Senior AI Engineer – LLMs & Backend Systems

OverviewJob Title: Founding AI EngineerLocation: San Francisco, CA (On-site; relocation assistance available)Compensation: $200,000–$400,000 + 0.5%–3% equityVisa: Sponsorship available for most typesAbout the RoleWe’re hiring a Founding AI Engineer to join our startup’s core team. We are seeking a Founding AI Engineer to help design, build, and launch a multi-agent AI system that will redefine the future of talent evaluation. You’ll join at a pivotal growth stage — our AI-powered platform already serves millions of users and generates strong recurring revenue. This is an opportunity to make a massive impact on both the product and company trajectory from day one.We’re looking for a builder at heart who thrives in fast-moving environments, takes ownership, and can ship production-ready AI products. You should be equally skilled at architecting large-scale backend systems, fine-tuning LLM-driven workflows, and delivering features that impact millions of users.Key ResponsibilitiesBuild and scale production AI agents and workflows from 0 → 1.Architect large-scale backend systems using Python and TypeScript.Ship high-impact features quickly, with full ownership of your work.Leverage AI coding tools (e.g., Cursor, Cloud Code) to accelerate delivery.Collaborate directly with founders to shape technical and product direction.Requirements2–8 years of software engineering experience, including shipped large-scale LLM/agent systems.Experience as a founder, founding engineer, or early engineer at a Seed–Series B startup.Some large-tech experience working on complex, scalable systems.Strong skills in Python, TypeScript, infrastructure, and LLM/agent system design.Strong communication skills to explain technical trade-offs.Proven builder DNA — hackathon wins, notable open-source contributions, or personal projects.Preferred QualificationsDegree in Computer Science, AI, or a related technical field from a top-tier institution.Track record of successfully delivering products at scale in AI or related fields.Demonstrated experience using AI developer tools to enhance productivity.BenefitsCompetitive base salary ($200k–$400k) + generous equity (0.5%–3%).Visa sponsorship available for most types.Relocation assistance to San Francisco.Opportunity to define technical strategy and shape a product used by millions.Work in a high-growth, venture-backed environment with a culture of rapid innovation.ApplyApply today by filling out the application. Please contact Imani Tolbér at tolbert@heavenandhire.com for immediate consideration.Job Type: Full-timePay: $200,000.00 - $400,000.00 per yearBenefits (Additional)401(k)Dental insuranceFlexible scheduleHealth insurancePaid time offVision insuranceEducationBachelor's (Required)Experiencesoftware engineering: 2 years (Required)Python: 2 years (Required)TypeScript: 2 years (Required)System design: 2 years (Required)Ability to CommuteSan Francisco, CA 94114 (Required)Ability to RelocateSan Francisco, CA 94114: Relocate before starting work (Required)Work LocationIn person #J-18808-Ljbffr