Smart Automation & AI Associate

About the role

DWS Group is hiring a Smart Automation & AI Associate (Senior Operations Analyst) in Madrid, within the COO Division's Smart Middle Office. The role combines operational understanding with hands-on engineering and automation, turning operational pain points into practical, scalable solutions using approved AI tools, Python, SQL and workflow automation. It works closely with Operations to prototype, implement and embed controlled solutions that reduce manual effort, improve data quality and strengthen processes.

Key responsibilities

• Assess operational improvement needs identified by the business and recommend feasible solutions using approved AI, machine learning, workflow automation and data analytics tools.
• Define solution design with operational subject matter experts and Technology, covering requirements, data inputs, controls, scalability and alignment with business priorities.
• Build and test proofs of concept and lightweight automation solutions using approved AI tools, Python, SQL and workflow technologies, incorporating user feedback and documenting results and limitations.
• Support controlled implementation through user testing, process and technical documentation, performance monitoring and benefit tracking.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Finance or a related discipline, or equivalent professional experience.
• 5+ years of experience in Python development within financial services.
• Experience designing and implementing workflow automation, AI or data-driven solutions in an operational environment.
• Strong understanding of data management, controls, governance and risk frameworks in enterprise settings.
• Proven ability to perform root-cause analysis, solve complex problems and translate business requirements into practical solutions.
• Ability to share reusable solutions, coach colleagues and help build automation and AI capability across the Smart Middle Office.

Required skills

• Strong analytical and programming skills with SQL, Python or comparable tools, including reporting, automated analysis and handling large data sets.
• Engineering discipline: reusable design, clear documentation, testing, version control and handover to a controlled production environment.
• Ability to define success measures and show the impact of automation (time saved, risk reduced, quality improved, capacity released).
• Judgement to balance speed with security, control and regulatory expectations when experimenting with AI and automation.

What we offer

• A personalised benefits plan covering healthcare, company perks and retirement planning.
• A hybrid working model, with the office-to-home split discussed during the application and interview process.