Senior Python Developer, GenAI, Innovation Labs - VP

Job Summary

Citi Innovation Labs is a global network of innovation centers focused on delivering cutting edge solutions to all of Citi’s lines of business.

Our mission is to create a competitive advantage for our clients, manifested as change in the way they operate, by providing innovative technological solutions with strong client engagement, from idea to production, and by leveraging the entrepreneurial spirit and technological excellence fostered in the Innovation Labs.

Our Labs Network is a global organization that spans across New York, London, Tel Aviv, and various other locations globally. We focus on delivering innovative products using cutting-edge technologies in highly complex architectures and with the highest delivery standards. The Innovation Labs team performs research and implementation in many advanced domains spanning across AI, Machine learning, NLP, Analytics, and many more.

We're searching for a highly skilled and experienced senior engineer and Python expert to lead the design and development of the various AI-related technologies as part of the Citi Innovation Labs. The ideal candidate has an excellent track record in high-scale engineering products and specifically AI solutions. In this role, you'll be a key player in driving innovative AI projects throughout the bank.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and maintenance of highly complex Python-based GenAI platforms, applications, services, and supporting infrastructure to ensure seamless operation, scalability, and integration of AI capabilities across various Citi business units.
• Engage with data science, technical, and business stakeholders to define and design overall architecture for key use-cases, specifically focusing on Python-based solutions for our lines of business.
• Drive the deployment of new GenAI products and process improvements, working with internal and external partners to design, validate, and deliver solutions with commercial benefit for Citi, with a strong emphasis on robust Python implementations.
• Resolve high-impact technical and business problems, leading projects through in-depth evaluation of complex GenAI business processes, system architecture, and industry standards, providing innovative Python-driven solutions.
• Provide expert guidance and advanced knowledge in Python-based programming, ensuring platform design adheres to architectural blueprints and best practices for generative models.
• Develop and enforce robust Python coding standards, testing methodologies, debugging practices, and implementation strategies for enterprise-grade solutions, leveraging an advanced understanding of system flow.
• Manage multiple concurrent initiatives and projects of varying sizes and complexity, engaging with external vendors and startups for joint initiatives and exploration of new directions, particularly those involving Python-based technologies.
• Cultivate a comprehensive understanding of how business, architecture, and infrastructure integrate within the GenAI ecosystem at Citi to achieve strategic goals.
• Serve as an advisor and coach to mid-level developers and analysts specializing in Python and GenAI technologies, fostering skill development and effective work allocation.
• Collaborate with Citi's Risk and Control teams to ensure best practices are followed regarding governance, risk management, standardization, and tooling for Python-based GenAI systems.

Skills & Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in the software industry, with a strong emphasis on building enterprise software.
• 6+ years of relevant experience in developing and implementing scalable and robuest Python-based platforms for AI-driven applications and systems using salient Python libraries (e.g., FastAPI, Flask, Django, Pandas, NumPy, Prefect, Scikit-learn, Hugging Face).
• 5+ years of experience delivering complex Python-based solutions and services (e.g., backend services, APIs) into production.
• Demonstrated experience in managing and implementing successful projects of varying sizes and complexities.
• Proven understanding of Generative AI systems, AIOps, and application monitoring/evaluation.
• Experience with cloud architectures, with specific experience in public cloud offerings.
• Strong passion and proven hands-on experience integrating with AI/ML technologies, particularly using Python.
• Experience with software development agents, agile development, CI/CD pipelines, software testing, and code reviews.
• Ability to quickly learn new technologies, adjust priorities, influence highly skilled engineering teams, and guide technology decisions.
• Demonstrated leadership and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and documentation skills, with the ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both written and verbal.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving skills, and a strategic mindset.
• Experience in the financial industry is a significant advantage.

Education

• Bachelor's degree/University degree or equivalent experience is required.
• Master's degree preferred.