Founder Associate

About the role

About the Role Join a fast-moving, pre-seed AI startup that is reimagining how top talent connects with high-growth companies. Operating at the intersection of AI and talent acquisition, this company automates and optimizes workflows within the global headhunting industry — putting candidates first and dramatically improving hiring outcomes for both job seekers and startups alike. This is a true 0→1 operator seat sitting directly alongside the founding team. You'll work fluidly across product, growth, operations, and key partnerships — whatever moves the company forward fastest. If you want a role that feels like building your own company with a head start, this is it. What You'll Do You'll take full ownership of ambiguous, high-impact problems, including: Founder-priority projects: from new market initiatives to strategy and execution Candidate experience & funnel: improve conversion, quality, and outcomes at scale Ops & systems: design scalable processes that keep pace with rapid growth Go-to-market support: help refine messaging, run experiments, and develop partnerships Product feedback loops: translate real-world candidate and company needs into actionable product priorities What We're Looking For Required: Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to collaborate across founders, engineers, and recruiting stakeholders Experience with one or more components of the tech stack (TypeScript/JavaScript, Python, React, Node.js, PostgreSQL) or a demonstrated ability to learn new technologies quickly 2–6 years of experience in a startup environment or in roles with high ownership and accountability On-site availability in San Francisco (this is an in-person, high-intensity role) Nice to have: Genuine interest in AI-driven recruiting or talent-first approaches to hiring Comfort navigating ambiguity and moving at speed Background at a high-growth startup, consulting firm, or investment firm You'll thrive here if you want: A fast track toward becoming a founder, GM, or early exec Real ownership — not just "helping," but driving outcomes A team that values speed, sharp thinking, and high standards The energy of building in-person alongside a small, ambitious core team Compensation & Benefits Salary: $90,000 – $120,000 USD annually Visa sponsorship is available Early-stage equity opportunity (details shared during the interview process) Location San Francisco, CA, USA — fully on-site This is an intensely in-person role; the team works and builds together from a shared SF location Zero commute, 10× feedback loops, and tight-knit team collaboration are core to how this team operates