Senior Staff ML Engineer at Grindr

Palo Alto, California, United States

Grindr Logo
$239,500 – $281,500Compensation
Senior (5 to 8 years), Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Technology, Social NetworkingIndustries

Requirements

  • 10+ years of experience building ML systems with a focus on 0-to-1 system development, platform-scale architecture, and creating new capabilities from scratch
  • Experience with recommendation systems or similar is a plus
  • Proven ability to deliver at scale, with fluency in Python and popular ML frameworks
  • A scrappy mindset—you tackle messy challenges head-on and get real results
  • Experience using data and deployment technologies (Snowflake, Airflow, Kubernetes, Docker, Helm, Spark, PySpark)
  • Experience building machine/deep learning models with at least one common framework such as PyTorch, Tensorflow, or Keras
  • Experience with any public cloud environment - AWS, GCP or Databricks
  • Expertise in building and maintaining LLM workflows for nuanced, human-driven tasks (preferred)
  • A track record of leading the development of recommendation platforms that hit the mark for diverse user needs (preferred)
  • Thrives in a fast-paced, outcome-driven environment with lots of cross-functional collaboration (preferred)
  • A proven history of setting technical direction, driving adoption of ML systems across organizations, and owning products end-to-end from early-stage concept to full-scale rollout (preferred)

Responsibilities

  • Architect and oversee large-scale recommendation systems to serve millions, balancing performance and innovation
  • Leverage the latest LLMs to process vast conversation data and enhance user connections
  • Prototype, iterate, and ship production-ready ML solutions that solve real problems for our users
  • Provide technical leadership across teams, collaborating with engineering, data science and product teams to turn bold ideas into tangible results
  • Evaluate, influence, and integrate emerging AI tools and techniques at an organizational level to keep Grindr’s tech stack ahead of the curve
  • Chart the roadmap and build foundational systems for long-term ML strategy
  • Architect and scale recommendation platforms that match millions to their next big moment, adapting to a range of intents

Skills

Machine Learning
Recommendation Systems
LLMs
Conversational AI
Scalable ML Systems
ML Prototyping
Technical Leadership
AI Strategy

Grindr

Social networking app for LGBTQ individuals

About Grindr

Grindr connects gay, bi, trans, and queer individuals through a social networking app that uses location-based technology. Launched in 2009, it serves millions of users worldwide, providing a platform for social interaction, dating, and networking specifically for the LGBTQ community. Unlike other dating apps, Grindr focuses solely on this demographic, creating a safe and inclusive environment. The app generates revenue through advertisements, premium subscriptions like Grindr Unlimited, and in-app purchases, allowing users to enhance their experience. Beyond dating, Grindr engages with social issues and offers resources related to sexual health and safety, aiming to expand its influence within the community.

Los Angeles, CaliforniaHeadquarters
2009Year Founded
$90.5MTotal Funding
IPOCompany Stage
Consumer Software, Social ImpactIndustries
201-500Employees

Benefits

Family Insurance
401(k) Retirement Plan
401(k) Company Match
Unlimited Paid Time Off
Phone/Internet Stipend
Wellness Program
Family Planning Benefits
Performance Bonus
Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Risks

Union-busting allegations could harm Grindr's reputation and employee relations.
The AI 'wingman' bot may raise privacy concerns among users.
Involvement in Canberra's homophobic assault investigation could lead to negative publicity.

Differentiation

Grindr focuses exclusively on the LGBTQ community, offering a unique social networking platform.
The app leverages location-based technology to connect users globally, enhancing user engagement.
Grindr for Equality engages users in social issues, expanding its influence beyond dating.

Upsides

Grindr's AI 'wingman' bot aligns with the trend of AI-driven personalization in dating apps.
The partnership with Meridian enhances user safety, aligning with the trend of safety features.
Grindr's expansion into health services aligns with the trend of apps offering wellness features.

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