Associate Systems Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for a passionate and driven Associate Systems Engineer to join our AI development team. In this role, you will assist in the design, development, and deployment of intelligent applications, including large language model (LLM)-powered chatbots and internal tools. You will work closely with senior engineers and technical program managers to build and evaluate features for initiatives like our "Store Assist AI" and logistics tracking systems.
This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career engineer who is eager to learn, build enterprise-grade AI applications, and make a tangible impact in the retail technology space.
Responsibilities
AI & Agent Development: Assist in the development, configuration, and integration of AI-powered conversational agents and specialized sub-agents (e.g., store assistance, shipment tracking).
Prompt Engineering & RAG: Help implement and tune Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) pipelines. Assist in evaluating model performance using internal benchmarks (e.g., EnterpriseRAG).
Testing & QA: Support the QA process for AI agents, analyzing chat sessions and application logs to identify areas for improvement, reduce hallucinations, and enhance user experience.
Code Implementation & Tooling: Write clean, maintainable code (primarily in Python). Utilize modern developer tools (VS Code, Git, CLI tools) and AI coding assistants to optimize development workflows.
Collaboration: Participate in sprint planning, code reviews, and technical discussions. Work with cross-functional teams to integrate AI models into existing AutoZone UIs and backend systems.
Continuous Learning: Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in LLMs, AI frameworks, and best practices for building self-improving agents.
Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or a related technical field (or equivalent practical experience).
Programming Skills: Proficiency in Python and familiarity with standard data science/ML libraries (e.g., Pandas, NumPy, LangChain, or similar LLM frameworks).
AI/ML Knowledge: Solid fundamental understanding of machine learning concepts, natural language processing (NLP), and how Large Language Models (LLMs) operate.
Development Tools: Experience with version control (Git) and modern IDEs (VS Code). Familiarity with command-line interfaces (CLI).
Analytical Skills: Ability to read and interpret technical documentation, research papers, and application logs to troubleshoot and optimize systems.
Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to explain technical concepts clearly to team members.
Nice-to-Haves (Bonus)
Hands-on experience or academic projects involving Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG).
Experience interacting with APIs from major AI platform providers (e.g., OpenAI, Anthropic/Claude, Google Gemini).
Familiarity with front-end integration or modifying UI components (e.g., integrating chat interfaces or document viewers).
About Us
Since opening our first store in 1979, AutoZone has grown into a leading retailer and distributor of automotive parts and accessories across the Americas. Our customer-first mindset and commitment to Going the Extra Mile define who we are, for both our customers and AutoZoners. Working at AutoZone means being part of a team that values dedication, teamwork, and growth. Whether you're helping customers or building your career, we provide tools and support to help you succeed and drive your future.
Benefits at AutoZone
AutoZone offers thoughtful benefits programs with one-on-one benefits guidance designed to improve AutoZoners' physical, mental and financial well-being.
All AutoZoners (Full-Time and Part-Time):

• Competitive pay
• Unrivaled company culture
• Medical, dental and vision plans
• Exclusive discounts and perks, including an AutoZone in-store discount
• 401(k) with company match and Stock Purchase Plan
• AutoZoners Living Well Program for free mental health support
• Opportunities for career growth

Additional Benefits for Full-Time AutoZoners:

• Paid time off
• Life, and short- and long-term disability insurance options
• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts with wellness rewards
• Tuition reimbursement

Minimum age requirements may apply. Eligibility and waiting period requirements may apply; benefits for AutoZoners in Puerto Rico, Hawaii, or the U.S. Virgin Islands may differ. Learn more about all that AutoZone has to offer at Careers.AutoZone.com.
We proudly support Veterans, Active-duty Service Members, Reservists, National Guard and Military Families. Your experience is highly valued, and we encourage you to apply to join our team.
Online Application:
An online application is required. Click the Apply button to complete your application. For step-by-step instructions on how to apply visit careers.autozone.com/candidateresources.
AutoZone, and its subsidiary, ALLDATA are equal opportunity employers. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any other legally protected categories.