AI-Driven In-Game Player Development

I’m looking for a developer to design and build an AI system that controls in-game characters so they look and behave like real players. The goal is to make the world feel more populated and alive.

What the AI characters should do

Move around the world naturally: walking routes, idling, sitting, travelling between towns and hunting areas
Level up and grind mobs the way a real player would
Use skills and combos that suit their clan/class (Shaolin, Wudang, Beggar, Eunyeon, Heaven, Sacred Alliance, etc.)
Have realistic gear, names and appearances for their level
[Optional] Chat now and then with simple, context-aware messages (greetings, emotes, short replies)
[Optional] Join parties, respond to trades or duel requests, or take part in clan wars
Vary in skill level and play style so they don’t all act the same
Stay controllable by admins: spawn/despawn, set how many are active, set behaviour profiles

Technical details

Server files: [e.g. C++ server source / emulator name / version]
Database: [e.g. MSSQL / MySQL]
Preferred approach: [server-side fake players / headless clients / open to suggestions]
Must not noticeably hurt server performance with [X] AI characters running at the same time

Ideal freelancer

Has worked on MMORPG server development (9Dragons experience is a big plus)
Has built game AI before: behaviour trees, state machines, pathfinding
Strong in [C++ / C# / Python / Lua]
Can show examples of similar game AI or bot/NPC work

To apply, please include

Similar projects you’ve done
Your proposed technical approach (server-side or client-side, and why)
Estimated timeline and milestones
Any questions about the server setup