[Remote] Senior Lead Machine Learning Engineer at Upwork

Remote

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Software Development, Artificial IntelligenceIndustries

Requirements

Demonstrated expertise in building, deploying, and scaling advanced ML models in a production environment using Python and frameworks like PyTorch or TensorFlow
Deep technical understanding of transformer-based models, generative AI, and agent architectures such as MCP or A2A
Proven experience training and optimizing large models on GPU clusters and integrating LLMs with APIs or orchestration systems
Track record of leading high-impact, cross-functional initiatives with a focus on business outcomes and customer value
A collaborative mindset, clear communication skills, and a drive to mentor and elevate those around you

Responsibilities

Design and implement resilient infrastructure for agentic LLM systems, including multi-agent coordination, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), and real-time orchestration
Lead training and fine-tuning of large-scale foundation models tailored to Upwork’s domain-specific challenges and user base
Partner with engineering, product, and research teams to align technical development with strategic business priorities
Mentor and support other engineers and researchers to elevate team-wide technical capabilities and foster a culture of innovation and inclusion
Drive experimentation and translate findings into robust, scalable production systems with clear metrics of success
Identify opportunities for innovation, challenge conventional approaches, and lead initiatives that push the boundaries of applied ML
Contribute to the external AI/ML community through papers, talks, or open-source contributions, enhancing Upwork’s visibility in the field

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Machine LearningLLMAIModel TrainingInfrastructure DesignMulti-agent CoordinationRetrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG)Real-time OrchestrationSoftware DevelopmentLeadershipStrategyMentoring

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What are the key responsibilities for the Senior Lead Machine Learning Engineer role?

Responsibilities include designing resilient infrastructure for agentic LLM systems, leading training and fine-tuning of large-scale foundation models, partnering with cross-functional teams, mentoring engineers, driving experimentation, and contributing to the AI/ML community.

What technical skills are required for this position?

Required skills include expertise in Python and frameworks like PyTorch or TensorFlow, deep understanding of transformer-based models, generative AI, and agent architectures such as MCP or A2A, plus experience training large models on GPU clusters and integrating LLMs.

Is this a remote position at Upwork?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What is the salary or compensation for this role?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What does Upwork value in candidates for this role?

Upwork seeks candidates with demonstrated production ML expertise, deep knowledge of advanced AI models and architectures, and the ability to lead, mentor, innovate, and contribute externally to the AI/ML community.

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.

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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