Entry Level Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Waco, TX

Our AI Engineer I is focused on integrating pre-built AI/ML models like LLMs and computer vision APIs into production applications. They help build the system infrastructure that allows models to function reliably and solve real-world business problems The AI Engineering team supports the design, development, testing and deployment of AI-enabled applications, automation workflows and generative AI solutions. This role works closely with senior engineers, data analysts, automation engineers, our Technical Product Owner and business stakeholders to build practical AI solutions using modern software engineering, data and cloud-based AI tools. The ideal candidate has, or is building, a foundation in Python, data concepts, APIs and AI fundamentals with an interest in growing hands-on experience in generative AI, retrieval-augmented generation, Azure AI services, Claude, Bedrock and Snowflake.

Location: this position offers a hybrid work location (onsite at Meridian Idaho campus and local WFH).

Required Education (must meet one of the following):

• Bachelor's Degree in AI/ML, Computer Science, Information Systems, or closely related field of study or equivalent work experience (Two years' relevant work experience is equivalent to one-year college)

• Applicable certification(s) +2 years additional relevant experience

• Associate's Degree in AI/ML, Computer Science, Information Systems, or closely related field of study + 2 years additional relevant experience

Key Skills should include:

• Course work and/or experience with Claude, Bedrock, OpenAI, Snowflake or other related Cloud-native development tools

• Familiarity with Python and common data and machine learning libraries such as Panda, NumPy, scikit-learn or similar tools.

• Basic understanding of machine learning concepts, generative AI, large language models, prompt engineering and model evaluation practices.

• Exposure to retrieval-augmented generation concepts (RAG), including embedding, vector search, document grounding and knowledge retrieval.

• Familiarity with Git version control, agile delivery practices, technical documentation and collaborative development workflows.

• Familiarity with LLM frameworks or SDK's such as LangChain, LangGraph, OpenAI SDKs or similar agent and orchestration frameworks.

• Familiarity with APIs, JSON, SQL, relational databases and integrating data or services across applications.

• Awareness of responsible AI, content safety, prompt injection risks, hallucination mitigation observability and basic security practices for enterprise AI solutions.

• Problem solving skills, attention to detail, curiosity and willingness to learn new AI tools, frameworks and development patterns.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical partners.

• Preference for experience supporting AI solutions and/or other relevant IT experience in regulated or enterprise environments such as finance or healthcare.

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay range is $78,064 to $117,095. The position is eligible for an annual incentive bonus (variable depending on company and employee performance). The pay range for this position takes into account a wide range of factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, relevant experience, skills, seniority, performance, travel requirements, internal equity, business or organizational needs, and alignment with market data. At Blue Cross of Idaho, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top range for the position. Compensation decisions are dependent on factors and circumstances at the time of offer.

We offer a robust package of benefits including paid time off, paid holidays, community service and self-care days, medical/dental/vision/pharmacy insurance, 401(k) matching and non-contributory plan, life insurance, short and long term disability, education reimbursement, employee assistance plan (EAP), adoption assistance program and paid family leave program.

We will adhere to all relevant state and local laws concerning employee leave benefits, in line with our plans and policies.

Reasonable accommodations

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.