LLM & GenAI Research Engineer job in Chicago, IL

Are you passionate about advancing the frontiers of artificial intelligence and natural language processing? We are seeking a skilled LLM & GenAI Research Engineer to join our innovative team in Chicago, IL. This role offers a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge large language models and generative AI technologies that are transforming industries worldwide. If you thrive in a collaborative research environment and are driven by solving complex AI challenges, this position is perfect for you.

Drive Innovation in Large Language Models and Generative AI

A leading AI-focused company in Chicago is looking for an LLM & GenAI Research Engineer to spearhead the development and optimization of next-generation language models. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in machine learning, natural language processing, and scalable AI systems. If you are excited by the challenge of pushing the boundaries of generative AI and delivering impactful solutions, join us to shape the future of intelligent technologies.

Key Responsibilities of the LLM & GenAI Research Engineer

Research & Development: Design, develop, and optimize large language models (LLMs) and generative AI systems to advance state-of-the-art natural language processing capabilities. Conduct experiments, analyze model performance, and iterate to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and scalability.

Algorithm Innovation: Develop novel machine learning algorithms and architectures tailored to generative AI applications. Stay updated on the latest AI research and integrate cutting-edge techniques to improve model robustness and creativity.

Data Engineering & Management: Collaborate with data scientists and engineers to curate, preprocess, and manage large-scale datasets essential for training LLMs. Ensure data quality, diversity, and ethical sourcing standards are met.

Model Training & Deployment: Lead the end-to-end lifecycle of AI models from prototyping and training on distributed systems to deployment in production environments. Optimize model inference speed and resource usage for scalable applications.

Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with product managers, software engineers, and UX teams to align research objectives with business goals and user needs. Translate research breakthroughs into practical AI-powered features.

Performance Monitoring & Evaluation: Implement robust evaluation metrics and testing protocols to monitor model outputs, identify biases, and ensure alignment with ethical AI standards. Continuously refine models based on feedback and real-world usage data.

Documentation & Knowledge Sharing: Maintain comprehensive technical documentation, publish research findings, and present insights internally and at industry conferences. Contribute to a culture of continuous learning and innovation.

Innovation Leadership: Identify emerging trends in AI and natural language processing, propose new research directions, and contribute to the company’s long-term AI strategy.

What the Client is Looking for in You

The client seeks a highly skilled and innovative LLM & GenAI Research Engineer who is passionate about pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence and natural language processing. You should be a forward-thinking researcher with a strong technical foundation and a collaborative mindset, ready to contribute to groundbreaking AI solutions that impact real-world applications.

Proven Expertise in Large Language Models and Generative AI

The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience designing, training, and fine-tuning large-scale language models and generative AI architectures. You should be proficient with state-of-the-art machine learning frameworks and possess a deep understanding of NLP concepts such as transformers, attention mechanisms, and unsupervised learning. Prior work on LLMs or related generative models is highly valued.

Strong Research and Analytical Skills

You must be a strategic thinker with the ability to translate complex AI challenges into actionable research projects. The client values individuals who can rigorously analyze model behavior, identify bottlenecks, and innovate solutions that improve model efficiency, scalability, and ethical standards. Experience publishing or contributing to AI research is a plus.

Hands-On Experience with Model Deployment and Engineering

Beyond research, you should be adept at bridging the gap between experimentation and production. Experience with distributed training, cloud platforms, model optimization for inference, and deploying AI systems at scale is critical. The client seeks engineers who can collaborate effectively with software teams to integrate AI models into products.

Collaborative and Cross-Functional Communicator

The role demands close collaboration with product managers, engineers, and data teams. You should be able to clearly communicate complex technical concepts to diverse stakeholders, translate research findings into business value, and thrive in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary environment.

Commitment to Ethical AI and Responsible Innovation

The client prioritizes responsible AI development and expects you to incorporate fairness, transparency, and bias mitigation into your research and model design. A commitment to continuous learning about AI ethics and regulatory considerations is essential.

Passion for Driving Impactful AI Innovation

Above all, you should be driven by curiosity and a passion for advancing AI capabilities. The client seeks a candidate who is proactive, creative, and motivated to contribute to next-generation generative AI products that shape the future of technology.

FAQs About the Role – LLM & GenAI Research Engineer

1. What are the key responsibilities of the LLM & GenAI Research Engineer in this role?

You will be responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing large language models and generative AI systems. This includes conducting research, implementing novel algorithms, managing data pipelines, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and deploying scalable AI solutions. Ensuring model performance, ethical AI practices, and innovation in NLP applications are core to this role.

