Principal Software Engineer (AI/ML Architect)

Overview In this Principal AI/ML role, you will define and steer UKG’s GenAI strategy and architecture, serving as the technical visionary for transformative AI initiatives. You’ll lead cross-functional work with product, data science, and engineering to embed GenAI capabilities across the product suite. You will stay at the cutting edge of generative AI, guiding production-grade implementations and mentoring leaders to elevate AI excellence across the organization. This is a chance to shape scalable, responsible AI that drives real business impact. ResponsibilitiesDefine and drive generative AI architecture strategy aligned with business goalsProvide hands-on guidance on advanced AI methods and set engineering standards for scalability and securityCollaborate with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to prioritize GenAI initiativesLead hands-on research and adoption of state-of-the-art GenAI techniquesMentor senior engineering leaders and promote AI excellence and best practicesAct as an ambassador for generative AI through publications and industry engagementOversee deployment of large-scale AI models with a focus on performance, cost, and production readinessDefine development methodologies, CI/CD standards, and maintain architectural documentation Key requirements12+ years in software development and AI with 5+ years in generative AI, NLP, or related fieldsProven experience architecting and deploying large-scale AI/ML systems in productionExpert-level programming in Python and/or JavaStrong cloud platform knowledge (AWS, Google Cloud, Azure) and MLOps practicesDeep knowledge of generative AI methods (transformers, diffusion models, GANs) and NLP algorithmsRecognized thought leader with publications and a broad AI research networkStrong problem-solving skills and ability to drive long-term AI-driven initiativesleadership and mentorshipexcellent communication and collaboration across functionsstrategic thinking with a practical, execution-focused mindsetPythonJavaTensorFlow