Morningstar Development Program (MDP): Associate Software Engineer (Central Tech AI)

The Group:

Technology drives our business. Our team is made up of talented software engineers, infrastructure engineers, data scientists, product leaders, and UX professionals. We care deeply about technology as a craft and a competitive differentiator.

The Central Technology AI team sits at the heart of Morningstar’s technology organization, partnering across the firm to enable responsible, scalable, and innovative uses of artificial intelligence. We build and support AI-powered tools, platforms, and solutions that enhance how Morningstar teams work with data, insights, and products.

The Morningstar Development Program (MDP) is a full-time opportunity designed to launch high-potential early career technologists into impactful, long-term careers at Morningstar. Participants gain hands-on experience through meaningful projects, mentorship from experienced leaders, and exposure to Morningstar’s products, data, and technology ecosystem.

The Role:

The Morningstar Development Program – Central Technology AI is accepting applicants graduating in 2026. Successful candidates will join the Central Technology AI team and be given meaningful, hands-on work aligned to their technical background and interests.

MDP associates are expected to take ownership of their work, collaborate across teams, and communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical partners. You will receive structured mentorship, regular feedback, and professional development opportunities throughout the program.

All positions are based in our Chicago office, working 4 days a week.

Responsibilities

• Contribute as a member of an Agile technology team, helping to solve business problems through research, analysis, and hands-on development.
• Design, build, and enhance AI-enabled solutions, leveraging modern AI tools, frameworks, and programming languages such as Python.
• Collaborate with engineers, data scientists, and business partners to translate ideas and requirements into practical, scalable solutions.
• Participate in individual and team-based projects, presenting findings and outcomes to stakeholders and senior leaders.
• Engage in training and development sessions across Morningstar to build a strong foundation for a long-term career in technology and AI.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience using AI tools, platforms, or frameworks (e.g., generative AI tools, machine learning libraries, or AI-assisted development workflows).
• Strong coding skills: experience with additional languages or data tools is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently as a self-starter, taking initiative and ownership of projects.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Strong critical thinking and creative problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to adapt quickly and thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in and graduating by June 2026 or have completed degree program, preferably in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or a related field.
• A resume is required to apply.
  Please be sure to include the word “Resume” in the file name of your resume.

The start date for this role is January 11, 2027.

The base salary for this role is $92,143.

This role will be posted until November 9, 2026.

Compensation and Benefits

At Morningstar we believe people are at their best when they are at their healthiest. That’s why we champion your wellness through a wide range of programs that support all stages of your personal and professional life. Here are some examples of the offerings we provide:

• Financial Health

  • 100% 401k match up to 6% of salary

  • Stock Ownership Potential

  • Company provided life insurance - 1x salary + commission

• Physical Health 

  • Comprehensive health benefits (medical/dental/vision) including potential premium discounts and company-provided HSA contributions (up to $500-$2,000 annually) for specific plans and coverages

  • Additional medical Wellness Incentives - up to $300-$600 annual

  • Company-provided long- and short-term disability insurance

• Emotional Health 

  • Trust-Based Time Off

  • 6-week Paid Sabbatical Program

  • 6-Week Paid Family Caregiving Leave

  • Competitive 8-24 Week Paid Parental Leave

  • Adoption Assistance

  • Leadership Coaching & Formal Mentorship Opportunities

  • Annual Flex Stipend - $1000 annually to cover personal education & well-being expenses

  • Tuition Reimbursement

• Social Health 

  • Charitable Matching Gifts program

  • Dollars for Doers volunteer program

  • Paid volunteering days

  • 15+ Employee Resource & Affinity Groups

Morningstar's hybrid work environment gives you the opportunity to collaborate in-person each week as we've found that we're at our best when we're purposely together on a regular basis. In most of our locations, our hybrid work model is four days in-office each week. A range of other benefits are also available to enhance flexibility as needs change. No matter where you are, you'll have tools and resources to engage meaningfully with your global colleagues.