Research Associate (Software Engineer - AI App Development)

The ideal candidate enjoys solving complex technical problems and using modern software and AI technologies to automate processes, build scalable applications, and transform clinical requirements into reliable production systems.

This position is particularly well suited for an engineer who has experience working across multiple areas of the software stack, including Python development, TypeScript/JavaScript applications, cloud infrastructure, databases, data pipelines, and emerging generative AI technologies.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, test, and maintain production-quality software applications using Python, JavaScript, and TypeScript.
• Develop AI-enabled applications and automated workflows incorporating large language models (LLMs), AI agents, and generative AI services.
• Build automation pipelines that reduce manual processes and improve operational efficiency.
• Integrate third-party APIs and AI platforms into production applications.
• Use Docker, Git, and modern development practices to support reliable deployment and version control.
• Analyze application and operational data to identify opportunities for automation and performance improvement.
• Collaborate with product, design, analytics, and engineering teams to translate clinical requirements into technical solutions.
• Evaluate emerging AI development tools and technologies and determine how they can be incorporated into existing products and workflows.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• 2+ years of professional software development, data engineering, automation, or related technical experience.
• Strong programming ability in Python.
• Experience with JavaScript and/or TypeScript.
• Experience building web applications using frameworks such as React, Angular, Node.js, Vite, or similar technologies.
• Experience developing or consuming REST APIs.
• Working knowledge of Git-based version control.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of projects from initial concept through implementation.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Computer Science or a related field.
• Experience developing applications using LLMs or generative AI platforms.
• Experience designing agentic or multi-agent AI workflows.
• Experience with AI-assisted development environments or coding agents.
• Familiarity with AI-based video, audio, or multimodal content-generation technologies.

What We're Looking For:

We're looking for someone who is both an engineer and a problem solver. You should be comfortable learning unfamiliar technologies, rapidly prototyping solutions, and then turning successful prototypes into maintainable software.

The successful candidate will have demonstrated an ability to:

• Use automation to dramatically reduce manual work.
• Work across frontend, backend, cloud, AI, and data technologies.
• Apply emerging AI technologies to practical business problems.
• Develop software in environments where requirements evolve quickly.
• Communicate effectively with both technical and nontechnical stakeholders.
• Independently investigate problems and develop creative technical solutions.

To Apply:

Please include a CV. Questions should be directed to Dr. Ben Nephew at bnephew@wpi.edu. Please use the subject line: Software Engineer - AI App Development

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Salary: $58,000 - $65,000. per year. Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity. WPI's benefits package includes a robust retirement match, wellness perks, tuition assistance and more!

FLSA STATUS

United States of America (Exempt)

WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making. It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.

To apply, visit: https://wpi.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/WPI_External_Career_Site/job/Worcester/Research-Associate--Software-Engineer---AI-App-Development-_R0003812

About WPI

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is a vibrant community of extraordinary students, talented and dedicated staff, and world-renowned faculty. Along with its state-of-the-art research facilities, WPI, offers competitive and comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, life and long-term disability insurance, retirement savings plans, tuition assistance, flexible spending and health savings accounts, and a working environment that prioritizes mental health and well-being. It is a community committed to civility and respect—making inclusion and belonging a reality for everyone on its campus.