Among computer and information research scientists, AI is already used for a large share of the tasks. Measured exposure for computer and information research scientists: 34% (high).

Share of this job’s tasks that AI is already used for at work, from real usage. It is not a forecast of job loss, and a low number means no use seen yet. Source: Anthropic Economic Index.

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About the job

SUMMARY/JOB PURPOSE

The Associate Engineer - AI and Agentics is responsible for building foundational AI-enabled applications, prototypes, prompts, tests, documentation, and agentic automations while learning SDLC best practices, security expectations, and responsible AI standards.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

Assist in building simple AI-enabled prototypes, internal tools, and workflow automations.

Translate clearly defined requirements into small software components, scripts, prompts, test cases, and configuration changes.

Support prompt engineering, basic agent workflows, retrieval-assisted use cases, and API integrations.

Use approved AI-assisted development tools, such as coding copilots or agentic coding tools, to learn, prototype, document, and improve code with appropriate review.

Write and execute basic unit tests, validation checks, and troubleshooting steps to confirm expected behavior.

Maintain clear documentation, including setup notes, design summaries, prompt/spec notes, user instructions, and operational runbooks.

Participate in code reviews, demos, testing sessions, backlog discussions, and team learning activities.

Follow company policies for data privacy, information security, access control, compliance, and responsible use of AI.

Performs other duties as assigned

Complies with all policies and standards

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

No supervisory responsibilities.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS & ABILITIES

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Software Engineering, or a related field; or

Equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience

Candidates with early experience of software engineering, data science, automation, or related technical work gained through internships, academic projects, research assignments, open-source contributions, hackathons, or personal portfolio work.

Portfolio, GitHub repository, class project, internship deliverable, or capstone project that demonstrates coding, automation, AI, data, or problem-solving skills.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Required:

Foundational programming ability in Python, JavaScript/TypeScript, Java, or a similar language, demonstrated through coursework or projects.

Basic understanding of software development fundamentals, including data structures, APIs, Git, debugging, testing, and documentation.

Introductory knowledge of AI, machine learning, generative AI, LLMs, prompt engineering, or data science concepts through coursework, projects, or self-directed learning.

Ability to learn and apply approved AI-assisted development tools responsibly, with review and coaching from senior team members.

Ability to quickly acquire new knowledge, apply critical thinking, maintain attention to detail, and ask insightful questions to resolve uncertainty in requirements or technical approaches.

Clear written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain work, document decisions, and collaborate with technical and non-technical teammates.

Ability to apply principles of responsible AI, data privacy, information security, and ethical technology practices in day-to-day work.

Preferred:

Basic familiarity with cloud platforms, databases, REST APIs, notebooks, or data tools is preferred.

Travel Requirements

0% No travel is expected of this position

#LI-EZ1

Location: Alameda, CA

Range for this position: $115,000 - $145,000

The base pay offered will take into account job-related knowledge, skills, experience and internal equity, among other factors.

In addition to the base salary, as part of our Total Rewards program, Exelixis offers comprehensive employee benefits package, including a 401k plan with generous company contributions, group medical, dental and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, and flexible spending accounts. Employees are also eligible for a discretionary annual bonus program, or if field sales staff, a sales-based incentive plan. Exelixis also offers employees the opportunity to purchase company stock, and receive long-term incentives, 15 accrued vacation days in their first year, 17 paid holidays including a company-wide winter shutdown in December, and up to 10 sick days throughout the calendar year.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the recruiting process, please email us at: ApplicantAccommodations@exelixis.com .

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Our office is a modern space that fosters collaboration and creativity. Teams work closely together, sharing ideas and solutions in a supportive atmosphere. We provide all necessary equipment, including dual monitors and ergonomic chairs, to ensure a comfortable workspace.

DISCLAIMER: The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.