AI Engineer
Makai Labs · Raleigh, NC · 1 mo ago
RemoteRemoteEngineering$115k–$130k/yrContract
Who We Are Makai Labs builds software that automates entire companies. We work across a diversified portfolio, which means our systems touch a wide range of domains, processes, and operational constraints. Our engineering team is small, senior, and high-output. We move fast, hold high standards, and trust each other to take ownership without being managed. What We're Looking For Makai Labs is hiring a AI Engineer to help build AI systems for enterprise automation. This is a hands-on builder role where you’ll work closely with our engineering and design teams to prototype, ship, and improve AI-powered products and internal tools. You’ll have the opportunity to own smaller projects end to end while contributing to larger client and platform initiatives. Responsibilities Will Include Build and improve AI-powered applications and internal toolsRapidly prototype, experiment, and iterate across client and internal projectsImplement workflows that use LLMs, retrieval systems, agents, and structured outputsContribute to shared platform work and reusable toolingTurn prototypes into reliable, client-ready systemsConduct research, benchmarking, testing, and evaluation of new approachesOwn smaller projects or sub-projects with guidance from the teamTake ownership of deliverables and help deliver work that meets client needsWrite and maintain clear internal documentation Ideal Experience Senior in college, recent graduate, or early-career engineerBackground in computer science (bonus if you also have business exposure)Experience building AI applications through internships, coursework, research, or personal projectsExperience running AI experiments and iterating quicklyStrong Python skills What We Value Initiative and willingness to learn quickly on the jobBias toward action and comfort with fast iterationInterest in staying current with AI advancements and applying them in practical systemsWants to solve hard problems Nice To Haves Experience with APIs, backend services, or workflow automationFamiliarity with FastAPI, Flask, or similar backend frameworksFamiliarity with React and TypeScriptFamiliarity with Docker and local development environmentsFamiliarity with testing in Python or TypeScriptExperience working with retrieval systems, embeddings, or searchExperience working with OCR, document processing, or PDF workflowsExperience with fine-tuning, benchmarking, or serving LLMsExperience in fast-paced, high-accountability team settings Core values for Makai employees Have a strong work ethicBe self-sufficient and self-driven with an ownership mentality, no matter your roleBe a flexible thinkerBe congenial and a team playerAlways be of service to each other and our clients, partners, and neighbors Benefits Fully remote role, Eastern time zoneOpportunities to work in-person with local colleaguesGenerous PTOFull health insurance premium reimbursement401(k) matchingCareer growth & development opportunities Compensation Range: $115K - $130K