Role Description
Forward Deployed Engineer (AI / Python / Client-Facing)
-San Francisco, CA (On-site)
-$150,000 – $200,000 per year + performance bonus
- Full-time
About the Role
We are hiring a Forward Deployed Engineer to join a fast-growing, early-stage AI startup building real-world automation solutions for complex operational environments.
This is a highly hands-on, client-facing engineering role where you will take ownership from post-sales handoff through full deployment. You will work directly with customers to understand their workflows, customize AI-driven solutions, and ensure successful implementation in production.
This role combines software engineering, problem-solving under pressure, and direct customer interaction. You’ll be expected to move quickly, ship reliably, and troubleshoot live issues in real time.
What You’ll Do
- Own end-to-end deployment of new customers from onboarding to full production
- Analyze and understand complex operational workflows to identify automation opportunities
- Customize and deploy AI-driven solutions (e.g., voice systems, OCR, automation agents)
- Work closely with customers during onboarding and early usage
- Debug and resolve production issues in real time, including during live customer interactions
- Build modular, production-ready systems that can be deployed rapidly
- Continuously iterate based on customer feedback and usage patterns
Requirements (Must-Have)
- Strong experience with Python in production environments
- Proven ability to ship production-ready code and own system reliability
- Experience debugging production issues under pressure
- High level of ownership and autonomy (ability to solve ambiguous problems)
- Strong communication skills, especially in client-facing situations
- Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field from a top-tier university
- Based in San Francisco or willing to relocate for an on-site role
Nice to Have
- Experience in Forward Deployed Engineering or similar roles
- Background in healthcare or healthtech systems
- Experience with cloud infrastructure (AWS, GCP, Azure)
- Previous experience as a founder or early-stage startup engineer
- Exposure to AI systems (LLMs, agents, voice systems, OCR)
- Demonstrated leadership or strong communication background (e.g., debate, student leadership)
Compensation & Benefits
- Base salary: $150,000 – $200,000
- Performance-based bonus tied to customer outcomes
- Health insurance
- 401(k)
- Free lunch
- Gym membership
- Unlimited PTO
- Visa sponsorship available
Work Environment
- On-site in San Francisco
- Fast-paced, high-ownership startup environment
- Direct exposure to customers and real-world impact
Hiring Process
- Introductory conversation
- Technical interview
- Final interview (“vibe check”)
- On-site trial day
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $150,000.00 - $200,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
About Forward Deployed Engineering
Forward Deployed Engineers are embedded directly with customers to build custom solutions, integrate products into existing infrastructure, and bridge the gap between product engineering and customer success. The role combines deep technical skills with the ability to operate in client environments and translate business requirements into working software.
Originally pioneered by Palantir, the FDE model has spread across AI, enterprise SaaS, and cloud infrastructure companies. FDEs write production code, architect integrations, train customer teams, and feed product insights back to the core engineering organization. At companies like OpenAI, Salesforce, and Databricks, FDE teams are treated as elite engineering units that can ship custom solutions in days rather than quarters.
Typical FDE stack: Python, TypeScript, SQL, REST/GraphQL APIs, cloud platforms (AWS/GCP/Azure), and increasingly LLM APIs and AI orchestration frameworks. Strong communication and the ability to context-switch between technical and business conversations are as important as coding ability.
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