Principal AI Software Architect

Brief Description

Position Type: Contract-to-hire

Pay: $80-$85/hr LaunchCode Benefits

Location: Hybrid (Tuesday & Wednesday onsite) - St. Louis, MO

Years of Experience Required: 7

Hiring Timeline: Immediate

Company: The name of our partner organization will be disclosed during the interview process. This is not a direct role with LaunchCode; it is a position through LaunchCode, working with one of our partner companies.

Disclaimer: We are unable to provide work sponsorship for this role. We are unable to consider candidates for this role who have a current or future work sponsorship need (this includes those holding extended OPT Visas).

The Principal Artificial Intelligence (AI) Software Architect leads the design, development, and deployment of advanced AI and software engineering solutions across the enterprise. This role blends deep expertise in artificial intelligence with architectural leadership in software systems, driving innovation, scalability, and excellence in engineering practices.

Principal Responsibilities And Duties

• Architects and leads the development of AI-driven platforms and scalable software systems aligned with strategic business goals.
• Collaborates cross-functionally with engineering, product, and business teams to define use cases and deliver impactful solutions.
• Evaluates and selects AI and software technologies, frameworks, and tools for optimal performance, scalability, and maintainability.
• Establishes and promotes best practices in AI model development, MLOps, software engineering, DevOps, and system architecture.
• Mentors engineering teams, fostering a culture of innovation, excellence, and continuous improvement.
• Drives technical strategy and long-term planning, aligning engineering efforts with enterprise objectives.
• Ensures compliance with data privacy, security, and ethical standards in all AI and software initiatives.
• Champions engineering excellence through code reviews, automated testing, CI/CD, and agile methodologies.
• Other duties as needed or assigned.
  
  

Skills And Abilities Required

• Hands-on experience driving innovation through emerging technologies and methodologies.
• Excellent communication skills and leadership skills with a track record of mentoring and influencing teams.
• Proven experience designing and deploying AI/ML and software solutions at scale in cloud environments such as Azure, AWS, GCP.
• Expertise in machine learning, deep learning NLP, computer vision, and generative AI.
• Ability to demonstrate strategic thinking and the ability to align technical vision with business objectives.
• Ability to build trust and influence across all levels of the organization, driving consensus and momentum for complex initiatives.
• Advanced knowledge of programming languages within the respective divisions.
• Advanced knowledge of applicable data privacy practices and laws.
• Advanced analytical, conceptual, and problem-solving abilities.
• Advanced level of written and oral communication skills.
• Advanced level of interpersonal and consultative skills.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment.
• Ability to work in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.
  
  

Minimum Level Of Preparation And Training Normally Required

• A bachelor’s degree in the field of computer science, information systems, or computer engineering or equivalent experience.
• 7 years of experience in software architecture and engineering, with at least 2 years focused on AI/ML systems.
• 5 years of hands-on experience with application development tools, including Visual Studio .NET.
• 5 years of hands-on experience with relational database technology, preferably MS SQL Server.