AI/Machine Learning Engineer - Python - Loops

IFS is hiring a software engineer for an AI and Machine Learning focused backend role built around intelligent agent workflows. In this onsite position in Palo Alto, CA, you will design and optimize server-side systems that bring applied AI/ML capabilities to enterprise solutions, combining Python backend engineering with LLM workflows, RAG, and vector database patterns.

What IFS offers

• Salary range: $110,000 to $120,000 per year, plus potential bonus
• Flexible paid time off, including sick and holiday
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401K with company contribution
• Flexible spending accounts
• Life insurance and disability benefits
• Tuition assistance
• Community involvement and volunteering events

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain Python-based services, integrations, and data pipelines that support AI agent functionality
• Create reusable libraries, APIs, and frameworks to speed up AI-driven product capabilities
• Maintain code quality, scalability, and maintainability using testing, CI/CD, and performance monitoring
• Implement and optimize workflows using LLMs, embeddings, RAG systems, and vector databases
• Integrate AI/ML libraries and external APIs such as OpenAI and Hugging Face
• Use tools including LangChain and vector databases such as Pinecone and Weaviate as part of deployed solutions
• Experiment with prompt engineering and fine-tuning to improve reliability and performance
• Partner with product and core engineering teams to translate requirements into technical solutions
• Contribute to architecture decisions and maintain internal technical documentation
• Support deployment of agents into enterprise environments, with emphasis on stability, accuracy, and scale

Requirements

• 2–5 years of professional experience as a Python Engineer / Backend Engineer; AI/ML experience is a strong plus
• Strong proficiency in Python and familiarity with JavaScript/TypeScript for integrations
• Hands-on knowledge of AI/ML tools and frameworks including OpenAI, Hugging Face, LangChain, RAG, and vector databases
• Comfort working with RESTful APIs, JSON, and data pipelines
• Experience with enterprise systems (CRM, ERP, Helpdesk, Developer platforms, HR/Finance systems) is a plus
• Strong skills in debugging, testing, and optimization
• Ability to write clean, maintainable, and well-documented code

Technologies you will work with

Python, JavaScript, TypeScript, OpenAI, Hugging Face, LangChain, vector databases, RAG systems, Pinecone, Weaviate, RESTful APIs, JSON, CI/CD

What success looks like in 3–6 months

• Build confidence in the internal platform by delivering integrations and Python services
• Ship backend components that integrate AI/ML capabilities into enterprise workflows
• Contribute to reusable libraries, deployment pipelines, and system reliability practices
• Collaborate effectively with other engineers and product teams, influencing technical direction

M/F/Disabled/Vet VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We are a Drug-Free Workplace. Apply at: www.ifs.com/about/careers-at-ifs.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. VEVRAA Federal Contractor, Equal Opportunity Employer.