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Founding Engineer (Applied AI)
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Observed pay for machine learning engineer jobs in the united states
Among 19 openings that publish compensation, the median stated annual range is $132K–$200K USD. This uses observed listing data across 403 live jobs, never an estimated salary.
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About the Role Join a small, high-impact team at an early-stage startup building cutting-edge AI to transform the construction industry. This company uses a model-garden approach to automate blueprint understanding, material takeoffs, and cost estimation — making construction projects faster and more affordable. As a Founding Engineer (Applied AI) , you'll own the intelligence layer, taking the newest computer vision and LLM models from research to production-grade prototypes that real users rely on. This is a full-time, in-office role based in San Francisco, CA . What You'll Do Focus on the intelligence layer — not the application layer — designing and advancing AI/CV/ML systems end-to-end. Apply the latest computer vision models, large language models, and AI systems to real construction workflows. Ship working prototypes quickly, then iterate based on direct user feedback. Coordinate and orchestrate multiple ML models as part of a broader model-garden architecture. Roll up your sleeves for "schlep" work — the unglamorous but essential parts of building early-stage products. What We're Looking For Required: Hands-on applied experience with computer vision , machine learning , and deep learning . Strong Python skills and comfort working close to the model layer. Proven track record as a 0-to-1 builder — you've shipped AI systems to production. Growth mindset: you value trajectory (slope) over where you started (y-intercept). Communicates with empathy and honesty — candid about what's working and what isn't. Based in San Francisco or willing to relocate; fully in-office. Nice to Have: Experience building a product that people used or paid for (founder or early startup experience). Background in construction, estimating, or construction technology. Impact-driven mindset with comfort operating in ambiguity. Compensation & Benefits Salary: $120,000 – $180,000 USD annually, depending on experience. Early-stage equity opportunity as a founding team member. Note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this role. Location San Francisco, CA, United States — full-time, in-office. Candidates must be local or willing to relocate.
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