Intern, AI Engineer (London, GB)

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (the EBRD or the Bank) is undertaking an Operational Effectiveness and Efficiency (OE&E) programme to become a leaner and more effective organisation, one of the three strategic priorities for the Bank, alongside strengthening its transition impact in its countries of operations and securing its financial stability. A programme team made up of Bank employees and some external advisors is working across a range of projects with a focus on simplifying processes, freeing up capacity, bringing IT technology and practices up to date, and improving the work environment. The outcome of the programme should have a measurable impact on the banks transition and financial priorities.

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is establishing a new AI/ML capability within its IT department to drive innovation and deliver intelligent AI solutions. As part of this initiative, we are looking for an enthusiastic Azure AI/ML Engineer Intern to join our team in Sofia. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in designing, developing, and deploying AI/ML applications on the Azure platform. You will contribute to building intelligent AI applications while gaining valuable insights into the latest technologies and industry best practices.

As an intern, you will assist in designing, developing, and implementing AI and ML applications, support the deployment, integration, testing, and securing of Azure AI Services, contribute to the development of Agile-based AI/ML solutions using Python and other tools. You will learn and assist in integrating commercial off-the-shelf software products with in-house solutions under the guidance of the Banks solution architecture team. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to conceptualise AI projects that drive business innovation and provide value in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.

The AI/ML IT application development uses Agile software delivery on Azure cloud technologies. The development uses a platform built using Python technologies together with commercially available off the shelf software products with the Banks solution architecture team guidance. You will have a strong interest in AI/ML and cloud-based solutions, basic knowledge of Azure AI Services or cloud platforms (prior experience is a bonus but not essential). You are ambitious, have a drive to self start, and eagerness to learn, collaborate, and contribute to innovative projects.

Accountabilities & Responsibilities

• To work within a software development team to develop, deliver and support the DevOps pipeline for the development team to increase efficiency of their delivery of the Bank application systems to meet business requirements using a range of agile techniques and knowledge of software development and software products underpinned with knowledge of IT operations, support and a regulated finance industry sector such as banking or insurance. This is a hands on development role so you will be learning a lot on the job.
• Build, develop and deploy AI powered applications using Python and related frameworks.
• Utilise Python and other relevant programming languages to build intelligent applications on the Azure platform.
• Design and develop Azure AI Services proficiently; Develop solutions using Azure AI Prompt Flow; Setup and develop data ingestion pipelines and components; design and develop efficient ingestion methodologies.
• Developing search related components using Azure AI Search (Vector Store).
• Developing and deploying AI/ML models on Azure technologies for business teams.
• Work closely with MLOps engineers to Integrate MLOps practices into the existing development lifecycle.
• Collaborate with AI Engineers, MLOps Engineers, Data Scientists and Business stakeholders to understand deployment, networking and security requirements in helping design effective AI solutions for the projects.
• Provide technical expertise in designing, developing and implementing the AI powered applications.
• Develop unit tests, automated regression packs and help setup model evaluation test packs.
• Build and maintain scalable, high-performance AI apps on Azure platform.
• Stay current with industry trends and best practices in AI technology and recommend innovative solutions to enhance business operations.
• Conduct thorough testing and validation of AI models to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Document and communicate AI solutions and recommendations to technical and non-technical stakeholders clearly and effectively.
• Develop and implement automated testing frameworks for machine learning models to ensure their ongoing accuracy and reliability.
• Document AI development processes and procedures for efficient knowledge transfer and maintainability.

Knowledge, Skills, Experience & Qualifications

• Internships should have completed either an undergraduate or masters degree in a relative field within the last 3 years.
• Essential:
• 1+ years of experience (preferred but not essential) in software development with a strong proficiency in Python.
• Experience with cloud platforms (preferred but not essential).
• A basic understanding of AI and ML concepts is a plus, but not required. We are open to enthusiastic individuals eager to learn and grow in this space.
• Familiarity with APIs and web services integration.
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git) and familiarity with code management practices.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• A passion for innovation and a continuous learning mindset.
• Solid troubleshooting skills.
• Experience of at least one package/dependency management system (e.g. Pip/Conda).
• Desirable:
• Adequate understanding of machine learning concepts and the challenges associated with model deployment and management.
• Knowledge of AI services such as OpenAI.
• Basic understanding of machine learning concepts.
• Expert level of Python programming language.

What is it like to work at the EBRD?

Our agile and innovative approach is what makes life at the EBRD a unique experience! You will be part of a pioneering and diverse international organisation, and use your talents to make a real difference to people's lives and help shape the future of the regions we invest in.

At EBRD, our Values Inclusiveness, Innovation, Trust, and Responsibility are at the heart of how we work. We bring these to life through our Workplace Behaviours: listening well and speaking up, collaborating smartly, acting decisively with full commitment, and simplifying to amplify our impact. These principles shape our culture and define our success. We seek individuals who not only share these values but are also committed to embedding them in their daily work, fostering a positive and high-performing environment.

The EBRD environment provides you with:

• Varied, stimulating and engaging work that gives you an opportunity to interact with a wide range of experts in the financial, political, public and private sectors across the regions we invest in.
• A working culture that embraces inclusion and celebrates diversity. Our workforce reflects a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, bringing fresh ideas, energy, and innovation and enhancing our ability to serve our clients, shareholders, and counterparties effectively.
• A hybrid workplace that offers flexibility to teams and individuals; that is based on trust, flexibility and connectedness.
• An environment that places sustainability, equality and digital transformation at the heart of what we do.
• A workplace that prioritises employee wellbeing and provides a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits.

Diversity is one of the Banks core values which are at the heart of everything it does. As such, the EBRD seeks to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities and works in an inclusive environment. The EBRD encourages all qualified candidates who are nationals of the EBRD member countries to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious and cultural background, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, socio-economic background or disability.

Please note, that due to the high volume of applications received, we regret to inform you that we are unable to provide detailed feedback to candidates who have not been shortlisted (for further consideration).