Forward Deployed AI Engineering Manager

Job Summary
Location: United States
Experience: 5+ years in production AI/data systems
Job Type: Permanent
Thinking Minds' client is looking for an experienced Manager, Forward Deployed Engineering to build and lead their Forward Deployed Engineering (FDE) function within the Data-as-a-Service (DaaS) organization. This role is crucial for ensuring high-quality dataset production at scale. The successful candidate will lead a team responsible for the technical execution layer of DaaS delivery, focusing on AI data lifecycle and ML-assisted workflows.

Ideal Candidate Should Have
AI data lifecycle experience
ML-assisted workflows expertise
Experience with human-in-the-loop (HITL) data generation
Strong leadership and team-building skills
Proven track record in technical execution
Role Overview
The role involves leading a team of engineers across the full AI data lifecycle, designing evaluation systems, and building ML-assisted workflows. The manager will define the strategy and architecture of data pipelines, ensuring high-quality execution across all DaaS projects.

This position operates at the intersection of data engineering, ML engineering, and production operations, driving the evolution of technical delivery capabilities.

Key Responsibilities
Build and lead the Forward Deployed Engineering function
Define the team's operating model and technical roadmap
Hire, mentor, and develop a high-performing team
Foster strong ownership and accountability
Collaborate with Delivery, Engineering, and Research teams
Ensure consistent, high-quality execution across DaaS projects
Top Skills and Modules
AI data lifecycle
ML-assisted workflows
Human-in-the-loop (HITL) data generation
Data engineering
ML engineering
Production operations
Leadership and team development