Research Engineer - AI

Kadence is partnered with an exciting and innovative Quantum AI company in the Bay Area, working with cutting-edge technology and operating at the intersection of artificial intelligence and next-generation computing.

The Role

As a Research Engineer, you will act as a bridge between theoretical research and real-world implementation. You’ll partner with scientists and researchers to translate early-stage ideas into scalable, high-performance systems.

Your work will focus on building the tools, infrastructure, and optimized implementations that enable rapid experimentation and accelerate the pace of innovation across the team.

Location:

San Francisco Bay Area

Key Responsibilities

Research & Algorithm Enablement

* Translate research concepts and algorithms into efficient, production-quality code

* Build reusable components and libraries to support ongoing research efforts

* Develop frameworks that allow rapid prototyping and iteration of new ideas

* Contribute to benchmarking and evaluation methodologies for experimental approaches

Machine Learning Systems

* Design and implement training pipelines for advanced and hybrid ML models

* Optimize model performance across training and inference workflows

* Apply numerical methods and optimization techniques to support model development

* Enable reproducible experimentation with strong tracking and data management practices

Performance & Systems Engineering

* Develop high-performance computing solutions, particularly leveraging GPUs

* Improve efficiency, scalability, and reliability of compute-intensive workloads

* Support distributed systems and large-scale experimentation environments

* Build tools that connect high-level algorithms to underlying execution systems

What We’re Looking For

* Experience building shared infrastructure, frameworks, or tools used by technical teams

* Strong ability to interpret research papers and implement them effectively

* Solid understanding of performance optimization in compute-heavy systems

* Practical approach to software engineering, including testing and iteration

* Curiosity and interest in emerging areas of AI and advanced computing

Preferred Experience

* Proficiency with PyTorch, JAX, or similar ML frameworks

* Experience with GPU programming (e.g., CUDA or equivalent)

* Background in numerical computing, optimization, or scientific computing

* Familiarity with large-scale ML systems or research environments

* Strong foundation in mathematics (linear algebra, probability, algorithms)

* Exposure to compilers, low-level systems, or performance-critical infrastructure is a plus

Why Join

This role offers the opportunity to work on highly complex, forward-looking problems that push the boundaries of AI and computing. You’ll play a key role in enabling breakthroughs by turning ideas into systems that scale.

What’s Offered

* Competitive salary and equity package

* Comprehensive health and wellness benefits

* Flexible PTO and supportive work culture

* Visa sponsorship available where applicable

* Collaborative, mission-driven team environment

Comp

* $200,000 - $240,000 base, plus equity and benefits