Lead Software Engineer - AI

Job Description

Appian is seeking a Lead Software Engineer to drive the development of its AI-powered low-code platform. This role involves leading a team of engineers in designing and implementing scalable solutions, leveraging expertise in Java, Python, JavaScript, and AWS services. The Lead Software Engineer will integrate AI technologies such as Large Language Models (LLMs), Generative AI, AWS Bedrock, and Anthropic Claude.

The ideal candidate will guide the team, ensuring alignment with Appian’s AI strategy and fostering a culture of excellence. They will also collaborate with product managers and stakeholders to define project requirements and timelines.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of enterprise-grade, full-stack applications with a strong emphasis on AI integration.
• Mentor and guide a team of software engineers.
• Architect and implement complex software solutions, ensuring scalability, reliability, and security.
• Drive the adoption of best practices in software development.
• Collaborate with product managers and other stakeholders to define project requirements and timelines.
• Lead technical discussions and provide guidance on architectural decisions.
• Proactively identify and resolve technical challenges.
• Ensure the availability, latency, scalability, efficiency, and security of our platform.
• Troubleshoot, investigate, and diagnose incidents using advanced tracing, alerting, and log analysis.
• Contribute to software performance analysis and system tuning.
• Build automation to prevent problem recurrence.
• Create and maintain comprehensive technical documentation.
• Effectively communicate complex technical designs to diverse audiences.
• Take ownership of team performance, quality, stability, and velocity.
• Champion Agile methodologies and a quality-first culture.

Requirements:

• BS in Computer Science or related field/degree; MS in Computer Science preferred.
• 8+ years of experience building and delivering enterprise-grade software applications.
• Proven experience leading software development teams, including teams focused on AI.
• Experience in a high-volume or critical production service environment.
• Expert proficiency in Java, JavaScript, Spring, JPA, JDBC, Hibernate, React, Gradle, and Git.
• Deep understanding of web technologies and AWS cloud services.
• Demonstrated experience with AI technologies, including Large Language Models (LLMs), Generative AI, Machine Learning (ML), and Prompt Engineering.
• Ability to apply both object-oriented and functional programming approaches.
• Strong advocate for industry best practices, including platform development, DevOps, and CI/CD.
• Exceptional problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• A relentless curiosity and passion for innovation, particularly in the field of AI.
• Agile mindset and unwavering commitment to quality.

Appian offers:

• Training and Development: Department-specific training, mentorship, and the First-Friend program.
• Growth Opportunities: Leadership program, Appian University, skills-based training, and tuition reimbursement.
• Community: Inclusivity through employee-led affinity groups.