Forward Deployed Engineer

About the company

Chalk is creating the data infrastructure layer behind next-generation machine learning products. The company focuses on removing the usual bottlenecks around speed, scale, and system complexity so ML teams can build and ship more effectively. Its platform blends Rust-level performance with developer-friendly tooling, and it is already used by leading organizations for use cases such as fraud detection, identity verification, and improving clean energy output. The company has also recently secured a $50 million Series A round led by Felicis.

Role overview

This position is for a highly capable software engineer who can design tailored technical solutions and work alongside machine learning teams to strengthen Chalk’s proprietary infrastructure. You will partner directly with customers to build efficient feature pipelines across domains such as healthcare, finance, and recommendation engines. The role involves close collaboration with clients to understand requirements and create systems that support applications like cancer detection, fraud prevention, and product recommendations. It is an in-person opportunity to join as an early employee and contribute meaningfully in a fast-growing startup environment.

What you will do

• Develop and deploy Chalk’s technology for customers and prospective clients, adapting the platform to fit a variety of technical environments.
• Work in close coordination with the Engineering and Sales functions.
• Serve as the main technical contact during both pre-sales and post-sales stages, including customer onboarding and ongoing support.
• Suggest relevant product additions as customer needs and business priorities change.
• Contribute to hiring by participating in interviews and helping strengthen the engineering organization.

What the company is looking for

• A strong technical foundation, including experience building software or machine learning models.
• At least 4 years of professional experience in backend software engineering.
• Solid working knowledge of Python and SQL.
• Proven ability to collaborate across technical and non-technical teams.
• Strong communication, analytical thinking, problem-solving, and storytelling skills.
• Experience working with customers and sales teams is advantageous.
• A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or an equivalent qualification.

Bonus experience

• Exposure to ML-focused products or data services.
• Familiarity with MLOps or machine learning infrastructure.
• Prior experience in a forward-deployed engineering role at a high-growth ML startup.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options.
• Commuter benefits.
• Access to expert healthcare guidance.
• Retirement savings support.
• 15 days of paid time off plus 14 company holidays annually.
• Paid parental leave.
• Daily lunch and dinner provided.
• Fully stocked office with drinks and snacks.
• Dinner covered for late workdays.
• Ride-home support through Uber or Lyft when staying late.
• Team-building events and happy hours.

Compensation

Early team members receive a competitive salary and equity package, with total compensation determined by experience and other factors such as market conditions, location, role scope, and qualifications assessed during the interview process.

Inclusivity

Chalk is an equal opportunity employer. The company values diversity and inclusion and offers reasonable accommodations for candidates who need individualized support.