2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?

The ideal candidate should have a strong background in machine learning, natural language processing, and AI research. Experience with large language models (such as transformers), generative AI techniques, and proficiency in programming frameworks like PyTorch or TensorFlow is essential. A master’s or PhD in computer science, AI, or related fields is preferred but not mandatory with strong industry experience.

3. What technical skills are critical for success in this role?

Expertise in deep learning, transformer architectures, and model training at scale is vital. Familiarity with distributed computing, cloud platforms (AWS, GCP), and data preprocessing is important. Strong analytical and programming skills in Python, along with experience in model evaluation and debugging, are expected.

4. What challenges can I expect in this role?

Challenges include managing the complexity of training large-scale models, ensuring fairness and reducing bias in AI outputs, optimizing models for efficiency, and translating research innovations into production-ready solutions. You will also need to stay abreast of rapid advancements in AI research and balance innovation with ethical considerations.

5. How does this role impact the company’s products and strategy?

Your research and engineering work will directly influence the development of next-generation AI products, enhancing capabilities like natural language understanding, content generation, and intelligent automation. Your contributions will help position the company as a leader in AI innovation and drive strategic competitive advantage.

6. What is the company culture and work environment like?

The company promotes a collaborative, fast-paced, and innovation-driven environment where continuous learning is encouraged. Cross-team collaboration, open communication, and a focus on ethical AI development are core values. You will be empowered to explore creative solutions while working alongside top-tier AI researchers and engineers.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As an LLM & GenAI Research Engineer in Chicago, IL, you can anticipate a competitive and comprehensive compensation package designed to attract top AI research talent. The remuneration typically includes the following components:

1. Base Salary

The base salary for an LLM & GenAI Research Engineer varies depending on experience, education, and the company’s size and funding stage. For mid-to-senior level roles in the AI sector, annual base salaries typically range from $120,000 to $180,000, with senior or specialized experts potentially earning more.

2. Performance-Based Bonuses

Many companies offer annual performance bonuses based on individual contributions and the achievement of key milestones in research and product development. These bonuses often range from 10% to 30% of the base salary, rewarding innovation, model breakthroughs, and successful deployments.

3. Equity & Stock Options

Equity incentives are a common component of compensation in tech and AI companies, especially startups and scale-ups. You may receive stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), or other equity grants that align your interests with the company’s long-term growth and success. The value of these can vary widely but provide significant potential upside.

4. Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs)

Some employers offer LTIPs or profit-sharing programs that reward sustained contributions over multiple years. These incentives encourage commitment to ongoing research excellence and strategic AI advancements.

5. Benefits & Perks

Comprehensive benefits packages typically include:

Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement savings plans with company matching (e.g., 401(k))
Paid time off and flexible work arrangements
Professional development support and conference sponsorships
Wellness programs and mental health resources

6. Signing Bonuses & Relocation Assistance

For highly qualified candidates, companies may provide signing bonuses and relocation support to facilitate a smooth transition to the Chicago area. Signing bonuses can range from $5,000 to $20,000 depending on the company and candidate profile.

Total Compensation Potential

When combining base salary, bonuses, equity, and benefits, the total annual compensation package for an LLM & GenAI Research Engineer can range from $140,000 to $250,000 or more, particularly for candidates with strong research track records and specialized expertise in cutting-edge AI domains.

How to Apply

If you are a passionate and forward-thinking AI expert with a strong foundation in Large Language Models (LLMs) and Generative AI, we encourage you to apply for the LLM & GenAI Research Engineer position based in Chicago, IL. This is a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of AI innovation, contributing to the development of next-generation NLP systems and transformative technology solutions.

To apply, please submit your updated resume along with a cover letter that highlights the following:

Your experience working with LLMs, transformers, and generative AI technologies
Research projects, publications, or open-source contributions relevant to AI or NLP
Your role in deploying and scaling AI models in production environments
Specific tools, frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow), or platforms you have expertise in
Your motivation for applying and how your skills align with this high-impact engineering role

This role offers an exciting opportunity to shape the future of AI, collaborate with world-class talent, and see your innovations implemented in real-world applications. Join us in redefining what's possible with generative technologies.

Apply today to take the next step in your career as an LLM & GenAI Research Engineer in Chicago, IL!

For more information or to explore similar opportunities in AI and machine learning, visit our LLM and Generative AI Engineer Recruiters page.

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LLM & GenAI Research Engineer job in Chicago, IL

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