Agentic AI Engineering Co-op

We are seeking a forward-thinking and technically curious Agentic AI Engineering Co-op to join our team. Unlike traditional AI roles that focus on static models, this position is centered on agency—building autonomous systems capable of reasoning, using tools, and executing complex workflows to achieve specific goals.

The ideal candidate is someone who enjoys the “plumbing” of AI as much as the “intelligence.” You will spend your time bridging the gap between raw Large Language Models (LLMs) and production-ready autonomous agents by optimizing data, architecting workflows, and managing the infrastructure they run on.

Location: Cincinnati, OH (Quest Defense Blue Ash office), and/or the 1819 Innovation Hub at the University of Cincinnati. 

Responsibilities

• AI Agent Development: Design, prompt, and implement autonomous agents using modern frameworks to automate complex business functions.
• Workflow Mapping: Analyze manual processes and translate them into technical logic maps and orchestration diagrams for AI execution.
• Data Optimization: Clean, structure, and refine databases and datasets to ensure high-quality inputs for RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) and tool-use.
• Automation Scripting: Write robust scripts (e.g., Python, Bash) to connect disparate APIs and build the "glue" between AI agents and external software.
• Containerization: Package AI environments and agent dependencies using Docker to ensure seamless deployment across different systems.
• Iterative Testing: Test agent outputs for reliability, refining system prompts and tool definitions to reduce hallucinations and logic errors.

Qualifications

• Programming: Proficiency in Python
• AI Fundamentals: A strong understanding of LLMs, prompt engineering, and the concept of “Agentic workflows” (loops, tool-calling, and reasoning)
• Data Management: Experience with SQL or NoSQL databases and a passion for data cleaning and normalization
• DevOps Basics: Foundational knowledge of Docker and containerization
• Linux Experience: Comfort working in a Linux environment (CLI, shell scripting, permission management) is preferred
• Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or AI at the University of Cincinnati, or related major
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Basic to intermediate software development skills are a plus
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical methods
• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines, work under time constraints and multitask
• Ability to interact with employees/managers with strong oral and written communication skills
• Project management experience is desired, but not required
  
  Physical Requirements & Work Environment:
  • Mostly Office Environments.
  • Substantial amounts of telephone and computer work.
  • Heavily Regulated Industries with strict adherence to procedures.
  • Flexibility to meet business deadlines by staying late or arriving early.
  • Typical 8 hour days plus lunch / 40 hour weeks / core (required) hours are 9AM to 4PM
  • Ability to use personal transportation to visit work locations.
  • Due to the nature of the work, all candidates must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.