We are looking for a Lead Python AI Engineer to build robust, AI-powered API services and agentic workflows. In this role, you will bridge the gap between traditional backend systems and modern language models, focusing on secure and scalable LLM interactions with internal systems, vector databases, and external tools via orchestration frameworks.We treat LLMs not as magic, but as components in a secure, scalable distributed system. If you take pride in API reliability, graceful failure handling, and production-grade AI integration, we’d love to talk to you.Req# 1109260679ResponsibilitiesEnd-to-End Ownership: Own API contracts and service reliability end-to-end. AI edge cases must fail gracefully without compromising system integrityRigorous Systems Engineering: Integrate LLMs with a strong engineering foundation—baking in evaluation, comprehensive observability, robust fallback handling, and cost awarenessReusable Frameworks: Build reliable, reusable orchestration frameworks and logic designed for downstream developer consumptionDesign and build scalable backend API services and advanced LLM orchestration layersImplement and maintain complex RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) pipelines, covering document ingestion, chunking, embedding, and retrieval optimizationDevelop and connect agent tools using LangChain, LangGraph, and potentially MCP (Model Context Protocol)Ensure top-tier security, privacy, enterprise-grade observability, and comprehensive test coverage across all backend workflowsContribute actively to architecture decisions and engineering standards within your podCollaborate cross-functionally with frontend engineers, data engineers, and infrastructure teamsRequirementsBackend Experience: 7+ years of backend engineering with a heavy focus on microservices and distributed systems, using Python for high-performance backend services and cloud-native APIsCloud & Infrastructure: Hands-on experience with AWS, Docker, ECS/EKS, and RESTful APIsSecurity First: Proven experience with secure coding practices and strong authentication/authorization (auth/authz) fundamentalsAgentic Frameworks: Practical, hands-on experience with frameworks such as LangChain, LlamaIndex, or LangGraphAI SDK Integration: 1–2+ years of hands-on experience integrating AI SDKs (OpenAI, Anthropic/Claude, AWS Bedrock, or equivalent) in production environmentsAI Observability & Evaluation: Familiarity with AI evaluation tooling or real-time APM platforms (e.g., LangSmith, Langfuse, Arize)RAG Pipelines: Practical experience working with vector databases (e.g., Amazon Kendra, OpenSearch), advanced embedding strategies, and retrieval systemsNice to haveFrontend Fluency: 1–2+ years of experience with React and TypeScriptScale & Deployment: Experience deploying applications to EKS environments at scaleInteroperability & Security: Knowledge of agent interoperability patterns (MCP) and identity/security domain models (IAM, CIAM)Secondary Languages: Professional proficiency in Java, Node.js, or GoWe offerMedical, Dental and Vision Insurance (Subsidized)Health Savings AccountFlexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare, Dependent Care, Commuter)Short-Term and Long-Term Disability (Company Provided)Life and AD&D Insurance (Company Provided)Employee Assistance ProgramUnlimited access to LinkedIn learning solutionsMatched 401(k) Retirement Savings PlanPaid Time Off – the employee will be eligible to accrue 15-25 paid days, depending on specific level and tenure with EPAM (accrual eligibility may change over time)Paid Holidays - nine (9) total per yearLegal Plan and Identity Theft ProtectionAccident InsuranceEmployee DiscountsPet InsuranceEmployee Stock Purchase ProgramIf otherwise eligible, participation in the discretionary annual bonus programIf otherwise eligible and hired into a qualifying level, participation in the discretionary Long-Term Incentive (LTI) ProgramFor remote work in New York City only.EPAM is a leading global provider of digital platform engineering and development services. We are committed to having a positive impact on our clients, our employees, and our communities. We embrace a dynamic and inclusive culture. Here you will collaborate with multi-national teams, contribute to a myriad of innovative projects that deliver the most creative and cutting-edge solutions, and have an opportunity to continuously learn and grow. No matter where you are located, you will join a dedicated, creative, and diverse community that will help you discover your fullest potential.Engineer the Future with a Career at EPAMThis posting includes a good faith range of the salary EPAM would reasonably expect to pay the selected candidate. The range provided reflects base salary only. Individual compensation offers within the range are based on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to: geographic location, experience, credentials, education, training; the demand for the role; and overall business and labor market considerations. Most candidates are hired at a salary within the range disclosed. Salary range: $130,000 - $160,000. In addition, the details highlighted in this job posting above are a general description of all other expected benefits and compensation for the position.Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.EPAM will not provide new H-1B visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates with existing transferable H-1B status may be considered.It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.