Assistant Applications Specialist (Data & AI Analyst)

Assistant Applications Specialist (Data & AI Analyst)
6-month contract-to-hire
Kansas City, MO
Pay Rate: $30-$37hr

Job Description:
The Assistant Applications Specialist will assist in developing and advancing software technology and tools throughout the organization. This position will work throughout the development and implementation process according to organization budget constraints and internal and external client needs.

• Partner with internal business customers to understand data, automation, and reporting needs, and translate them into working solutions.
• Use AI tools (Claude Code, Codex, and similar) to prompt effectively, build automations, and stand up AI agents that solve real business problems.
• Write and optimize SQL for data analysis, reporting, and light data modeling work.
• Apply basic Python scripting with the support of AI tools to build automation and analysis tasks.
• Collaborate with software developers to help scale, harden, and operationalize applications that started as rapid prototypes or "vibe coded” apps.
• Work within GitHub and VS Code as part of the standard development workflow.
• Operate comfortably across cloud environments, including Azure, GCP, and AWS, as engagements require.
• Act as a go-to resource for internal teams with a customer-first mindset looking to apply AI tooling to everyday data and automation challenges.
• Assist in developing applications, reports and dashboards for internal and external clients.
• Assist in developing solutions specific to reporting platforms offered throughout the organization, including Microsoft Power Apps and Power Bi.
• Assist in configuring security and automation flow routines within applications.
• Assists project staff in producing deliverables for project needs and requirements set forth by the project managers.
• Assist with new software applications to support project delivery and data management initiatives.
• Assist in technology and software applications to support all markets within the Company.
• Assists with research and compiles project-related data as required by the project managers.
• Assist disciplines and different business units in developing software and technology to optimize business processes and deliverables, provide seamless integration, and improve data management.
• Apply basic knowledge of Client Safety and Quality Control programs. Escalate risk related to compliance with company and customer policies.
• Minimum of a 3.0 GPA strongly preferred.
• Involvement on campus or in the community preferred.
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work permanently (i.e., without time limitations, without restrictions or without need for work sponsorship) in the country where this position is located.
• Performs other duties as assigned
• Complies with all policies and standards

Requirements:

• 1-5 years of relevant experience in a data analyst, automation, or similar hands-on technical role.
• Strong working knowledge of SQL and basic data modeling concepts.
• Working proficiency in Python (this is an analyst-level need, not full data engineering depth).
• Demonstrated experience using AI coding/agent tools such as Claude Code and Codex preferred - including prompt engineering skills
• Bachelor Degree in Engineering Technology, computer science, or related degree from an accredited program.

Required

• Prior internship and/or related consulting experience

Preferred

• Basic knowledge of software development and programming experience preferred.
• Basic knowledge of software and hardware system architecture
• Basic knowledge of standard engineering techniques, principles and procedures.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work methodically and analytically in a quantitative problem-solving environment and demonstrated critical thinking skills.
• Proficient computer skills (e.g. Microsoft Office Suite).
• Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, organization and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated leadership skills.

ESPO Corporation
www.espocorp.com
630-789-2525
View all open jobs at www.espocorp.com/jobs

Leaders in Technical Recruiting & Staffing since 1965

ESPO has a comprehensive benefits package which includes PTO, Group Health and Dental Insurance, and 401k after you have satisfied the necessary waiting periods.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and value the benefits of diversity in our workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity and expression, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, or any other attribute or protected characteristic by law. If you need assistance applying, please get in touch with us directly.