AVP Senior AI ML Engineer

Job Purpose & Scope

Leads the development of scalable artificial intelligence (AI) systems, focusing on prompt tuning, retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) pipelines, and microservices architecture to advance Bank OZK's enterprise AI initiatives. Collaborates across teams to deliver production-ready AI applications that drive innovation, operational efficiency, and enhanced customer experiences.

Essential Job Functions

1. Designs and optimizes prompts for Gen AI and Agentic models/systems, large language models (LLMs) such as GPT, LLaMA, Mistral, and Gemini to achieve business-focused outcomes.
2. Develops and maintains retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) pipelines and agentic workflows using tools like LangGraph, AutoGen, Milvus, Pinecone, or Weaviate.
3. Builds cloud-native, scalable microservices to support AI applications in production environments.
4. Implements AI-powered applications using Python and Java, ensuring robust and maintainable codebases.
5. Supports data ingestion, preprocessing, and feature engineering to enable effective model training and deployment.
6. Assists in the deployment, monitoring, versioning, and scaling of AI systems on cloud platforms.
7. Collaborates with senior engineers, product managers, and research scientists to deliver enterprise-grade AI solutions.
8. Monitors advancements in AI/ML research and tools to inform ongoing development and strategic direction.
9. Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

1. General knowledge of model fine-tuning and optimization techniques.
2. General knowledge of distributed systems and microservices architecture beyond AI applications.
3. General knowledge of machine learning fundamentals.
4. Strong problem-solving skills and ability to translate business challenges into technical solutions.
5. Effective collaboration and communication skills across cross-functional teams.
6. Proficient skill with agentic AI orchestration tools such as LangGraph, AutoGen, and Camunda.
7. Strong organizational, critical thinking, and time management skills.
8. Proficient skill in Python and Java for AI application development.
9. Strong skills in LLMs, NLP, and GenAI applications.
10. Skill with cloud platforms (e.g. AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform) and containerization technologies (e.g. Docker, Kubernetes).
11. Skill with databases including SQL, NoSQL, and vector databases.
12. Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion and sound judgment in technical decision-making.
13. Ability to work under minimal supervision.
14. Ability to manage multiple projects or assignments and demonstrate flexibility in a continually changing environment.
15. Ability to build scalable microservices and RAG systems.

Basic Qualifications

1. Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, AI/ML, Data Science, or a related field, or commensurate work experience required.
2. 4+ years of experience in AI/ML engineering or applied AI system development, required.

Job Expectations

Job Expectations: Operate customary equipment and technology used in a business environment, with or without accommodation.

Note: This description is not an exhaustive list of all job functions, duties, skills, and job standards required. Other job functions, duties, skills, and standards may be added. Management reserves the right to add or change the job requirements at any time.

EEO Statement

Bank OZK is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, and local law. Member FDIC.