
• Actively participate in code review and technical discussions to continuously improve solution quality
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product teams, data scientists, data engineers, and software engineers to develop AI capabilities into existing and new products
• Complete assigned development tasks and meet project deadlines
• Maintain and update technical documentation for implemented features and processes
• Stay current with the latest AI technologies and methodologies through continuous learning

Benefits

• Flexible and generous paid time off
• Competitive medical, dental, vision and life insurance
• 401(k) employer matching program
• Parental leave
• Wellness resources
• Charitable matching program
• Hybrid work
• On-site workout facilities (Leawood, Gilbert, Burlington)
• Community outreach groups
• Tuition reimbursement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Web Search Portals, Libraries, Archives, and Other Information Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees