Software Applications Developer/Programmer III - AI/ML

Texas A&M•Corpus Christi, TX

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Software Applications Developer III – AI/ML serves as the technical lead for software development projects at the Autonomy Research Institute (ARI), supervising and mentoring junior developers while independently delivering high-quality, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning (AI/ML)-enabled web-based and server-side software solutions supporting Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). This role ensures adherence to technical standards, provides oversight of development efforts, and collaborates with stakeholders to support software architecture, system optimization, and integration. Additionally, this position reports project status, technical challenges, risks, and progress to management.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or applicable field
Five (5) years of related experience
High School Diploma/GED, and nine (9) years of related experience; OR Associate’s degree in Computer Science or applicable field, and seven (7) years of related experience; OR Master’s degree in Computer Science or applicable field, and three (3) years of related experience
U.S. Citizenship Required
Maintain a Valid Driver’s License
Proficiency in AI/ML model development using Python and frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or scikit-learn, including experience training, evaluating, optimizing, and deploying models in production environments
Experience with full-stack web development using C#, ASP.NET Core, JavaScript, HTML/CSS, and REST APIs
Experience with database development using Microsoft SQL Server and T-SQL
Proficiency with Git and version-control workflows
Experience leading software or AI/ML development efforts and providing technical guidance or mentorship to junior developers
Ability to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, which may include communications systems, computer networks and systems, cybersecurity systems, electrical grid, hazardous waste treatment system or water treatment system
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
High level of articulation and professionalism
Exceptional attention to detail
Critical thinking and proactive problem solving
Ability to take initiative and identify opportunities for improvement
Ability to either work in a team environment or independently with minimal guidance
Ability to manage and prioritize tasks, resources, and time effectively
Ability to supervise and mentor junior developers and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, operational personnel, project leaders, and stakeholders
Ability to travel up to 20% for position-associated missions and training sessions
Ability to lift 50 lbs. and occasionally work outdoors

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, or a related field
Relevant AI/ML, data science, or software-development certifications
Experience with software development supporting Unmanned Aircraft Systems or autonomous systems
Experience developing or integrating geographic information system applications
Record of published AI/ML, autonomy, UAS, or software-development research
Experience with DevOps tools and practices, including Docker, continuous integration and continuous deployment, or Kubernetes
Proficiency with Linux operating systems, including Ubuntu or Red Hat Enterprise Linux
Experience managing multidisciplinary software-development projects, including project schedules, technical requirements, resource planning, and deliverables
Experience writing technical proposals, sponsor deliverables, technical reports, or system documentation

Responsibilities

Develop, modify, debug, test, deploy, and maintain C#/.NET, JavaScript, Python, and web-based applications.
Train, test, evaluate, and optimize AI/ML models for production environments.
Integrate AI/ML components into web-based and backend systems.
Ensure the security, scalability, reliability, and maintainability of applications.
Review and approve software designs and coordinate the integration of multiple codebases.
Provide technical oversight and ensure adherence to software development best practices and standards.
Oversee the review and analysis of software documentation and production performance to facilitate problem resolution.
Develop, review, and approve test plans for AI/ML models and software solutions.
Participate in data architecture design, system optimization, and performance tuning.
Supervise and mentor junior developers and graduate and undergraduate student workers, as assigned, providing technical guidance, performance feedback, and professional development support.
Provide technical leadership for software development projects and promote adherence to coding standards and development best practices.
Conduct code reviews, support system integration efforts, and evaluate software designs.
Evaluate software products and programming languages, recommending adoption when applicable.
Provide technical guidance and mentorship to team members regarding AI/ML practices, tools, and methodologies.
Foster innovation, knowledge sharing, and collaboration through professional networks and organizational activities.
Collaborate with project leaders to develop work plans, project timelines, technical requirements, and resource allocations.
Monitor and report project status, technical risks, challenges, milestones, and progress to supervisor and project stakeholders.
Maintain software documentation, user manuals, technical reports, and related records to support project continuity.
Conduct systems analyses and recommend improvements to system efficiency, functionality, and performance.
Ensure databases, applications, software configurations, and procedures are current and appropriately documented.
Protect operations by maintaining data security, confidentiality, and compliance with applicable organizational and project requirements.
Maintain current knowledge of emerging technologies, programming techniques, AI/ML methodologies, and development tools.
Safely operates university vehicles and machinery.

Benefits

Medical $0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value). Up to 83% of premium covered by the university: Employee and Spouse Employee and Children Employee and Family coverage
Dental & Vision
Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account
DUAL CAREER PARTNER PROGRAM
ON-CAMPUS WELLNESS OPPORTUNITIES
Work Life Solutions: Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources
Tuition Benefits: Public Loan Forgiveness
Book scholarships
100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year (other rules may apply).
Retirement : Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)
Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan
8+ hours of vacation paid time off every month.
8 hours of sick leave time off every month.
8 hours of paid time off for Birthday leave.
12-15 paid holidays each year.