Software Engineer (Hybrid) - 28171

Job Description Enlighten is a cutting‑edge technology company dedicated to developing innovative software solutions for our clients. We are currently seeking a talented and experienced Software Engineer to build foundational AI integration frameworks. As a Software Engineer focused on AI Integration, you will design, develop, and implement the "paved road" for AI at our company. This role focuses on applying industry best‑practice open‑source capabilities, large language models (LLMs), and enterprise integration—not on training foundational AI models from scratch. You will collaborate with other engineers to create secure, enterprise‑grade AI software solutions, including Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers, reusable AI skills, and strict safety guardrails that meet clients’ complex needs. In this role you will work with modern tools and technologies at the intersection of complex backend engineering and applied AI. You will be encouraged to stay up‑to‑date with the latest developments in the field and will be part of a dynamic, collaborative team committed to delivering high‑quality, secure software solutions. If you are a self‑motivated, creative, detail‑oriented engineer passionate about treating AI as a complex software integration problem, we would love to hear from you. Responsibilities Have a strong working knowledge and experience developing Java‑based software. Design and develop foundational AI frameworks, including internal APIs, middleware, and routing layers that enable other systems to securely utilize AI capabilities. Build Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers and a library of reusable "skills" (function calling/tools) for AI models to safely interact with internal databases, microservices, and external APIs. Implement strict enterprise AI guardrails, ensuring data privacy, sensitive data scrubbing, prompt injection defenses, and output validation to meet stringent security requirements. Show inquisitive nature, responsiveness, and excellent testing skills (including interest in automated testing pipelines for non‑deterministic AI outputs). Possess strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to work under pressure with multiple deadlines. Work in a fast‑paced, small business environment with our talented team. Perform other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Security Clearance – U.S. citizenship required; a U.S. Government Security Clearance is not required on the first day but will be processed for one. Candidates with a current Secret level clearance are also considered. 2+ years of experience in Software Engineering, Modern Java Frameworks and Libraries (e.g., Spring, Guava) and a Bachelors in a related field; or 0 years of relevant experience with a Masters; or a High School Diploma or equivalent and 6 years relevant experience. Applied AI Experience – hands‑on experience or strong aptitude for integrating commercial LLM APIs (e.g., OpenAI, Anthropic) or open‑source models into backend applications. Demonstrated understanding of modern applied AI concepts such as prompt engineering, function‑calling/tool use, and Retrieval‑Augmented Generation (RAG). Experience designing enterprise APIs. Experience with RESTful web services. Experience with Microservices architecture. Experience in Object‑Oriented Programming (OOP) paradigms. Experience with the agile software lifecycle. Experience with configuration management tools (e.g., Git, Nexus, Maven). Comfortable working on a Linux command line. Proven ability to learn quickly and work well independently as well as in a team setting. Problem‑solving skills and ability to review information and compile data appropriately as needed. Must be able to work in a hybrid environment, spending an average of 1–2 days per week at our Columbia, MD office. Flexibility is essential to adapt to schedule changes as needed. Preferred Requirements Familiarity with Java‑based AI integration frameworks (e.g., Spring AI, LangChain4j) or Python equivalents (LangChain, LlamaIndex). Experience with Vector Databases, semantic caching, and AI observability tools. Experience with NiFi, Kafka, AWS Infrastructure, and Kubernetes. Experience with cloud‑based technologies (AWS, Azure). Experience with SQL databases (e.g., Postgres, MySQL), distributed databases, NoSQL databases. Scripting experience, particularly Python, is a huge plus. Prior experience or familiarity with our Big Data Platform is a plus. Understanding of agile software development methodologies and use of standard software development tool suites (e.g., JIRA, Confluence, YouTrack, GitHub). DoD 8140 / 8570 IAT Level II compliance certifications may be required in this position as directed by the customer. Benefits 100% paid employee premium for healthcare, vision, and dental plans. 10% 401(k) benefit. Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays. Education/training allowances. Compensation Anticipated Salary Range: $90,166.00 – $120,000.00. Location & Work Model Hybrid: 1–2 days per week in Columbia, MD, with remote work flexibility as needed. #J-18808-Ljbffr Enlighten