The Founding Lead AI Engineer will be responsible for architecting and building the core AI systems of a next-gen SaaS platform.
This role involves engineering AI-native systems from the ground up, including dynamic agents, retrieval-augmented workflows, vector-based memory, and continuous learning loops.
The engineer will lead the development of the foundational AI layer, utilizing tools like RAG pipelines, vector databases, prompt orchestration frameworks, and custom LLM integrations primarily on Azure.
Key responsibilities include designing intelligent agent frameworks, architecting modular AI systems, creating flexible APIs, deploying and fine-tuning LLMs, implementing embedding models, structuring data ingestion pipelines, and enabling real-time feedback-driven improvements.
The engineer will collaborate closely with the commercial founders to define the AI roadmap and product priorities, work with full-stack engineers to integrate capabilities, and maintain a lean, iterative mindset.
Requirements:
A minimum of 2 years of hands-on experience in deploying AI/ML systems in production is required.
Fluency or native proficiency in English, both written and spoken, is essential.
Proven experience with large language models (LLMs), retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), or vector search technologies is necessary.
Deep knowledge of machine learning engineering, prompt orchestration, and model optimization is required.
Experience in architecting AI workflows that involve embeddings, memory, reasoning, and automation is essential.
Familiarity with AI pipeline tools, versioning, and production-ready deployment practices is needed.
Strong programming skills in Python and experience with API-first backends are required.
The ability to design and integrate AI systems into broader product infrastructure is necessary.
Comfort in high-ownership, low-structure startup environments is essential.
Bonus points for experience with agentic frameworks, LangChain, Semantic Kernel, or co-pilot development.
Benefits:
The position offers excellent early-stage equity, up to 10.0%.
A competitive salary will be provided post-funding, aligned with market standards and individual contributions.
This role is a true founding position, allowing the individual to shape the product, company, and technical culture from day one.
The opportunity to work with experienced founders who have a proven track record, including a $43M exit and deep go-to-market expertise.
The role contributes to building an AI-first SaaS company that addresses real, valuable problems with significant real-world impact.
A remote-first work culture allows for flexibility in work location.
Timezone alignment is required, with availability to collaborate across UTC±2 (e.g., UK, Europe, Africa).
Flexible hours are offered, promoting an async-friendly and outcome-focused team environment.
The company promotes zero bureaucracy and high trust, providing full autonomy and ownership from the start.
This is a ground-floor opportunity where the engineer's decisions, code, and thinking will significantly influence the product, technology stack, and company direction.
