What does a Forward Deployed Engineer do at UNIS?

Forward Deployed Engineers at UNIS are embedded directly with enterprise customers to implement and customize the platform, build integrations, and solve technical problems in real-world client environments. They combine software engineering skills with direct customer interaction, writing production code while also serving as the primary technical point of contact.

What skills are required for this forward deployed engineer role?

The forward deployed engineer role at UNIS typically requires strong software engineering skills (Python, TypeScript, SQL), experience with APIs and system integration, comfort with cloud platforms, and the ability to communicate complex technical topics to non-technical stakeholders. Most FDE roles require 3-7 years of engineering experience.

Is this Forward Deployed Engineer position at UNIS remote?

Remote availability varies by UNIS FDE role. Some positions are fully remote, others require travel to customer sites, and some are hybrid. Check the full job description above for the specific location requirements for this posting.

UNIS

forward deployed engineer

$114K - $177K Los Angeles, CA, US Mid Posted September 28, 2026

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Role Description

Overview

The Forward Deployed Engineer (FDE) bridges the gap between cutting-edge software development and real-world business application by embedding directly within client organizations to drive impactful solutions. This role is pivotal in translating complex technical problems into actionable insights that align with the strategic objectives of the business. Positioned at the intersection of engineering, consulting, and project execution, the FDE significantly contributes to client outcomes by deploying technology that solves critical challenges while fostering collaborative partnerships internally and externally.

Responsibilities

1. Partner with client teams to understand their business objectives and operational challenges, designing tailored solutions that leverage technical expertise and drive measurable outcomes.
2. Deploy software platforms and tools on-site, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems and processes while maintaining security and performance standards.
3. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including software engineers, data scientists, and business stakeholders, to iterate on solutions based on real-time feedback and evolving requirements.
4. Troubleshoot complex issues in live environments, providing rapid response and resolution to minimize downtime and enhance user experience.
5. Synthesize learnings from deployment projects into actionable recommendations, contributing to the improvement of core products and engineering practices within the organization.

Minimum Requirements

1. Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field.
2. 3+ years of professional experience in software engineering, system integration, or similar roles with a proven track record of delivering successful technical outcomes.
3. Strong programming skills in languages such as Python, Java, or C++, alongside experience with database systems and APIs.
4. Ability to navigate fast-paced client environments and understand business processes, translating them into technical requirements.
5. Willingness to travel extensively and work on-site with client teams per deployment projects.

Preferred Requirements

1. Advanced degree (e.g., Master’s) in Computer Science, Engineering, or Management Information Systems.
2. Familiarity with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud and experience implementing enterprise-grade solutions.
3. Background in data analytics, machine learning, or business intelligence tools to enhance the strategic value provided in deployments.
4. Experience working within consulting or client-facing roles, balancing technical execution with stakeholder management.
5. Certifications such as AWS Solutions Architect, PMP, or similar credentials that demonstrate expertise in relevant domains.

Skills

1. Advanced programming and debugging skills across multiple languages and frameworks.
2. Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities for navigating complex technical issues.
3. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of influencing non-technical and technical stakeholders alike.
4. Adaptability and resilience in dynamic client environments, coupled with a proactive approach to ongoing learning and development.
5. Competence in project management, prioritization, and time handling in multi-stakeholder scenarios.

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.