Forward Deployed AI

Location: Northern California Experience: Not specified Job Type: Permanent Compensation: $220K - $240K
### Top Skills & Technologies Forward Deployed Engineering | Python | JavaScript | Ruby | REST APIs | Applied AI | Machine Learning
### Job Summary Thinking Minds' client is seeking a Forward Deployed Engineer to connect strategic customer needs with applied AI innovation. You will work directly with customers and partner with Engineering, Product, R&D, and Go-to-Market teams to design and deliver solutions that improve customer support operations.

This role combines hands-on software development, technical discovery, and product influence, with a focus on measurable business outcomes in complex environments.
### Ideal Candidate Should Have
Strong ownership, curiosity, and the ability to turn ambiguous business challenges into practical technical solutions. A customer-focused engineering approach and confidence collaborating directly with technical teams. The ability to explain architectural trade-offs and limitations clearly to engineering and non-technical audiences.

Interest in learning unfamiliar AI capabilities and applying them thoughtfully to real operational needs.
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Key Responsibilities
Embed with strategic customers to understand business challenges, technical requirements, and opportunities to automate and scale support operations. Prototype, code alongside customer engineers, and ship reliable solutions that advance business goals. Build integrations using REST APIs, helping customer systems work together effectively. Partner with Sales, Success, and Product teams to support adoption, coordinate delivery, and translate customer feedback into actionable product improvements.

Influence roadmap discussions through practical insights from customer engagements. Document implementation patterns and share best practices to strengthen the Forward Deployed Engineering function.
### Required Qualifications
Strong engineering experience building software used in real-world environments. Deep knowledge of a high-level programming language, such as JavaScript, Python, or Ruby. Proficiency using and writing REST APIs for system integration. Ability to prototype and deliver software quickly while maintaining quality and business relevance.

Strong cross-functional collaboration and communication skills. Willingness to travel and work on-site with customers.
###

Preferred Qualifications
Experience building SaaS products.
Familiarity with AI and machine learning architectures, capabilities, and limitations.
Experience with enterprise CRM ecosystems such as Salesforce, relevant to understanding customer workflows and integration needs.
Experience translating customer discoveries into reusable engineering practices and product recommendations.
Thinking Minds' client offers ownership, cross-functional collaboration, and the opportunity to shape applied AI solutions with meaningful customer impact.