Principal Software Engineer (AI)

TL;DR

Principal Software Engineer (AI): Lead AI adoption and tooling initiatives across a large engineering organization, driving transformation to AI-native engineering practices and implementing Virtual Engineer capabilities. Focus on strategic leadership, technical integration of AI tools, and measurable productivity gains.

Location: Hybrid, Oakland, California, United States

Salary: $235,733–$294,667 USD

Company

hirify.global builds data pipelines powering the modern data stack for thousands of companies, focusing on simplifying and automating data access.

What you will do

• Lead cultural transformation to AI-native engineering practices and drive adoption across 500+ engineers
• Evaluate, select, and integrate AI tools into development workflows and CI/CD pipelines
• Implement Virtual Engineer capabilities and optimize AI tool performance and cost-efficiency
• Develop and execute strategic AI adoption roadmap and manage a $1M+ tool budget
• Collaborate cross-functionally with leadership, security, legal, and program managers
• Communicate AI adoption impact and ROI to executives and stakeholders

Requirements

• Location: Hybrid position based in Oakland, California, United States
• 10+ years software engineering experience with multiple languages and paradigms
• Deep hands-on experience with AI-powered development tools and LLMs
• Proven leadership driving technical initiatives and change management in large engineering organizations
• Strong communication skills and experience presenting to C-level executives

Nice to have

• Background in developer productivity, platform engineering, or DevEx roles
• Experience with virtual agents/coding assistants in production
• Knowledge of AI/ML fundamentals and enterprise AI governance
• Experience in high-growth SaaS companies

Culture & Benefits

• 100% employer-paid medical insurance
• Generous paid time off, inclusive parental leave, holidays, and volunteer days
• RSU stock grants and professional development opportunities
• Company virtual events, free food, team-building activities, and monthly cell phone stipend
• Access to innovative mental health support platform