About the Role
Principal AI Software EngineeringIntroductionWe''re seeking a tech lead with 10+ years of experience in AI-driven software engineering to lead initiatives in Irving, TX. You''ll drive AI adoption, architecture, and best practices across cloud-native platforms and distributed systems. Expertise in AI coding tools, Java/Spring Boot, Python, and Kubernetes is required. You''ll mentor teams, partner with stakeholders, and contribute to engineering strategy. The role involves assessing AI platforms, defining standards, and integrating AI into the SDLC. You''ll lead workshops, drive innovation, and improve developer experience. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are a must. Max pay rate is $70/hr on C2C for local consultants only.
ResponsibilitiesIdentify cloud capabilities and benchmark industry adaptationAssess Kubernetes fitReview ICS/ACT technologies (Remote Services, Minestar)Challenge solutions and drive alternative architecture optionsPartner with GIS, Security, and other teams on solution designEvaluate and benchmark AI coding platformsDefine AI best practices, standards, governance, and adoption frameworksIdentify and execute AI pilot initiatives (Atlas, Physical AI, enterprise)Design agentic, spec-driven, and autonomous development workflowsMeasure developer productivity, quality, SDLC efficiency, and outcomesCreate reference architectures, implementation patterns, and guidance for AI-native developmentIntegrate AI into development lifecycle with architects, managers, product, and platform teamsRequirementsRequired SkillsCursor, Claude Code, or GitHub Copilot (or similar AI coding tools)Java/Spring BootPythonDistributed systemsAPIs and integration servicesCloud-native platformsSoftware architecture and engineering best practicesPrompt engineeringAgentic development workflowsEngineering metrics and productivity measurementInfrastructure and cloudDocker, containers, KubernetesIT security, server/storageSecurity standardsDevOpsPreferred SkillsSpecification-driven developmentRobotics, Physical AI, Simulation, or Digital TwinAWS or AzureDeveloper experience platformsSoft SkillsRequiredProblem-solving and analytical thinkingAgile/Scrum team collaborationVerbal and written communicationCross-functional/distributed team collaborationAmbiguity toleranceOwnership and accountabilityTechnical documentationDesiredMentoring junior engineersTechnical leadership and design reviewsStakeholder management and vendor collaborationContinuous improvementGlobal team experienceDisqualifiers (Red Flags)No hands-on backend developmentLimited API, integration, or distributed systems experienceFront-end only experienceNo Agile/Scrum experienceCannot contribute to cloud-native service development or troubleshooting