About the RoleThis is a founding engineering role at an early-stage AI startup transforming the construction pre-construction workflow through automated blueprint understanding and cost estimation. You'll own the intelligence layer - advancing computer vision and AI systems from research to reliable, shipped products that real users depend on. It's a high-impact position on a small, fast-moving team where your work directly shapes the core product.
What You'll Do- Drive the intelligence layer of the product, focusing on CV/ML systems rather than application-layer work.
- Apply cutting-edge computer vision models, LLMs, and AI systems to real construction workflows.
- Ship initial prototypes quickly, then iterate and improve based on direct user feedback.
- Coordinate and compose multiple ML models into coherent, production-ready pipelines.
- Roll up your sleeves for hands-on, ground-level work - this team embraces "schlep" as part of building early-stage products.
What We're Looking For- Proven 0-to-1 builder with AI systems shipped to production.
- Strong applied ML experience, including machine learning, deep learning, and computer vision (object detection a plus).
- Proficient in Python and comfortable working across the ML stack.
- Growth mindset - values trajectory and continuous learning over prior pedigree.
- Communicates with empathy and honesty; proactively flags what's working and what isn't.
- Comfortable with ambiguity and repetitive foundational work common at early-stage startups.
- US citizenship required (visa sponsorship is not available).
- Bonus: background in construction or estimating.
- Bonus: prior experience founding or contributing early to a product that attracted real users or paying customers.
Compensation & BenefitsBase salary range:
$120,000 - $180,000 USD annually. Equity participation expected at the founding engineer level. No visa sponsorship available.
LocationOn-site, full-time in
San Francisco, California, USA. Candidates must be based in SF or willing to relocate.
