[Remote] Lead AI / ML Engineer

Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. Optum is committed to helping people live healthier lives and improving the health system. The Lead AI / ML Engineer will design and implement machine learning models, integrate AI into enterprise applications, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance AI-driven intelligence across various use cases.ResponsibilitiesDesigning and implementing ML modelsCreating custom embeddingsBuilding RAG pipelinesImplementing vector databasesDeveloping agentic workflows with LangChainIntegrating AI into enterprise applications for Claims Payment Integrity (PI)The role partners closely with Data Scientists, Product Teams, and Platform Teams to deploy AI-driven intelligence across PI use casesContribute to experimentation with novel ML and Generative AI architecturesCreate and maintain embedding models (domain-specific embeddings, document/text embeddings)Support Retrieval‑Augmented Generation (RAG) solutions, including semantic search, vector databases, and LLM integrationHelp design and implement AI‑powered enterprise applicationsAnalyze large datasets to identify trends, patterns, and actionable insightsPartner with AI/ML Engineers and Leads to enhance existing models and improve model accuracy and performanceOptimize AI pipelines for scalability, performance, reliability, and cost efficiencyIntegrate AI/ML solutions into enterprise systems by partnering closely with data engineering, product, and platform teamsCollaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders, communicating complex technical concepts clearlyContribute to skill development for engineers and interns in AI/LLM techniquesComply with company policies, procedures, and directivesSkillsBachelor's/Master's in CS, Engineering, Mathematics/Statistics, or related5+ years of experience as a Data Scientist5+ years of relevant experience, including strong ML end to end model development (data prep → feature creation → training → evaluation)5+ years of experience with Python, Scala, SQL3+ years of Databricks, Spark2+ years of experience with LLM & GenAI SkillsCreating custom embedding modelsBuilding RAG pipelinesVector DBs & semantic searchUsing LangChain for agentic workflows (tools, agents, memory)Experience with OpenAI/Azure OpenAI APIsExperience with Azure cloud for compute, security, and resource managementCI/CD familiarity using Git, GitHub Actions/Jenkins, TerraformExcellent communication and partnership skillsExperience with Actuarial, Risk and Forecasting ModelsExperience with healthcare claims dataExperience with Azure, Databricks, Snowflake, LLMs and/or similar toolsDemonstrated problem-solving, and analytical thinking skillsDemonstrated organizational skills with ability to be flexible and work with ambiguityBenefitsA comprehensive benefits packageIncentive and recognition programsEquity stock purchase401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements)Company OverviewOptum provides primary care and optical care services. It was founded in 1985, and is headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA, with a workforce of 10001+ employees. Its website is https://nm.optum.com.Company H1B SponsorshipOptum has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships, with 73 in 2026, 648 in 2025, 559 in 2024, 620 in 2023, 851 in 2022, 593 in 2021, 438 in 2020. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role.