Upwork

Lead Machine Learning Engineer - AI Agents

Remote

Not SpecifiedCompensation
Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Information Technology & ServicesIndustries

Requirements

Candidates should possess strong proficiency in Python and modern ML frameworks such as PyTorch or TensorFlow, with experience developing and deploying AI systems. They should have a deep understanding of core ML concepts, including transformers, generative models, and agent architectures such as MCP or A2A. Experience training large models on GPU clusters and integrating LLMs with external tools via APIs or orchestration frameworks is also required, along with a comprehensive understanding of foundational deep learning, machine learning concepts, and state-of-the-art GenAI models. Hands-on experience training custom LLMs on GPUs and working with Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) systems is necessary, and a proven ability to build end-to-end ML pipelines—from data prep and experimentation to production deployment—in a cloud-native environment is expected.

Responsibilities

The Lead AI/ML Engineer will architect and implement core infrastructure to support agent-based LLM systems, including multi-agent pipelines, RAG, and real-time orchestration. They will train and fine-tune custom models, including LLMs and foundation models, to solve unique Upwork-specific challenges. This role involves leading cross-functional collaboration across engineering, product, and research teams to align technical solutions with business impact, mentoring and guiding engineers and researchers, and translating experimental ideas into reliable, scalable production systems by applying best practices in AI engineering and deployment. Furthermore, the Lead AI/ML Engineer will publish and share innovations where appropriate, contributing to Upwork’s visibility in the broader AI/ML research community.

Skills

Machine Learning
Large Language Models
LLMs
AI Infrastructure
Multi-agent Pipelines
Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG)
Model Fine-tuning
AI Research
Distributed Systems
Real-time Orchestration
Cross-functional Collaboration
Mentoring

Upwork

Online platform connecting freelancers and clients

About Upwork

Upwork connects freelancers with clients looking for various services in the gig economy, which focuses on short-term contracts instead of permanent jobs. The platform allows freelancers to create profiles that showcase their skills, while clients can post job listings for specific projects. Freelancers bid on these projects, and clients choose the best candidates based on proposals and reviews. Upwork earns revenue through service fees charged to freelancers based on their earnings, with a tiered structure that rewards long-term client relationships. The platform also offers premium memberships and additional services for enhanced visibility and access to job listings. Upwork provides tools for time tracking, invoicing, and project management, making it easier for both freelancers and clients to manage their work and payments. The goal of Upwork is to facilitate successful project completion by bridging the gap between freelancers and clients.

Key Metrics

San Francisco, CaliforniaHeadquarters
2015Year Founded
$143.8MTotal Funding
IPOCompany Stage
Consulting, Enterprise SoftwareIndustries
10,001+Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance
Unlimited Paid Time Off
401(k) Retirement Plan
401(k) Company Match
Parental Leave
Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Risks

Increased competition from Fiverr and Toptal threatens Upwork's market share.
The new Fiverr-style Project Catalog may commoditize services, reducing freelancers' perceived value.
Strategic shifts under new management may not align with current client expectations.

Differentiation

Upwork connects freelancers with clients across diverse industries, enhancing global work opportunities.
The platform offers tools like time tracking and invoicing for efficient project management.
Upwork's tiered fee structure incentivizes long-term client relationships, differentiating it from competitors.

Upsides

Upwork's acquisition of Objective AI enhances its AI capabilities for better talent matching.
The introduction of Featured Jobs increases visibility for job posts, attracting more candidates.
Upwork's recognition as the top job posting site boosts its credibility among employers.

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