Sr AI/ML Engineer - Remote Nationwide or Office-Based in MN/DC/NJ

Optum; Minnetonka (MN); Remote; USD 120,000 - 215,000; Full time

Job summary

Optum in the United States seeks a senior full-stack engineer to drive frontend and backend development across React.js, Java, and cloud-native services. You will design APIs, implement Kafka streaming, deploy on Kubernetes, and contribute to AI-powered solutions.

You will have remote work flexibility from anywhere in the U.S., with Minneapolis area colleagues in the office at least four days per week. The role offers a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for growth within a

Qualifications

• BS in CS/Software Eng or related field, or equivalent
• 4+ years full-stack engineering experience
• 3+ years AI/ML solutions with LLMs/Generative AI
• 3+ years cloud apps (AWS, GCP, Azure)
• 3+ years Kafka event streaming architecture
• 3+ years high-performance MySQL schemas for high-volume workloads
• 3+ years deploying microservices on Kubernetes
• 3+ years CI/CD and modern build pipelines

Responsibilities

• Develop frontend apps with React.js and TanStack Query
• Design and build REST/GraphQL APIs in Java with MySQL schemas
• Implement Kafka producers/consumers and schema design
• Deploy, scale and troubleshoot services on Kubernetes
• Set up GitHub Actions pipelines with Artifactory integration
• Leverage AI tools (GitHub Copilot) to improve code quality
• Monitor logs and performance with Splunk, Dynatrace, Zabbix, Grafana
• Write tests with CodeQL/SonarQube and ensure security/quality
• Participate in PLM, code reviews, agile ceremonies, document features
• Develop AI-powered solutions with responsible AI practices

Skills

Full-stack engineering

AI/ML solutions

Cloud experience

Kafka event streaming

Kubernetes/microservices

CI/CD + testing

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/SE or related field

Tools

React.js

TanStack Query

Java

REST & GraphQL APIs

MySQL

Kafka

Kubernetes

GitHub Actions

JFrog Artifactory

Splunk

Dynatrace

Zabbix

Grafana

CodeQL/SonarQube

Job description

Optum Tech is a global leader in health care innovation. Our teams develop cutting-edge solutions that help people live healthier lives and help make the health system work better for everyone. From advanced data analytics and AI to cybersecurity, we use innovative approaches to solve some of health care's most complex challenges. Your contributions here have the potential to change lives. Ready to build the next breakthrough? Join us in making healthcare work better for everyone through people-led, responsible AI while

Caring. Connecting. Growing together.

You'll enjoy the flexibility to work remotely * from anywhere within the U.S. as you take on some tough challenges. For all hires in the Minneapolis or Washington, D.C. area, you will be required to work in the office a minimum of four days per week.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop responsive and intuitive frontend applications using modern JavaScript frameworks (React.js preferred) and TanStack Query
• Design and build REST and GraphQL APIs in Java, integrating with high-performance MySQL database schemas optimized for high-volume transactional workloads
• Design and implement Kafka producers and consumers, including schema design, partitioning strategies, and reliable message processing
• Deploy, configure, scale, and troubleshoot services on Kubernetes-based platforms
• Setup and manage deployment pipelines using GitHub Actions, including reusable workflows, environment secrets, automated deployment rules, and JFrog Artifactory integration
• Use enterprise-approved AI-powered development tools (e.g., GitHub Copilot) for code generation, refactoring, debugging, workflow automation, and documentation
• Monitor logs, track performance trends, and proactively troubleshoot production issues using observability tools including Splunk, Dynatrace, Zabbix, and Grafana
• Write JUnit tests with high code coverage, utilizing static and dynamic analysis tools (e.g., CodeQL, SonarQube) to identify and remediate security and quality issues
• Participate in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) activities, code reviews, architectural discussions, and agile ceremonies while maintaining detailed documentation for application features and security controls
• Design, develop, and deploy AI-powered solutions to address complex business challenges with emphasis on responsible use of AI

You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related technical field, or equivalent practical experience
• 4+ years of full-stack engineering experience with solid backend and frontend development expertise
• 3+ years of expertise in building AI/ML solutions leveraging LLMs, Generative AI and models
• 3+ years of hands-on experience with building, deploying, and maintaining cloud applications (Eg, AWS, GCP, Azure)
• 3+ years of experience implementing event-driven streaming solutions with Apache Kafka, including schema design and partitioning strategies
• 3+ years of experience designing high-performance MySQL database schemas optimized for high-volume transactional workloads
• 3+ years of experience configuring, deploying, scaling, and troubleshooting microservices on Kubernetes-based container platforms
• 3+ years of experience with CI/CD tools, automated testing frameworks, and modern build pipelines

Preferred Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience developing responsive frontend applications using JavaScript/TypeScript, React.js, and TanStack Query
• 3+ years of experience using enterprise monitoring and observability platforms (Splunk, Dynatrace, Zabbix, Grafana) to track application health and resolve issues
• Experience building and deploying AI/ML solutions or integrating machine learning models into enterprise web applications
• Demonstrated familiarity with organizational release governance, PLM compliance, and automated security scanning workflows
• Hands-on experience leveraging AI-powered development tools (e.g., GitHub Copilot) to improve test coverage, code quality, and productivity
• All employees working remotely will be required to adhere to UnitedHealth Group's Telecommuter Policy.

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The salary for this role will range from $120,100 - $214,500 annually based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.

Application Deadline: This will be posted for a minimum of 2 business days or until a sufficient candidate pool has been collected. Job posting may come down early due to volume of applicants.

At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and help make the health system work better for everyone. Together, we are shaping the future of healthcare by harnessing technology and innovation to make care simpler to navigate, more affordable and more connected for the people we serve. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcomed, valued, heard and respected, empowering people to bring their authentic selves to work and strengthening our collective impact through diverse talents, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.

UnitedHealth Group and its affiliated brands are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.

UnitedHealth Group and its affiliated brands are a drug-free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.