Head of Python Department

We are seeking an experienced Software Engineering Manager with a strong background in Python development and AI integration to lead and expand our Python department in Turkey.

In this role, you will define the strategic direction of our Python practice, foster a high-performing engineering culture, and ensure the successful delivery of scalable, production-grade AI solutions for global clients, while building the organization, developing technical excellence, and driving continuous growth and innovation across the department.

Responsibilities

• Leadership & Team Development:
• Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing team of Python engineers, fostering technical excellence and career growth
• Define team objectives, skill development plans, and succession strategies to scale the department’s capabilities
• Establish a culture of ownership, accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
• Identify hiring needs, attract top talent, and ensure effective onboarding of new team members
• Delivery & Technical Excellence:
• Oversee end-to-end delivery of complex Python and AI projects, ensuring quality, scalability, and timeliness
• Translate client business needs into robust, production-ready solutions leveraging Python frameworks such as Django, Flask, or FastAPI
• Integrate AI solutions, including Generative AI, LLMs, and RAG architectures, into client-facing and internal systems
• Architect and deploy cloud-based infrastructures (AWS, Azure, GCP) for Python and AI projects
• Drive adoption of best practices in software engineering, CI/CD, testing, and code quality
• Innovation & Knowledge Management:
• Promote continuous innovation in Python development and AI adoption across the organization
• Support knowledge sharing, skill development, and training programs within the department
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to solve complex technical, infrastructural, and production challenges

Requirements

• 7+ years of hands-on experience in Python software engineering and cloud technologies
• Proven experience integrating AI solutions (Generative AI, LLMs, RAG, model fine-tuning) in production systems
• Strong leadership experience managing teams of 15+ engineers in delivery-focused environments
• Track record of successful delivery of large-scale Python and AI projects
• Deep expertise in Python frameworks (Django, Flask, FastAPI) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)
• Experience with Agile delivery methodologies (Scrum, Kanban)
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and mentoring skills
• English proficiency: B2+ (verbal and written)

We offer

• CONTINUOUS UPSKILLING, LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT
  • Diversity of tasks and projects
  • Assessment center for objective review of competency level
  • Personal development plan
  • Mentoring programs and leadership development
  • Certification and professional development support
  • Access to learning platforms including more than 2,500 internal courses and the LinkedIn Learning library with 20,000+ courses
  • English courses taught by certified teachers
• CORPORATE BENEFITS
  • Extra leave days
  • Referral bonuses
• COMPENSATION PACKAGE
  • Competitive compensation paid in USD
  • Regular salary and performance reviews
• MEDICAL & HEALTHCARE
  • Private health insurance
  • Well-being events
• WORKING ENVIRONMENT
  • Recreation areas and kitchens
  • Tea, coffee, and snacks
  • Well-being events
  • Sports equipment and game consoles
  • IT Equipment
  • Microsoft's Software Assurance Home Use Program (HUP)

EPAM is a leading global provider of digital platform engineering and development services. We are committed to having a positive impact on our customers, our employees, and our communities. We embrace a dynamic and inclusive culture. Here you will collaborate with multi-national teams, contribute to a myriad of innovative projects that deliver the most creative and cutting-edge solutions, and have an opportunity to continuously learn and grow. No matter where you are located, you will join a dedicated, creative, and diverse community that will help you discover your fullest potential.