Job Title: Consulting Data & AI Engineer
Department: Professional Services- Systems
Reports To: Director of Professional Services Systems
Location: Clive, IA; Cedar Rapids, IA; or Omaha, NE
Job Summary: The Consulting Data & AI Engineer is a key position on our Professional Services team that designs, develops, implements, and maintains data and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for clients. While working in fast-paced environments, the position’s primary focus is to deliver data engineering, integration, analytics, and AI-enabled application projects, and interface with clients to help them address business needs through practical, secure, and maintainable technology solutions.
Essential Functions:
- Implement best-in-class data and AI technology projects that address client business needs.
- Consult with clients to understand business objectives, existing data environments, and technical requirements; translate those needs into effective solution designs.
- Design, develop, and maintain data pipelines, integrations, data models, and ETL/ELT processes that make client data reliable, accessible, and useful.
- Develop and optimize SQL queries, database structures, and data solutions that support reporting, analytics, and AI-enabled applications.
- Connect AI capabilities to client data sources, APIs, applications, and business systems while considering security, privacy, and access controls.
- Evaluate AI use cases, build prototypes or proofs of concept, and test solutions for accuracy, reliability, performance, and business value.
- Communicate both big-picture business drivers and technical details throughout projects.
- Estimate project effort, identify risks and dependencies, communicate project status, and help ensure solutions are delivered within agreed scope and timelines.
- Provide client assistance by troubleshooting technical issues and collaborating with internal and vendor technical resources until a solution is reached.
- Document solution designs, data flows, configurations, and implementation procedures to support ongoing maintenance and knowledge transfer.
- Attend vendor training, conferences, webinars, and continuing education to maintain current knowledge of relevant technology and research industry best practices.
- Gain and maintain certifications in areas of expertise.
- Advocate positive culture and collaborate with team members to share knowledge, reusable tools, and best practices.
- Provide feedback to executive and technical teams to participate in functionality roadmap planning and the continued development of CAIT’s data and AI services.
- Benchmark, analyze, report on, and make recommendations for the improvement and growth of professional and managed services technology offerings.
- Identify opportunities to improve client outcomes and support revenue growth through additional data, analytics, automation, and AI solutions.
- Meet established project delivery, client service, and billable-hour expectations.
- Perform other tasks as needed or requested.
Education and Experience:
- 7+ years of related experience in data engineering, software engineering, analytics engineering, business intelligence, or a related technology discipline required.
- Demonstrated experience designing, developing, and supporting data pipelines, data integrations, data models, or data-intensive applications.
- Strong SQL skills and experience with relational databases, data warehousing, and ETL/ELT processes.
- Experience developing and deploying technical solutions in cloud or enterprise environments.
- Programming experience in one or more languages used for data engineering such as Python, SQL, Rust, or similar.
- Experience with Microsoft cloud and data technologies, such as Azure, Microsoft Fabric, Azure Data Factory, Snowflake, Databricks, or related services, preferred.
- Experience with large language models (LLMs), generative AI, AI agents, retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), embeddings, or vector search preferred.
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred; equivalent practical experience may be considered.
- Certifications are highly encouraged, especially in data, cloud, software development, and AI technologies.
Desired Qualifications/Skills:
- Client-facing communication and soft skills to work with management, client technology teams, end users, and technical vendors on technical issues as they relate to projects or client needs.
- Excellent communication skills, including the ability to explain technical concepts and business implications to technical and nontechnical audiences.
- The ability to create lasting relationships with client technology teams.
- An entrepreneurial mindset with an understanding of revenue growth as a business driver.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, troubleshooting, and attention-to-detail skills.
- High level of self-motivation and accountability.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and add value under the pressure of time constraints in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
- Ability to learn new technologies, research industry best practices, and recommend practical solutions.
- Ability to travel in various capacities, including but not limited to client sites, training seminars, trade shows, and corporate events.
- Ability to work in an environment that may require sitting for extended periods of time and dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard and mouse.
Benefits & Perks:
We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our team members both personally and professionally, including:
- 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
- Opportunities for quarterly bonuses (variable pay)
- Paid time off and volunteer time off
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and eligible dependents
- 100% company-paid life insurance and short-term and long-term disability insurance
- Flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts
- Career development and advancement opportunities
- Professional development and training opportunities
- Company-paid vendor certifications and training
- Mentorship and opportunities to work on diverse projects
- Hybrid and flexible work arrangements, depending on the position and business needs
- Wellness and financial resources
- A culture-rich organization with a family-valued atmosphere.
A full summary of available benefits is provided during the interview and onboarding process.