We are looking for a VP of Engineering to take over from the CEO to lead and grow our globally distributed engineering teams. In this pivotal role, you will helm the management of both backend, infra, deep learning, embedded, and frontend engineering groups, who are the architects and custodians of our advanced retail AI solutions. Your mission involves more than just overseeing teams; it's about nurturing a culture of innovation excellence, driving down COGS, shortening latencies, and scaling our system to support millions of deployed cameras around the world. You will be at the forefront of developing strategies and implementing processes that ensure our engineering teams operate at the peak of efficiency and creativity. As the ideal candidate, you embody the spirit of a proactive self-starter, thriving on taking full ownership of your domain. Your expertise is not just in managing, but in rolling up your sleeves and actually solving these massively difficult scaling challenges at lower and lower price points. Your role is critical in shaping the future of our AI solutions, ensuring they remain at the cutting edge of technology and customer satisfaction. We seek a leader who is not only technically proficient in distributed systems, but also possesses the interpersonal skills to build and sustain high-performing teams. Your vision and leadership will be the driving force behind our engineering excellence, propelling our company to new heights in the ever-evolving landscape of AI technology.What you will do Manage a team of engineers to ensure our technical infrastructure from backend to frontend is developed and maintained to the highest standardHelp to build processes and tools that help create an outstanding developer experience for our engineering teamsOversee the development of scalable data heavy backend infrastructure using Python, FastAPI, Kafka and moreCollaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of backend infrastructure with frontend UIsSet clear objectives, performance expectations, and development goals for your team, and provide regular feedback and coachingRecruit, hire and onboard new team members as neededFoster positive team environment encouraging creativity, innovation and continuous improvement What you need to be successful Advanced degree in Computer Science or related field10+ years of experience in distributed systems10+ years of experience in software development5+ years of experience leading top-tier engineering teamsStrong experience in Python, experience in React is desirableStrong experience in deploying and maintaining scalable data heavy infrastructureUnderstanding of AI and machine learning techniques and tools is desirableStrong communication and collaboration skills; fluent in EnglishProven ability to lead, motivate and develop a high-performing teamUnwavering commitment ourWhy Focal SystemsStrong We are a tightly-knit team with an ambitious mission and a strong set of core values, which define our approach to business and have successfully guided us since inception.Exceptional TeamWe are a team of hard-working, fun-loving professionals from some of the most eminent universities, research labs, and tech companies of our time. We pride ourselves on recruiting exceptional individuals to help us redefine the state-of-the-art.Outstanding PartnersWe work with 10+ of the largest retailers in the world and have a world-class roster of investors, advisors and partners to support & advise us in our endeavors. What we offerWe care deeply about the health, happiness, and wellbeing of all of our employees. We offer: Competitive salary and attractive stock optionsPaid time off & sick leaveTeam retreatsEducation grantsBenefitsCompetitive salaryHealth InsuranceCatered lunchesPaid Time OffQuarterly Team RetreatsEducation grantsMeaningful equity-grants in a very fast growing startup that is aiming for an IPO#J-18808-Ljbffr