Datadog For Startups Founding Engineering Lead (SaaS)

TL;DR

Founding Engineering Lead (SaaS): Leading the technical motion of the Datadog for Startups program by driving discovery, onboarding, and forward-deployed engineering projects with an accent on observability, AI/ML, and infrastructure scaling. Focus on building strategic relationships with startup CTOs, designing tailored technical solutions, and automating internal workflows to accelerate startup adoption.

Location: Hybrid in San Francisco, CA (Must be based in San Francisco)

Salary: $205,000 — $240,000 USD

Company

Datadog provides observability and security platforms to help companies monitor their infrastructure and applications.

What you will do

• Run discovery calls with startup CTOs and engineering leads to identify technical needs and position Datadog against competitors.
• Deliver tailored demos and facilitate technical onboarding, specifically for AI/ML observability and infrastructure scaling.
• Lead forward-deployed engineering (FDE) projects embedded with client teams to translate workflows into product adoption.
• Develop automation to improve internal team workflows, including outreach, reporting, and application processes.
• Represent Datadog for Startups at accelerators, hackathons, and founder events across San Francisco.
• Build a network within the SF startup ecosystem and create thought leadership content for technical founders.

Requirements

• 5-7+ years of experience in solutions architecture, pre-sales engineering, or technical consulting within SaaS or cloud companies.
• Broad fluency across cloud infrastructure, containers, Kubernetes, CI/CD, and modern application frameworks.
• Must be based in San Francisco and actively engaged in the local tech/startup community.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to lead technical discussions and demos for CTOs and founders.
• Adaptability to thrive in ambiguity within a small, lean team environment.
• Startup experience (as a founder, early-stage engineer, or advisor) is strongly preferred.

Nice to have

• Personal interest and hands-on experience with AI tools such as Claude, ChatGPT, Codex, or Cursor.
• Knowledge of agentic workflows, vibe coding, and codegen.

Culture & Benefits

• Equity package including new hire RSUs and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).
• Comprehensive health, dental, parental planning, and global mental health benefits.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Continuous professional development, product training, and a mentor/buddy program.
• Inclusive company culture with Community Guilds and a focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.