Founding Engineer (AI Startup) (4CA10E8)

Some engineers enjoy writing code. Others can't stop building.If you've been programming since you were a teenager, spend your evenings experimenting with new technology, and get genuine satisfaction from shipping products, this role was written for you.Referment is partnering with a venture-backed AI startup looking for one exceptional engineer to help build the next generation of AI-powered cybersecurity products.You'll work directly with the founders and own features from customer problem through to production.You'll enjoy this role if you...Love building more than talking about buildingPrefer shipping software over writing documentationCan move between backend, frontend and infrastructure without thinking twiceGet excited by hard engineering challenges like building compilers, DSLs, or internal developer toolsUse AI every day, but don't rely on it to think for youEnjoy solving messy customer problems instead of perfectly defined ticketsIdentify as a natural builder with complex side projects like developing programming languages or agentic engines from scratchWhat You'll Be BuildingRather than owning a small corner of a huge codebase, you'll own products end-to-endYou'll design complex backend architecture and systems.Ship React interfaces.Build internal developer tools, agentic consoles, and custom runner systems.Improve databases and handle systems programming.Debug production and deploy continuously.Help shape both the product and the engineering culture.What We're Looking ForDeep technical focus on hard engineering and complex backend architecture rather than just feature deliveryStrong Python backend fundamentals with high-level application of tools like FastAPI, Django, or Flask to build DSLs or agentic infrastructureSenior-level technical sophistication and the ability to move beyond routine maintenance tasksVerifiable track record of technical contributions and honest project claims, such as an active GitHub or OSS presence where you are a primary maintainer or frequent contributorReact experience or willingness to work across the frontendStartup mentality with genuine product ownershipAround 3-6 years' experience with a focus on engineering depthExtra points for experience with:Founding or leadership roles (e.g. Co-Founder, CTO, or Founding Engineer)Building internal developer tools, agentic consoles, DSLs, or compilersMulti-language proficiency in systems languages like Go, C, or RustCybersecurityWorkflow orchestration (Prefect, Airflow)High-growth SaaSThis probably isn't for you if...Your focus is primarily on product management or innovation titles rather than hands-on engineeringYou consider routine infrastructure maintenance, such as managing Linux servers, to be your core focus areaYou need detailed specs before starting workYou only enjoy one part of the stackYou avoid production responsibilityYou're looking for a comfortable corporate engineering roleYou're currently splitting your attention with another startupWhy join?Competitive salaryMeaningful equityOne of the first engineering hiresDirect access to the foundersHuge ownership from day oneBuild products that customers actually use#Referment