Founding Engineer (Applied AI)
Summary
Build and ship computer-vision and AI systems that automate blueprint understanding and cost estimation for construction workflows using Python and modern ML tooling.
About the Role
Join a small, high-impact team at the frontier of construction technology. This early-stage company uses a model-garden approach to automate blueprint understanding, material takeoffs, and cost estimation — making construction faster and more affordable. As a Founding Engineer (Applied AI), you'll own the intelligence layer: advancing computer vision and AI systems from research to production prototypes that real users rely on every day.
This is a rare opportunity for a builder who wants to go deep on applied CV/ML in a domain ripe for disruption, work directly alongside the founders, and have outsized influence on product and technical direction from day one.
What You'll Do
Own and advance the intelligence layer — computer vision, LLMs, and AI systems — rather than the application layer.
Apply the latest computer vision models and AI techniques to real construction workflows (e.g., object detection, document understanding, material quantification).
Ship working prototypes quickly and iterate based on direct user feedback.
Coordinate and orchestrate multiple ML models to solve complex, end-to-end estimation problems.
Embrace "schlep" work — the unglamorous but critical groundwork that makes early-stage products real.
What We're Looking For
Required:
Demonstrated 0-to-1 builder experience — you've shipped AI systems to production.
Strong applied skills in Computer Vision, Deep Learning, and Machine Learning.
Proficiency in Python and modern ML/CV tooling.
Growth mindset: you value slope over y-intercept and thrive in ambiguity.
Clear, empathetic communicator — honest about what's working and what isn't.
Willingness to do whatever it takes, including unglamorous foundational work.
US Citizenship required (no visa sponsorship available).
Based in San Francisco or willing to relocate; role is full-time, in-office.
Nice to Have:
Background in construction, estimating, or the built environment.
Experience as a founder or early employee at a startup where you built something people used or paid for.
Impact-driven mindset with a desire to work on problems that matter at scale.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary: $120,000 – $180,000 USD annually (depending on experience)
Early-stage equity
Full-time, permanent position
Location
San Francisco, CA, United States
Full-time, in-office — relocation welcome
Remote work is not available for this role
Visa sponsorship: not available