SL--R - AI Software Engineer

Are you experienced in developing software applications and interested in building practical, AI-enabled tools that support learning, teaching, student experience and professional-services delivery? Do you have experience integrating large language models into applications using APIs? If so, we would welcome an application from you.

The AI@Kent team within the Student Life Directorate is seeking an AI Software Engineer to develop and implement practical AI-enabled tools for students, academic staff and professional-services teams.

Working under the direction of the Head of AI, and in collaboration with colleagues across the University, the postholder will contribute to the design, build and refinement of AI applications that address clearly defined user needs. A key example of this work is the development of AI chatbots and assistants that provide safe, accurate and University-approved responses to common student and staff queries.

• Developing, testing and maintaining AI-enabled applications that support learning, teaching, student experience and professional-services delivery.
• Building and supporting AI chatbots and assistants using approved large language model (LLM) APIs, ensuring outputs are accurate, accessible and aligned with University guidance and content.
• Working with academic and professional-services colleagues to understand requirements, contribute to solution design, and implement agreed functionality.
• Developing backend services, APIs or scripts that integrate AI tools with University systems and content repositories, following agreed integration patterns.

• A degree or equivalent professional experience in Software Engineering, Computer Science or a related technical field.
• Practical experience developing software applications using at least one modern backend language (e.g. Python, C#, or similar).
• Experience integrating large language models into applications using APIs, including prompt design, request/response handling and basic error management.
• Experience contributing to user-facing tools or services, with awareness of usability and accessibility considerations.

• Hybrid working options allowing a flexible blend of office and home working (to be agreed in line with business needs)
• 43 days’ leave per year (personal leave, bank holidays and additional days allocated for the Christmas period, pro rata for part‑time staff)
• Excellent pension scheme with generous employer contributions
• Corporate employee‑funded healthcare plan, in partnership with Benenden Health

As a member of our team, you can expect a friendly, open and collaborative working environment and support in your development and wellbeing. You'll enjoy a range of great staff benefits including:

We are ambitious for our people, our communities and the region we serve – join us in making the world a better place. Visit our website for more on who we are:

Please see the links below to view the full job description and to apply for this post. For further information regarding the application process, please contact  quoting reference number SL-033-26.

* Occasionally we may need to close a vacancy before the published deadline due to a high number of applications being received, therefore we strongly advise you to submit your application as soon as possible. (All vacancies will be open for at least one week.)

PLEASE NOTE:

We prioritise applications from current University of Kent redeployees. We will let you know if this post is to be filled by a redeployee as, in this instance, your application will unfortunately not be taken forward.

We know applicants may use AI tools to help prepare job applications. For guidance on how to use AI responsibly and effectively, see:
Using AI in your job application

Applications must be made via the University’s online application system; CVs or details sent directly to the department or via email cannot be considered.

The University of Kent values diversity and equality at all levels.