Senior Staff ML Engineer at Grindr

Palo Alto, California, United States

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$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

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Machine LearningRecommendation SystemsLLMsConversational AIScalable ML SystemsML PrototypingTechnical LeadershipAI Strategy

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the salary range for the Senior Staff ML Engineer position?

The salary range is $239.5K - $281.5K.

Is this role remote or hybrid, and what are the office requirements?

This is a hybrid role based in Palo Alto or San Francisco offices, requiring you to be in office Tuesdays and Thursdays.

What skills and experience are required for this role?

Candidates need 10+ years building ML systems with 0-to-1 development and platform-scale architecture, fluency in Python and ML frameworks like PyTorch or Tensorflow, experience with data tools like Snowflake, Airflow, Kubernetes, Spark, and public cloud environments.

What is the work environment like at Grindr for this role?

It's a fast-paced, outcome-driven environment with high-impact greenfield ML work, cross-functional collaboration across engineering, data science, and product teams, and a scrappy mindset for tackling challenges.

What makes a strong candidate for this Senior Staff ML Engineer role?

Strong candidates have 10+ years in ML system development from scratch at scale, expertise in recommendation systems or LLMs, and a proven track record of technical leadership and cross-functional collaboration.

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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