Gradient

Applied AI Engineer

San Francisco, California, United States

$180,000 – $280,000Compensation
Junior (1 to 2 years), Mid-level (3 to 4 years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
AI & Machine Learning, FintechIndustries

Requirements

Candidates must hold a degree in a deeply technical field such as computer science, AI/ML, or computational science and have a proven track record of applied AI research, which may include significant journal or conference publications, leadership in AI feature development, or contributions to popular open source projects. A minimum of 1 year of software engineering experience in a production environment is required, along with proficiency in Python, PyTorch, and LLM prompting. Candidates should also have fluency in one or more of the following areas: LMMs, multimodal LLMs, prompt engineering, reinforcement learning, reasoning and search with AI, and related algorithms. Experience in building products from the ground up in an early-stage startup environment is essential, as is a strong interest in leveraging AI to disrupt industries.

Responsibilities

The Applied AI Engineer will identify, prove out, and prototype impactful improvements to the core platform using novel AI solutions. They will collaborate with adjacent stakeholders to empathize with and learn from customer needs, clearly communicate findings to leadership, and work closely with engineering on production implementation. The role requires a commitment to staying curious about AI research across all levels of the stack and shaping team culture and research best practices within the organization.

Skills

Python
PyTorch
LLM prompting
LMMs
multimodal LLMs
prompt engineering
RL
reasoning
search
AI
software engineering

Gradient

Energy-efficient window ACs and heat pumps

About Gradient

Gradient Comfort creates energy-efficient window air conditioners that also function as heat pumps, providing both cooling and heating without obstructing views. Their products use R-32 refrigerant, which is more environmentally friendly than traditional options, making them appealing to eco-conscious consumers, especially in regions with strict emissions regulations like New York. Unlike competitors, Gradient Comfort sells directly to consumers through its website, fostering a closer relationship with customers. The company's goal is to lead in clean energy innovation and support decarbonization efforts in home climate control.

Key Metrics

San Francisco, CaliforniaHeadquarters
2017Year Founded
$32.1MTotal Funding
SERIES_ACompany Stage
Energy, Consumer GoodsIndustries
51-200Employees

Benefits

Equity
Medical/vision/dental/life/disability insurance
401k
Paid parental leave
Commuter benefits
Unlimited PTO within reason
Relocation package ( out of state applicants only )

Risks

Increased competition from established HVAC companies could challenge Gradient's market share.
Supply chain disruptions in the semiconductor industry may impact heat pump production.
Economic downturns could reduce consumer spending on Gradient's premium products.

Differentiation

Gradient's heat pumps use R-32 refrigerant, reducing environmental impact compared to HFCs.
The company's window-mounted design offers unobstructed views, ideal for urban living.
Gradient partners with NYC Housing Authority, showcasing commitment to community-focused solutions.

Upsides

Gradient received a $17.5 million grant to establish a Michigan manufacturing plant.
The Inflation Reduction Act incentives could boost sales of Gradient's heat pumps.
Growing eco-conscious consumerism supports Gradient's positioning as a green technology leader.

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