Founding Engineering Manager

Founding Engineering ManagerLocation: San Francisco Bay, CA (with occasional travel to the UK)Shape the Future of Intelligent AutomationAn exciting opportunity has arisen for a Founding Engineering Manager to establish and lead the software engineering function for a rapidly growing deep-tech company as it launches its new US engineering hub in San Francisco.This is far more than a traditional engineering management role. As one of the founding technical leaders, you'll have the opportunity to build a high-performing team, influence engineering culture from day one, and help shape the architecture behind an advanced automation platform combining software, AI, and intelligent hardware.If you're passionate about building exceptional engineering teams while remaining hands-on technically, this is a rare opportunity to make a lasting impact.The RoleAs the Founding Engineering Manager, you'll lead the growth of the US software engineering team while partnering closely with an established engineering organisation in the UK.You'll remain involved in technical decision-making and architecture while mentoring engineers, driving delivery, and ensuring the platform continues to scale as the business expands internationally.Key ResponsibilitiesBuild, mentor and lead a high-performing team of software engineers.Define the technical vision and architecture for the platform.Remain hands-on through design reviews, code reviews and solving complex technical challenges.Drive engineering delivery, planning and execution across multiple workstreams.Collaborate closely with software, firmware, hardware, manufacturing and product teams.Help establish engineering processes, culture and best practices as the new US site grows.About YouYou'll be an experienced engineering leader who enjoys developing both technology and people.You'll bring:8+ years' experience in software engineering.Previous experience leading and growing engineering teams.Strong technical expertise in Python, C/C++ and/or Rust.Experience designing and delivering scalable production software.Strong architectural and systems design experience.Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.The ability to thrive within a fast-paced, scaling technology business.Desirable ExperienceExperience in one or more of the following would be advantageous:Robotics, Automation, Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL)Real-time systems, Instrument control, Scientific softwareManufacturing software, Distributed systemsBuilding or scaling engineering teamsWhy Join?Become one of the founding engineering leaders for a brand-new US engineering site.Build and shape a world-class software engineering team from the ground up.Work alongside multidisciplinary engineering teams developing cutting-edge intelligent automation technology.Enjoy genuine autonomy, technical ownership and the opportunity to influence engineering strategy.Join a well-funded, rapidly scaling deep-tech company with ambitious international growth plansIf you're excited by the opportunity to build a high-performing engineering organisation while remaining close to the technology, we'd love to hear from you.