At a Glance
- Tasks: Build AI-powered software for local non-profits and empower them to manage it independently.
- Company: Community Forge, collaborating with Carnegie Mellon University on impactful projects.
- Benefits: Hands-on experience, professional growth, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Opportunity to learn DSPy and work in a supportive, collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Combine tech skills with community impact, transforming needs into practical solutions.
- Qualifications: Understanding of non-profits, hands-on with AI tools, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Community Forge is hiring an AI Systems Lead to build practical, AI-powered software for local non-profits – and to hand it off so they can run it themselves. The heart of this job is understanding what Pittsburgh’s non-profits and community organizations actually need, then turning those needs into working tools. That means it’s as much about people as it is about technology: you’ll spend real time with non-profit staff, earn their trust, and translate fuzzy, real-world problems into something you can build. You’ll also build it – using AI systems tools like DSPy to help community organizations stand up their own bespoke software. Modern AI coding tools have changed what that takes: the job is less about writing every line yourself and more about wielding those tools well, making sound technical judgment calls, and being resourceful enough to get unstuck when something breaks. You don’t need to be a career software engineer, but you do need to be genuinely hands-on and comfortable shipping real software.
This is a collaborative project with Carnegie Mellon University’s School of Computer Science, including researchers from the Human-Computer Interaction Institute (HCII), the Computer Science Department (CSD), and the Software and Societal Systems Department (S3D).
What You’ll Do
- Understand the community. Work closely with Pittsburgh non-profits and community organizations to understand how they operate and what they actually need – and build the relationships that make that possible.
- Translate needs into tools. Map those requirements onto AI systems tools like DSPy, scoping practical solutions that fit how each organization really works.
- Build and deliver 5 pilot projects. Lead the full lifecycle of rapid, AI-assisted software development – from concept to delivery – serving as both a hands-on builder and an educator.
- Set non-profits up to succeed. Equip their staff with the knowledge and tools to manage and maintain their custom software long after you’ve handed it off.
Who You Are
- You get non-profits. You understand how community organizations operate, and you’re genuinely good at building and maintaining trust with the people who run them.
- You’re a translator. You can sit down with non-technical staff, listen well, and turn vague needs into concrete requirements.
- You’re hands-on with modern tools. You’re comfortable using AI systems tools like DSPy to build real software, you make sound technical decisions, and you can debug and get yourself unstuck when something breaks.
- You don’t need decades of engineering experience – you need to be resourceful, capable, and able to ship. (Don’t know DSPy yet? That’s fine – you’ll learn it here.)
- You’re driven by impact. You want your work to make a tangible difference for organizations serving the public.
AI Systems Lead, Community Technology (Builder + Translator) employer: Code & Supply Co.
Community Forge is an exceptional employer, dedicated to empowering local non-profits in Pittsburgh through innovative AI solutions. Our collaborative work culture fosters meaningful relationships with community organizations, ensuring that employees not only contribute to impactful projects but also grow professionally by learning cutting-edge technologies like DSPy. With a focus on hands-on experience and real-world problem-solving, we provide a unique opportunity for those passionate about making a difference in their community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land AI Systems Lead, Community Technology (Builder + Translator)
✨Get Involved Locally
Dive into local volunteer opportunities or social initiatives. This not only beefs up your CV but also connects you with like-minded folks in nonprofits. Plus, it shows your passion for social impact, which is key for getting noticed by Code & Supply Co..
✨Tap into Professional Networks
Join networks like the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) or local charities to meet professionals in the sector. Attend events and workshops to build relationships and learn about potential openings at organisations like Code & Supply Co..
✨Showcase Your Commitment
When prepping for interviews, be ready to speak about your personal connection to social issues. Dive into specific examples of how you’ve contributed to community projects – this will resonate with the mission-driven vibe at Code & Supply Co..
✨Utilise Online Platforms
We’re all about making connections, so use platforms like Idealist and CharityJob to hunt for full-time roles. And of course, you should keep an eye on our website for exciting opportunities at Code & Supply Co.. Apply directly through us to stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace AI Systems Lead, Community Technology (Builder + Translator)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Cause:In the nonprofit sector, it's super important to demonstrate genuine passion for the mission of Code & Supply Co.. Use your cover letter to showcase any personal experiences or volunteer work that connects you to their social impact initiatives. This emotional connection can really help your application stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:When crafting your CV, be sure to include any relevant projects or roles that showcase your skills in social impact. Whether it's community organising, fundraising, or advocacy, highlight what you've done and the difference it's made. Don’t just list tasks; quantify your achievements and the outcomes of your efforts.
Tailor Your Documents to the Role:For a full-time role like AI Systems Lead, Community Technology (Builder + Translator), ensure your CV and cover letter specifically address the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Use their language to describe your skills and experience, making it easy for the hiring team to see how you fit into their vision.
Emphasise Teamwork and Collaboration:Nonprofits thrive on teamwork, so make sure to emphasise your collaborative experiences. Whether you've worked in a team setting, partnered with community organisations, or facilitated group projects, highlight these experiences in your application. Show them you understand the importance of working alongside diverse individuals to achieve shared goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Code & Supply Co.
✨Show Your Passion for Social Change
When we’re prepping for interviews in the nonprofit space, it's vital to demonstrate our genuine passion for social impact. Be ready to discuss not just your skills and experiences but also why you care about the mission of Code & Supply Co.. Sharing personal stories or insights can really make us stand out.
✨Highlight Project Experience
We should focus on specific projects we've worked on that align with the goals of social impact. Whether that’s a community initiative, volunteering, or a class project, having solid examples that showcase our role and the outcomes will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Familiarity with Relevant Tools and Practices
Let’s brush up on tools and methodologies commonly used in the nonprofit sector, like project management software or outcome measurement frameworks. Being able to speak fluently about these will show that we’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that evaluate our problem-solving skills in real-world social issues. Think about how we’d handle challenges in the nonprofit environment and prepare stories that demonstrate our critical thinking and adaptability. Role-playing with a friend could help us feel more confident!
