Python developer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Column Technical Services is seeking a seasoned Full Stack Python Developer with strong experience in FastAPI to join a high-performing agile team. This individual will design, build, and support scalable backend systems and APIs, while also contributing to broader full-stack initiatives that address complex business needs. Success in this role requires strong proficiency in Python, modern frameworks, database systems, and established engineering practices. If this opportunity aligns with your experience and interests, we encourage you to apply and begin the conversation with us. This position does not provide sponsorship. Candidates must currently reside in the Chicagoland area. Role OverviewThis position is suited for a systems-minded professional who thrives in fast-moving environments and naturally leverages AI as a primary tool rather than a fallback. You will operate at the intersection of product and engineering, continuously experimenting and helping to deliver AI-driven solutions that perform effectively in real-world , not disrupt, your productivity. Key Responsibilities-Design and continuously refine AI-driven workflow systems using modern agent-based frameworks-Develop agent capabilities, supporting tools, and safeguards to ensure system reliability and predictability-Integrate and optimize large language model APIs (, OpenAI, Anthropic) for performance and efficiency-Create evaluation frameworks to assess output quality and detect regressions early-Quickly prototype and validate new concepts through hands-on experimentation-Remain actively informed on advancements in AI and share relevant findings with the team-Partner with product managers and stakeholders to clarify requirements and translate them into technical solutions-Execute proof-of-concept initiatives to validate ideas and reduce implementation risk-Write high-quality, maintainable, and well-tested code aligned with defined acceptance criteria and compliance needs-Architect scalable components across data, application, and business layers-Diagnose and resolve technical issues throughout development and integration-Develop and maintain automated testing suites, including unit, integration, regression, and performance tests-Ensure solutions adhere to enterprise architecture standards across the development lifecycle Required Skills & Qualifications-2+ years of experience with cloud platforms such as Azure (or equivalent)-2+ years working with open-source frameworks, including FastAPI and FastLLM-2+ years of hands-on experience with Agile delivery practices-Highly adaptable with a genuine interest in staying current in a rapidly evolving AI landscape-Action-oriented mindset, with a preference for testing and iterating rather than over-planning-Strong familiarity with AI tools and a forward-thinking approach to their application-Ability to quickly learn new technologies and frameworks independently-Demonstrated experience building and deploying high-scale, distributed transactional systems-Strong proficiency in Python and FastAPI (or similar asynchronous frameworks)-Practical experience working with relational databases, such as Microsoft SQL Server-Exposure to large language model integrations (OpenAI, Anthropic, etc.)-Understanding of RESTful API design and backend development fundamentals-Experience with Git and collaborative version control workflows-Familiarity with testing frameworks like pytest or unittest-Experience working within Agile methodologies (Scrum or Kanban) and understanding of SDLC processes-Solid grasp of database design, querying, and data access patterns-Experience developing applications using modular, component-based frameworks-Strong communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across technical and non-technical audiences-Commitment to modern development practices for enterprise application delivery-Experience supporting production releases, including deployments, patches, and enhancements-Ability to troubleshoot production issues and improve system performance and reliability