Principal Machine Learning Engineer

At SAP, we keep it simple: you bring your best to us, and we’ll bring out the best in you. We’re builders touching over 20 industries and 80% of global commerce, and we need your unique talents to help shape what’s next. The work is challenging – but it matters. You’ll find a place where you can be yourself, prioritize your wellbeing, and truly belong. We are seeking a highly skilled and driven Principal Machine Learning Engineer to design and deliver intelligent, distributed systems that power large‑scale AI and large language model (LLM) capabilities. In this role, you will shape cutting‑edge infrastructure, mentor world‑class engineers, and bring bold ideas from concept to production – driving meaningful impact across SAP’s global ecosystem. Description As a key member of our fast‑moving team, you will have the unique opportunity to define and execute the vision for AI and LLM‑based systems at scale. We are looking for someone with exceptional programming expertise, deep distributed systems knowledge, and the curiosity and grit to tackle complex, ambiguous challenges. You will work across a diverse technology stack, collaborate closely with engineers and product leaders, and help set the technical direction for AI initiatives. Key Responsibilities Architect, design, and implement production systems in Go, Java and Python (full‑stack experience a plus). Build and optimize backend services, databases, APIs, and LLM infrastructure. Leverage technologies such as Kafka, Postgres, Hana, gRPC and advanced LLM frameworks. Mentor and guide engineers from junior to senior levels, fostering technical excellence. Partner with cross‑functional teams to translate business goals into scalable, high‑impact solutions. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or related field, with strong programming expertise. 10 years of software engineering experience, with a track record of delivering complex systems. Proven ability to work independently and lead initiatives from idea to deployment. Hands‑on experience with AI/ML and/or LLM systems in a production environment. Expertise in distributed systems design and implementation. Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and modern development practices. Strong English communication skills and ability to thrive in a global, multicultural team. Preferred Qualifications Open‑source contributions or significant personal technical projects. Experience integrating AI capabilities into large‑scale enterprise products. Strong problem‑solving skills and an iterative, results‑oriented mindset. Why Join Us Build cutting‑edge AI and LLM systems used across SAP’s global platform. Work in a high‑autonomy, trust‑based environment without unnecessary bureaucracy. Collaborate with some of the best engineers in the industry in a fast‑paced, impact‑driven team. Take ownership of projects that directly influence SAP’s AI strategy and product capabilities. Compensation Range Transparency SAP believes in pay transparency. The targeted annual combined range for this position is 193,400–420,200 USD. The actual offer will be within that range, dependent on the key aspects of each case, including education, skills, experience, scope of the role, and location. AI Usage in the Recruitment Process For information on the responsible use of AI in our recruitment process, please refer to our Guidelines for Ethical Usage of AI in the Recruiting Process. Please note that any violation of these guidelines may result in disqualification from the hiring process. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their age, race, religion, national origin, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, etc.), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, or disability. #J-18808-Ljbffr