Head of Engineering (Hands-on 50%+ coding)
About the role:
Make sure to apply with all the requested information, as laid out in the job overview below.Join our fast-moving, VC-backed stealth startup revolutionising retail with cutting-edge AI. We're pioneering a platform that redefines the customer experience, leveraging the power of reinforcement learning, generative AI, and advanced recommendation systems. We're seeking a hands-on Head of Engineering with deep backend expertise and a passion for coding (50%+ of your time will be dedicated to development) to lead the technical vision and execution of our platform. We embrace a "best idea wins" culture, operate with zero legacy technical debt, and are committed to using the latest technologies.As Head of Engineering, you will be both a technical leader and a key contributor, shaping the architecture and development of our core platform. This role offers a unique opportunity to directly impact the future of retail while remaining deeply involved in the coding process.Responsibilities:Architect & Build:
Design, develop, and implement highly scalable, reliable, secure, and performant web applications capable of handling low-latency, high-volume data streams, as well as B2C Android applications. This includes hands-on coding and demonstrating expertise in backend technologies. You will own the technical roadmap and drive its execution, focusing on building systems that can efficiently process and leverage large datasets for machine learning applications.Technical Leadership:
Provide technical guidance and mentorship to other engineers as the team grows, fostering a culture of innovation and high-quality code.Drive Innovation:
Translate cutting-edge machine learning research into impactful products and solutions, leading the development process from concept to production. Collaborate closely with the data science team to bring AI-powered features to life.Technology Selection & Evaluation:
Continuously evaluate and select the best technologies and tools to support our platform’s growth and evolution. Champion best practices for software development and ensure code quality.Deep expertise in at least one backend language and framework, such as TypeScript & Node.js, Python & FastAPI, or Java & Spring Boot. We are open to considering other relevant technologies.Proven experience with modular, API-first development.Strong understanding of authentication and authorisation mechanisms (OAuth, SSO, JWT).Expertise in database design and optimisation (PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB, DynamoDB).Proficiency working with cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, and/or Azure).Bonus Points:Experience with microservices architecture.DevOps experience, including CI/CD pipelines and infrastructure management.Knowledge of RESTful and/or GraphQL APIs.Familiarity with reinforcement learning and/or generative AI concepts.Experience of front-end development using Kotlin.What We Offer:The opportunity to be a founding member of a groundbreaking startup.A dynamic and collaborative work environment.A chance to work with cutting-edge technologies and solve challenging problems.Competitive compensation.Significant equity in a rapidly growing company.If you're a passionate and experienced engineer who thrives in a fast-paced environment and wants to make a real impact on the future of retail, we encourage you to apply.Seniority level:
DirectorEmployment type:
Full-timeJob function:
Engineering and Information TechnologyIndustries:
Technology, Information and Media
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