Morningstar Development Program (MDP): Associate Software Engineer (Central Tech AI)

Morningstar, Inc.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 83,000 - 101,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k match up to 6%

Stock Ownership Potential

Company-provided life insurance

Job summary

Morningstar, Inc. is seeking an Associate Software Engineer for the Central Technology AI team in Chicago. This full-time program targets graduates in 2026 with hands-on AI-driven development and mentorship to accelerate a software engineering career.

You will design AI-enabled solutions, collaborate across data scientists and engineers, and participate in projects that impact Morningstar's products and data. The role emphasizes ownership, communication, and fast-paced teamwork.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled or graduated by June 2026 in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or related field.
• A resume is required to apply; include the word “Resume” in the file name.

Responsibilities

• Contribute as a member of an Agile technology team, solving problems through research and hands-on development.
• Design, build, and enhance AI-enabled solutions using Python and AI tools.
• Collaborate with engineers, data scientists, and business partners to translate ideas into scalable solutions.
• Participate in individual and team projects, presenting findings to stakeholders and leaders.
• Engage in Morningstar training and development sessions to build a long-term technology career.

Skills

Python

AI tools

Self-starter

Communication skills

Education

CS/Engineering/Data Science degree

Tools

AI frameworks

ML libraries

Job description

Morningstar Development Program (MDP): Associate Software Engineer (Central Tech AI) - Morningstar# Careers at Morningstar## Morningstar Development Program (MDP): Associate Software Engineer (Central Tech AI)Apply: Chicago: Full time: Posted Today: End Date: November 9, 2026 (9 days left to apply): REQ-059108**The Group:**Technology drives our business. Our team is made up of talented software engineers, infrastructure engineers, data scientists, product leaders, and UX professionals. We care deeply about technology as a craft and a competitive differentiator.The **Central Technology AI team** sits at the heart of Morningstar’s technology organization, partnering across the firm to enable responsible, scalable, and innovative uses of artificial intelligence. We build and support AI-powered tools, platforms, and solutions that enhance how Morningstar teams work with data, insights, and products.The **Morningstar Development Program (MDP)** is a full-time opportunity designed to launch high-potential early career technologists into impactful, long-term careers at Morningstar. Participants gain hands-on experience through meaningful projects, mentorship from experienced leaders, and exposure to Morningstar’s products, data, and technology ecosystem.**The Role:**The **Morningstar Development Program – Central Technology AI** is accepting applicants graduating in **2026**. Successful candidates will join the Central Technology AI team and be given meaningful, hands-on work aligned to their technical background and interests.MDP associates are expected to take ownership of their work, collaborate across teams, and communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical partners. You will receive structured mentorship, regular feedback, and professional development opportunities throughout the program.All positions are based in our **Chicago office**, working **4 days a week**.**Responsibilities*** Contribute as a member of an Agile technology team, helping to solve business problems through research, analysis, and hands-on development.* Design, build, and enhance AI-enabled solutions, leveraging modern AI tools, frameworks, and programming languages such as **Python**.* Collaborate with engineers, data scientists, and business partners to translate ideas and requirements into practical, scalable solutions.* Participate in individual and team-based projects, presenting findings and outcomes to stakeholders and senior leaders.* Engage in training and development sessions across Morningstar to build a strong foundation for a long-term career in technology and AI.**Preferred Qualifications*** Experience using **AI tools, platforms, or frameworks** (e.g., generative AI tools, machine learning libraries, or AI-assisted development workflows).* **Strong coding skills**: experience with additional languages or data tools is a plus.* Demonstrated ability to work independently as a **self-starter**, taking initiative and ownership of projects.* Excellent **communication skills**, with the ability to explain technical concepts to diverse audiences.* Strong critical thinking and creative problem-solving abilities.* Ability to adapt quickly and thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.**Requirements*** Currently enrolled in and graduating by June 2026 or have completed degree program, preferably in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or a related field.* A resume is required to apply. **Please be sure to include the word “Resume” in the file name of your resume.** The start date for this role is January 11, 2027.The base salary for this role is $92,143.This role will be posted until November 9, 2026.**Compensation and Benefits**At Morningstar we believe people are at their best when they are at their healthiest. That’s why we champion your wellness through a wide range of programs that support all stages of your personal and professional life. Here are some examples of the offerings we provide:* Financial Health + 100% 401k match up to 6% of salary + Stock Ownership Potential + Company provided life insurance - 1x salary + commission* Physical Health + Comprehensive health benefits (medical/dental/vision) including potential premium discounts and company-provided HSA contributions (up to $500-$2,000 annually) for specific plans and coverages + Additional medical Wellness Incentives - up to $300-$600 annual + Company-provided long- and short-term disability insurance* Emotional Health + Trust-Based Time Off + 6-week Paid Sabbatical Program + 6-Week Paid Family Caregiving Leave + Competitive 8-24 Week Paid Parental Leave + Adoption Assistance + Leadership Coaching & Formal Mentorship Opportunities + Annual Flex Stipend - $1000 annually to cover personal education & well-being expenses + Tuition Reimbursement* Social Health + Charitable Matching Gifts program + Dollars for Doers volunteer program + Paid volunteering days + 15+ Employee Resource & Affinity GroupsMorningstar's hybrid work environment gives you the opportunity to collaborate in-person each week as we've found that we're at our best when we're purposely together on a regular basis. In most of our locations, our hybrid work model is four days in-office each week. A range of other benefits are also available to enhance flexibility as needs change. No matter where you are, you'll have tools and resources to engage meaningfully with your global colleagues.### About UsMorningstar is a global independent investment research and financial data company. Here, you'll help uncover what’s hidden, simplify what’s complex, and create insights that empower investor success.