Senior Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Engineer

About the role

About The Company

USAA is a leading financial services organization dedicated to serving the military community and their families. Our mission is to empower our members to achieve financial security through highly competitive products, exceptional service, and trusted advice. We are committed to providing innovative solutions tailored to the unique needs of military personnel, veterans, and their families. Embracing core values such as honesty, integrity, loyalty, and service, USAA fosters a culture of respect, trust, and excellence. Our organization prides itself on creating a supportive environment that encourages professional growth and personal development. We also recognize the importance of work-life balance and offer flexible work arrangements, including remote and hybrid options, especially for active-duty military spouses. Join us to be part of a purpose-driven company that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those who serve our country.

About The Role

The Senior Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Engineer at USAA is a pivotal role within our dedicated AI engineering team. This position focuses on developing, implementing, and maintaining advanced AI and ML solutions across various lines of business. The successful candidate will work on cutting-edge projects involving sentiment analysis, agentic AI applications, and other innovative technologies designed to enhance our service delivery and operational efficiency. The role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to high-impact initiatives, including data preprocessing, model training, API development, and building robust data pipelines. Based in either San Antonio, TX, or Plano, TX, this position requires a collaborative and innovative mindset, with a focus on delivering scalable and reliable AI solutions. The role supports USAA’s commitment to leveraging technology to improve member experiences and operational excellence.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess a bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience, with at least six years of experience in machine learning engineering, data engineering, or software development. Extensive programming proficiency in Python, SQL, Java, or similar languages is essential. Candidates should have a strong background in data engineering, with experience in end-to-end AI/ML solution delivery, including building data pipelines, data modeling, and optimizing data for various applications. Knowledge of cloud platforms such as AWS, GCP, or Azure, along with experience in ML Ops principles and automated workflows, is required. Demonstrated leadership skills, including mentoring junior team members, are highly valued. A solid understanding of data science principles, stochastic modeling, and advanced mathematical techniques is necessary. Effective communication skills are critical, enabling the candidate to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences. Experience in highly regulated industries like financial services, insurance, or banking, and familiarity with tools like FastAPI, Snowflake, or OpenShift, will set applicants apart.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with data scientists and business partners to develop and implement machine learning models and solutions aligned with organizational goals.

Provide technical feedback and guidance within the ML and AI community, ensuring best practices and innovative approaches.

Lead the full lifecycle of machine learning engineering projects, including analysis, solution design, data pipeline development, testing, deployment, and application integration.

Configure, manage, and optimize AI/ML infrastructure in cloud and on-premises environments, utilizing platforms such as AWS, GCP, and graph databases.

Work closely with architects to influence and define implementation patterns for complex ML models and AI solutions.

Translate complex model requirements into scalable, reliable technical solutions, creating prototypes and proof-of-concept demonstrations for leadership review.

Mentor junior team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and technical excellence.

Identify and mitigate risks associated with AI/ML projects, ensuring compliance with risk management and regulatory policies.

Benefits

USAA offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the physical, financial, and emotional well-being of our employees. Benefits include competitive medical, dental, and vision plans, a 401(k) retirement savings plan, pension options, life insurance, and parental leave programs. We also provide adoption assistance, paid time off including holidays, and 16 paid volunteer hours annually. Our wellness programs promote healthy lifestyles, and our career development initiatives support professional growth through ongoing education and training. We are committed to creating a positive work environment that values diversity, inclusion, and work-life balance, ensuring our employees feel supported and valued throughout their careers.

Equal Opportunity

USAA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. We believe in fostering a workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute to our mission of serving those who serve our country.