Senior Django Developer for AI Text Messaging System

We’re looking for an experienced developer to build an AI assistant that users can interact with through text messaging. The assistant will connect to our existing database, answer questions using our information, handle follow-up questions, and send personalized news updates based on users’ interests. The experience we’re aiming for is similar to texting an assistant like Instinct or Muse, with a focused scope: answering questions using our existing database and delivering personalized news updates. You’ll take ownership of the technical setup, integrations, and development, working with our team to launch an initial version. Our target is a working pilot within approximately one month, with the scope finalized together. You should have strong Python/Django experience and hands-on experience integrating AI models, APIs, and databases. Experience with Twilio or similar messaging platforms is important, along with building secure account access, subscription permissions, and scheduled notifications. We’re looking for someone who has built and launched practical AI applications and can make sound technical decisions, communicate clearly, and identify potential issues early. Accuracy is essential: the assistant needs to retrieve reliable information from our data and handle unclear questions appropriately. When applying, please share examples of relevant applications you’ve built, explain your specific role, and describe the tools you used. Please also include your availability over the next month and your hourly rate or estimated project budget.