Lead Conversational AI Developer

Duties and 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 practicesRequired Qualifications:* 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 technologyThe University of Maryland Global Campus Global Campus (UMGC) is committed to creating and maintaining a welcoming and inclusive working environment for people of all abilities. UMGC is dedicated to the principle that no qualified individual with a disability shall, based on disability, be excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of the services, programs, or activities of the University, or be subjected to discrimination. For information about UMGC's Reasonable Workplace Accommodation Policy or to request an accommodation, applicants/candidates can contact Employee Accommodations via email at 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. J-18808-Ljbffr