Artificial Intelligence Engineer

AKIRA Artificial Intelligence Engineer

In 2002, AKIRA opened the doors to its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago. Since then, the company has extended its reach to 35 stores across the United States, as well as a thriving eCommerce business (shopAKIRA.com.) AKIRA is extremely well-poised for sustained growth as we continue to build a nationally recognized brand. AKIRA’s culture has one very large, distinct difference from other high fashion competitors: Fanatical, Obsessive Attention to the consumer’s needs and desires. The core principle for all employees at AKIRA is to Act and Think Like an Owner, and this belief can be reflected across all areas of the company.

The Position

Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Job Type: Full Time

Location

Remote

(Must be based in Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Massachusetts, New York, Maryland, Georgia, Florida, California, Texas, Virginia, Rhode Island, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Missouri)

Overview:

We’re looking for an Artificial Intelligence Engineer to join our growing retail business and take the lead in building AI-powered automation systems. In this new role, you’ll get to play with the latest AI tech, tools like Make.com, and APIs to make our workflows smoother, cut costs, and boost productivity. It’s a hands-on role where you’ll help shape the future of automation in a fast-moving, exciting industry that’s all about creativity and growth.

Essential Functions:

Automation Development:

• Design and deploy automation workflows across tools like Shopify, NetSuite, Slack, and internal CRMs.
• Use platforms like Make.com, Zapier, or custom-built solutions to integrate systems.

AI Integration:

• Leverage AI technologies (e.g., GPT, ML models) to enhance operational processes, customer service, and inventory management.
• Implement AI-driven tools for dynamic pricing, customer segmentation, and personalized marketing.

API Management:

• Build and maintain integrations between Akira’s tech stack using APIs.
• Troubleshoot and debug API-related issues to ensure smooth operations.

Process Optimization:

• Identify opportunities for automation across business operations, with a focus on high-impact areas (e.g., inventory, marketing, finance).
• Evaluate existing workflows and design streamlined, automated alternatives.

Collaboration:

• Work closely with department heads to understand needs and prioritize automation projects.
• Train and mentor team members to adopt and leverage new automation tools.

Monitoring and Reporting:

• Monitor the performance of deployed systems and ensure they meet business goals.
• Provide regular reports on the impact of automation efforts, including cost savings and efficiency gains.

Qualifications:

Experience & Education:

• 3 years of experience as an AI Engineer or similar role.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, AI, Data Science, or a related technical discipline preferred but not required.
• Experience with programming languages is a plus.

Technical Expertise:

• Proficiency in automation tools like Make.com, Zapier, or similar platforms.
• Understanding on how to create a hierarchy of agents to perform complex interactive automations.
• Hands-on experience connecting APIs and working with JSON, REST, and webhooks.
• Familiarity with AI tools and frameworks (e.g., ChatGPT, Claude, or custom ML models).
• Understanding of database systems (SQL or NoSQL) and data manipulation.
• Ability to break down complex workflows and design effective automation solutions.
• Strong debugging and troubleshooting skills.

Communication and Collaboration:

• Strong communication skills for effectively working with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to explain technical solutions in clear, non-technical terms for diverse stakeholders.
• A team player who builds trust and cultivates positive relationships to drive collaboration.

The ideal candidate has/is:

• A basic understanding of retail, e-commerce, or other fast-paced industries.
• Hands-on experience with platforms such as Shopify, NetSuite, and Slack.
• Resilient, able to approach challenges with a positive mindset and turn setbacks into opportunities for growth.
• A creative problem-solver who delivers innovative solutions and consistently goes the extra mile to add value.
• A passion for keeping up with the latest AI trends and skills.

Diversity & Inclusion:

At AKIRA we believe that treating everyone in a first-class manner is essential to fostering an inclusive environment that reflects our values and our community. This is deeply rooted in our company's principles, culture, and fashion. We continuously strive to cultivate a company where employees feel a sense of belonging and contribute to a culture that values differences, ideas, and experiences. Our unique workforce is directly linked to our success and makes us stronger collectively.

Benefits and Perks:

AKIRA offers competitive benefits for full time employees, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Pet, Life, LTD, FSA/HSA/Dependent Care FSA, Flex Transit (CTA), 401(k), and employee discount. We are committed to encouraging internal development and providing significant career enrichment opportunities. Most importantly, what has propelled AKIRA’s growth and success over the years has been the dynamic culture within the company - if you’re filled with passion, have a strong desire to get things done, and if you want to go to a place where you know your work matters and where you can implement your ideas and decisions, then AKIRA just might be the place for you.