Software Engineer (Platform Security AI)

TL;DR

Software Engineer (Platform Security AI): Build AI-driven security tools and agents to protect Kubernetes-based infrastructure and secure AI systems with an accent on vulnerability analysis, scalable backend architecture, and secure engineering practices. Focus on designing and implementing AI-powered security solutions, driving technical decisions, and championing security across the organization.

Location: Onsite in Palo Alto, CA, United States

Salary: $180,000 - $340,000 USD annually

Company

xAI is a mission-driven AI startup focused on creating AI systems that understand the universe and aid humanity, emphasizing engineering excellence and a flat organizational structure.

What you will do

• Design and build AI-driven security tooling and agents to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in platform infrastructure and applications.
• Proactively identify security problems and own end-to-end design and implementation.
• Collaborate across teams and act as a security champion driving technical decisions.

Requirements

• Must have 3+ years experience in fast-paced, high-impact environments, preferably startups or tech companies.
• Expertise in Python, Rust, or Go with strong problem-solving and clean coding skills.
• Experience building scalable backend architectures and security tools from scratch.
• Familiarity with security testing frameworks and container technologies like Docker and Kubernetes.
• Knowledge of software supply chain security including SBOM management and dependency scanning.
• Location: Must be onsite in Palo Alto, CA, USA.

Nice to have

• Experience developing AI-driven security tools or integrating AI into security workflows.
• Proven ability to influence security practices and drive technical decisions across teams.
• Strong collaboration skills and adaptability in fast-paced environments.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage.
• Equity and 401(k) retirement plan access.
• Short & long-term disability and life insurance.
• Flat organizational structure with leadership based on initiative and delivery.
• Supportive, mission-driven, and collaborative work environment.