University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is hiring a Lead Conversational AI Developer

The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is seeking a Lead Conversational AI Developer to architect and build the next generation of conversational interfaces. You will lead the full lifecycle development of scalable chatbots and virtual assistants, collaborating with cross-functional teams to design and implement intelligent solutions.

What You'll Do

• Drive the full lifecycle development—from design to deployment—of scalable chatbots and virtual assistants utilizing Microsoft Bot Framework, Kore.ai, or similar CAI technologies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (product managers, designers, UX/UI specialists) to gather requirements, design conversational flows, and implement user stories.
• Integrate Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Natural Language Understanding (NLU) techniques to enable chatbots to understand user intent and respond accordingly.
• Leverage Generative AI services to enhance chatbot responses with creativity and personalization.
• Develop chatbots for deployment across multiple channels (web, mobile apps, messaging platforms) ensuring a seamless user experience.
• Conduct thorough testing and debugging to ensure high performance and accuracy of conversational AI solutions.
• Monitor and analyze user interactions and chatbot performance to identify areas for improvement and optimization.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in Conversational AI technologies and best practices.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor’s Degree.
• 3+ years of experience in software development, preferably with a focus on conversational AI or chatbots.
• Deep expertise in Azure Bot Framework v4, specifically utilizing Adaptive Dialogs, Waterfall Dialogs, and middleware customization.
• Strong backend development skills with advanced proficiency in C#, .NET, JavaScript, CSS, HTML for custom bot logic.
• Hands-on experience with Azure Integration Services, using Azure Functions and Logic Apps to orchestrate workflows between the bot and external systems.
• Proven experience with Salesforce API integrations (REST/SOAP), specifically for managing Live Agent handoffs, Knowledge base retrieval, and Case creation.
• Experience configuring Azure Cosmos DB for storing conversation state, user data, and telemetry logs.
• Experience implementing Hybrid AI strategies, bridging classical NLU services (Azure CLU) with Generative AI models (Azure OpenAI/GPT) for fall-back handling or content generation.
• Middleware familiarity, with exposure to MuleSoft or similar ESB platforms for enterprise-grade data exchange.
• Data-driven optimization skills, utilizing Power BI to analyze conversation logs, identify drop-off points, and drive NLU accuracy improvements.
• SDLC leadership experience, including defining CI/CD pipelines for bot deployment across multiple environments (Dev/Test/Prod).
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Passion for innovation and a strong desire to push the boundaries of Conversational AI technology.

Technical Stack

• Microsoft Bot Framework, Kore.ai, Azure Bot Framework v4
• C#, .NET, JavaScript, CSS, HTML
• Azure Integration Services, Azure Functions, Logic Apps
• Salesforce API (REST/SOAP), Azure Cosmos DB
• Azure CLU, Azure OpenAI/GPT, MuleSoft, Power BI

Team & Environment

You will be joining the Platform Engineering team, where you will play a lead role in shaping the Conversational AI strategy.

Benefits & Compensation

• Salary range: $130,000.00 - $145,000.00
• 22 days of paid vacation
• 15 days of sick leave
• 3 personal days
• 16 paid holidays (17 during general election years)
• Comprehensive health coverage (medical with vision, dental, prescription) for individuals and families
• Term Life Insurance
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
• Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care expenses
• Retirement Plans: Optional Retirement Program (ORP) or Maryland State Retirement and Pension System (MSRPS)
• Supplemental Retirement Plans: 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), and Roth options
• Tuition Remission for staff and eligible dependents

Work Mode

This role follows a hybrid work model and is based in our Adelphi, MD location.

The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination. UMGC is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, ancestry, political affiliation or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.