Principal Software & AI Engineer

The Principal Software & AI Engineer is responsible for leading the design, development, and implementation of advanced digital and AI-driven software solutions across the Digital Solutions team. This role combines deep technical expertise with strategic leadership, driving innovation through applied artificial intelligence, machine learning, and software architecture. The Principal Software & AI Engineer manages the digital solutions software technology roadmap, aligns technical objectives with organizational goals, evaluates external technologies, and ensures the successful execution of high-impact software initiatives.

This position serves as a key technical leader, collaborating with cross-functional stakeholders, and guiding the company’s digital and AI strategy toward scalable, efficient, and forward-looking solutions.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Define, maintain, and execute the digital solutions team roadmap to align software projects with corporate and departmental goals.

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of enterprise-grade software applications using modern frameworks and cloud infrastructure.
• Collaborate with the General Manager and executive leadership to ensure software initiatives deliver measurable results and align with all relevant corporate initiatives
• Establish and maintain engineering standards, best practices, and system architecture documentation.
• Research, develop, and deploy AI-driven systems and solutions that enhance internal efficiency and/or client-facing capabilities.
• Lead AI feasibility studies, prototype development, and full implementation of AI frameworks including machine learning, LLMs, and computer vision.
• Vet, evaluate, and integrate AI platforms and third-party tools for scalability, compliance, and strategic value.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to identify and prioritize AI adoption opportunities and automation initiatives.
• Identify, assess, and manage relationships with external software and AI vendors.
• Conduct technical due diligence for third-party solutions, ensuring alignment with company standards and security requirements.
• Oversee vendor contracts, integrations, and long-term technology partnerships, coordinating with internal legal department.
• Lead by example, collaborating within the digital solutions team, fostering professional development and technical growth.
• Collaborate across departments—R&D, Manufacturing, Operations, and Product Management—to synchronize digital strategies and roadmaps.
• Communicate project progress, risks, and outcomes to leadership and stakeholders.
• Stay informed on advancements in AI, ML, XR, and emerging software technologies.
• Drive innovation through rapid prototyping, experimentation, and adoption of new tools.
• Recommend and implement process automation and workflow optimization strategies.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement and ethical technology development.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Communicate respectfully and effectively across all levels of the organization.
• Promote a collaborative and positive team environment, modeling integrity and accountability.
• Assist in defining and maintaining departmental policies, standards, and documentation.
• Provide technical consultation for other departments as needed.
• Participate in strategic planning sessions and contribute to long-term digital transformation initiatives.
• Maintain awareness of security, compliance, and data privacy best practices related to software and AI implementations.
• Support the onboarding and technical training of new team members.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines and maintaining high-quality outcomes.
• Report potential issues, risks, or opportunities for improvement promptly to leadership.
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