Founding Engineer (Applied AI)

Role details

ABOUT THE ROLE This is a founding engineering role on the intelligence layer of an early-stage construction-tech AI startup. You'll work on computer vision and ML systems that parse construction blueprints and automate material takeoffs and cost estimation — work that directly shapes how fast the core product ships and improves. WHAT YOU'LL DO - Own the intelligence layer: design, build, and iterate on computer vision and AI systems — not the application layer. - Apply the latest CV models, LLMs, and AI tooling to production problems. - Ship prototypes quickly, gather user feedback, and drive rapid improvement cycles. - Coordinate and orchestrate multiple ML models within a model-garden architecture. - Roll up your sleeves for "schlep" work — the unglamorous tasks that come with building at the earliest stage. WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR - Hands-on applied CV/ML experience — you've shipped AI to real users in production. - Strong Python skills with a foundation in machine learning and deep learning. - Proven 0-to-1 builder mindset: you can take an ambiguous problem and drive it to a working system. - Growth-oriented thinker — trajectory and learning velocity matter more than years of experience. - Clear, empathetic communicator who is honest about tradeoffs and blockers. - Background from high-caliber AI/ML or autonomy teams (e.g., self-driving, robotics, research labs, or top AI companies) is a strong signal. - Bonus: construction industry background, or experience founding or building a product people paid for. - US citizenship is required. Visa sponsorship is not available. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS Base salary: $120,000 – $180,000 USD annually. Equity available as part of the founding team package. LOCATION On-site in San Francisco, CA, USA. Candidates must be based in SF or willing to relocate.