Lead Conversational AI Developer

University of Maryland Global Campus • Adelphi, MD

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a talented and passionate Conversational AI Developer to join our team and play a key role in creating innovative and engaging chatbots and virtual assistants. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in software development, with a focus on AI and natural language processing technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree
• 3+ years of experience in software development, preferably with a focus on conversational AI or chatbots
• Deep expertise in Azure Bot Framework v4, specifically utilizing Adaptive Dialogs, Waterfall Dialogs, and middleware customization
• Strong backend development skills with advanced proficiency in C#, .NET, JavaScript, CSS, HTML for custom bot logic
• Hands-on experience with Azure Integration Services, using Azure Functions and Logic Apps to orchestrate workflows between the bot and external systems
• Proven experience with Salesforce API integrations (REST/SOAP), specifically for managing Live Agent handoffs, Knowledge base retrieval, and Case creation
• Experience configuring Azure Cosmos DB for storing conversation state, user data, and telemetry logs
• Experience implementing Hybrid AI strategies, bridging classical NLU services (Azure CLU) with Generative AI models (Azure OpenAI/GPT) for fall-back handling or content generation
• Middleware familiarity, with exposure to MuleSoft or similar ESB platforms for enterprise-grade data exchange
• Data-driven optimization skills, utilizing Power BI to analyze conversation logs, identify drop-off points, and drive NLU accuracy improvements
• SDLC leadership experience, including defining CI/CD pipelines for bot deployment across multiple environments (Dev/Test/Prod)
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Passion for innovation and a strong desire to push the boundaries of Conversational AI technology

Responsibilities

• Drive the full lifecycle development — from design to deployment — of scalable chatbots and virtual assistants utilizing Microsoft Bot Framework, Kore.ai, or similar CAI technologies
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (product managers, designers, UX/UI specialists) to gather requirements, design conversational flows, and implement user stories
• Integrate Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Natural Language Understanding (NLU) techniques to enable chatbots to understand user intent and respond accordingly
• Leverage Generative AI services to enhance chatbot responses with creativity and personalization
• Develop chatbots for deployment across multiple channels (web, mobile apps, messaging platforms) ensuring a seamless user experience
• Conduct thorough testing and debugging to ensure high performance and accuracy of conversational AI solutions
• Monitor and analyze user interactions and chatbot performance to identify areas for improvement and optimization
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in Conversational AI technologies and best practices

Benefits

• Generous Time Off: Enjoy 22 days of paid vacation, 15 days of sick leave, 3 personal days, and 16 paid holidays (17 during general election years). For part-time employees, time off rates will be prorated based on the number of hours worked.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access to health care, medical with vision, dental, and prescription plans for both individuals and families, effective from the 1st of the month following your hire date.
• Insurance Options: Term Life Insurance, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, and Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance. Part-time employees working less than 0.5 FTE are not eligible for LTD.
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Available for medical and dependent care expenses.
• Retirement Plans: Choose between the Optional Retirement Program (ORP) or the Maryland State Retirement and Pension System (MSRPS).
• Supplemental Retirement Plans: include 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), and various Roth options. The university does not provide matching funds.
• Tuition Remission: Immediate availability for Regular Exempt Staff. Spouses and dependent children are eligible for undergraduate tuition remission after two years of service. NOTE: For part-time employees (at least 50 percent of the time), tuition remission benefits are prorated.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level