AI Lead Developer

Join Colchester Institute – Where Your Career Makes a Difference

At Colchester Institute, we believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities. As one of the leading providers of education and training in the region, we are proud to offer a dynamic, supportive, and forward-thinking working environment.

Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting out, working with us means being part of a team that values innovation, inclusivity, and excellence. We are committed to nurturing talent and creating opportunities for continuous professional growth and development.

We are especially passionate about driving diversity and inspiring individuals from all backgrounds to thrive in careers across a wide range of sectors. This position is located within our Digital Solutions team in the IT & Digital Services department.

By joining our team, you'll help shape the future workforce and make a lasting impact on the lives of learners.

Job Title: AI Lead Developer

As AI Lead Developer, you'll have the opportunity to drive innovation through the design, development, and deployment of advanced AI applications that enhance efficiency, improve learner outcomes, and support evidence-based decision making. You'll play a pivotal role in helping the Digital Solutions team deliver transformative, ethical, and future-focused AI-driven solutions across the organisation.

About the Role:

• Design, build, and deploy scalable AI applications using Azure AI technologies (AI Foundry, Cognitive Services, OpenAI).
• Develop and manage AI-ready databases including Cosmos DB and SQL Server.
• Deliver automation and workflow optimisation solutions to reduce workload and streamline processes.
• Ensure compliance with data protection, cybersecurity, and ethical AI standards in all developments.
• Collaborate with academic and business colleagues to integrate AI into learning and operational systems (e.g. LMS, CRM, VLEs).
• Act as an AI subject matter expert, mentoring colleagues and promoting best practice in AI adoption.

If you’re a skilled AI developer with a passion for innovation and ethical technology, and a commitment to education, we want YOU on our team!

Essential Qualifications:

• Educated to degree level (or equivalent) in IT technologies, or significant relevant experience.

Essential Experience:

• Proven experience designing and deploying AI applications using Azure AI tools.
• Hands-on experience with databases such as Cosmos DB and SQL Server.
• Knowledge of Azure cloud services and deployment pipelines (DevOps/MLOps).
• Strong coding skills in Python and experience with REST APIs.
• Experience ensuring compliance with data protection, cybersecurity, and ethical AI standards

Desirable Qualifications:

• Microsoft Azure AI Engineer Associate or equivalent certification.

Desirable Experience:

• Process automation and workflow optimisation using AI/ML.
• Experience embedding AI solutions in business or learning systems (e.g. LMS, CRM, HR, VLE).
• Familiarity with model monitoring, explainability, and fairness testing.
• Experience of working in education or developing AI solutions for teaching/learning environments.
• Knowledge of systems such as Microsoft Teams, Power BI, Salesforce CRM, SharePoint Online, ProMonitor, Tribal EBS, Moodle, or Google Classrooms.

All applications will be assessed against the stated essential requirements, so please ensure your CV clearly demonstrates how you meet them.

Additional Information

Colchester Institute is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

We strive to be an Equal Opportunities employer. All applicants who are offered employment will be subject to a Criminal Records check from the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Please visit our website www.colchester.ac.uk to obtain further details about the College.