AI Engineer

Key Skills

Aartificial intelligence, Analytical and Problem solving, Effective communication skills, Large Language Models - LLMs, Machine learning techniques

Job Description

Institute for Informatics and Applied Technology (IIAT) – AI/ML Research & Development Position

The Institute for Informatics and Applied Technology (IIAT) aims to drive faculty, student, and community innovations through responsible artificial intelligence and data science practices. By offering rigorous academic programs, collaborating with industry, and fostering interdisciplinary research, IIAT prepares students and professionals for leadership in informatics while critically assessing the ethical and societal implications of emerging technologies.

This position will be responsible for exploring, developing, and utilizing advancements in AI and machine learning to enhance the university’s and its partners' knowledge and competency in these areas. The role will contribute to responsible learning, teaching, and business operations through innovative technology solutions. The selected candidate will work closely with the IIAT Director and other staff members to further develop expertise in AI/ML and its societal impact.

Essential Functions:

35% - Investigate and Develop AI/ML Software Stack for Partners

• Collaborate with faculty, students, staff, and external partners to design AI/ML systems, including generative AI, for education, research, and business applications.
• Independently develop AI technology prototypes tailored to partner needs.
• Provide support and guidance to partners in acquiring necessary AI/ML skills.

30% - Research and Report AI/ML Technology Advances

• Continuously explore advancements in AI/ML, including LLM architectures, prompt engineering, fine-tuning, and guardrails.
• Apply cutting-edge AI techniques to support teaching, research, and business operations.
• Regularly investigate and report on generative AI developments to IIAT staff.
• Collaborate with the Director and partners to disseminate research findings through publications, blog posts, and GitHub releases.

15% - Develop Training and Learning Materials

• Design AI/ML exercises for experiential learning, accommodating diverse backgrounds.
• Work with the IIAT team to create AI/ML training resources for faculty, students, and partners.
• Support the delivery and assessment of AI/ML training programs.

10% - Manage Human-AI Collaboratory (HAC-Lab)

• Assess and provide recommendations for computing resources in the HAC-Lab.
• Ensure the security and maintenance of the lab’s virtualized AI environment.

10% - Supervise Student Assistants in AI Research

• Mentor and supervise student researchers in AI/ML development projects.
• Provide guidance to students in their AI research and innovation efforts.

Additional Duties: As assigned by the department.

Educational Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree or Equivalent Experience

Experience Requirement:

• 3 years of related experience
• In lieu of a formal degree, candidates may qualify with equivalent professional experience at a ratio of one year of experience per year of education.

Skills & Abilities:

• Minimum of two (2) years of technology development experience in AI/ML.
• Demonstrated ability in software prototyping.
• Intellectual curiosity and a passion for continuous learning, discovery, and innovation.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for engaging with internal and external partners.
• Ability to navigate and work effectively in a higher education environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Graduate degree or equivalent experience in a related field.
• Experience in data curation, data collection, and data cleaning.
• Proven ability to collaborate across disciplines.
• Creative problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities with frequent interruptions.
• Commitment to excellent customer service.
• Ability to operate with confidence and discretion in decision-making.

Physical & On-Campus Requirements:

• In-Office Presence: Required 5 days/week for on-site work and in-person meetings.
• Standing/Sitting: Ability to remain in a stationary position for prolonged periods (>75% of the time).
• Walking: Frequent movement required (>75% of the time).
• Lifting/Carrying: Occasionally required to transport objects up to 50 pounds (1%-49% of the time).
• Attention to Detail: Ability to focus on detailed tasks (>75% of the time).
• Problem-Solving: Daily responsibility for identifying and resolving issues (>75% of the time).

Compensation:

• Budgeted salary range: $105,000 - $112,000
• Full pay range: $81,600 - $136,000
• Eligible for relocation reimbursement and signing bonus

Required Application Materials:

• CV/Resume: Include technical skills and AI/ML project experience.
• Cover Letter: Outline personal and professional interests related to this role, along with relevant experience and skills.

Total Rewards Statement:

At Gonzaga, we value the well-being and contributions of our colleagues. In compliance with Washington State’s Pay Transparency Act, we disclose both the full salary range for this position and the budgeted salary range. Additionally, we offer a competitive benefits package, which varies based on position type and hours worked. To explore our benefits, please refer to the Gonzaga Employee Benefit Guide.