Applied AI & Optimization Engineer

Who We Are Firestorm is building the next generation of uncrewed aircraft and the advanced manufacturing systems that deliver them at speed. The Software Integration & Operations department owns the software layer that spans factory floor to cloud - the applications, automation, edge systems, and intelligence that make it possible to iterate product designs, automate advanced manufacturing, and scale production with uncompromising quality and rigor. Firestorm's manufacturing platform has an intelligence layer - a planning workbench, a simulation engine, an analytics surface, and eventually an AI assistant - that turns operational data into better decisions. Building this layer requires applied math, pragmatic ML systems engineering, and a deep understanding of the manufacturing domain it serves. As an Applied AI & Optimization Engineer, you will own the algorithms and systems behind this intelligence layer. Near-term, your focus is the planning workbench and simulation engine: optimization algorithms for work order scheduling, resource allocation, and conflict resolution. Longer-term, you will lead integration of open-source and custom LLMs into the platform's AI assistant - including air-gapped and on-edge deployments for DoD contexts. What You'll Do Own the optimization algorithms behind the planning workbench and simulation engine - scheduling, resource allocation, constraint satisfaction, conflict detection. Design and implement the analytics layer of the platform: defect trends, yield analytics, throughput modeling, and operational intelligence. Lead the platform's AI assistant integration: selecting, evaluating, deploying, and fine-tuning open-source or custom LLMs for cloud, air-gapped, and on-edge contexts. Productionize optimization and ML systems in partnership with full-stack and infrastructure engineers - reliable services the platform depends on, not prototypes. Partner with domain experts in manufacturing engineering, quality, and planning to ground models and algorithms in real operational constraints. Evaluate and advocate for build-vs-buy decisions across optimization libraries, ML tooling, and model vendors. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent practical experience) U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations 5+ years of engineering experience with substantial applied optimization, operations research, or ML systems work. Deep proficiency in Python; fluency with at least one optimization framework - MILP solvers, constraint solvers, OR-Tools, or equivalent. Track record of productionizing algorithmic systems - you have shipped optimization or ML into real users' hands, not just research artifacts. Strong applied math foundation: combinatorial optimization, heuristics, or statistical modeling relevant to scheduling and resource allocation problems. Demonstrated ability to partner with domain experts and translate operational constraints into model formulations. Demonstrated history of holding yourself and your teammates to a high standard, even when it creates discomfort. Preferred Qualifications Prior experience building scheduling, planning, or resource allocation systems for manufacturing, logistics, or similar domains. Hands-on experience deploying or fine-tuning open-source LLMs (Llama, Mistral, or similar) for constrained environments. Background with air-gapped or on-edge model deployment. Familiarity with discrete-event simulation or agent-based modeling. Prior experience in defense, aerospace, or regulated industry applications. Work Environment Remote (U.S.) with the option to be based at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA. We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate Willingness to travel up to 10% domestically for testing and demonstrations Compensation US Salary Range: $140,000 - $185,000 USD The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve. Benefits & Perks Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation: We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals Equity grants for new hires Unlimited PTO Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December Generous Parental Leave Lifestyle Spending Account FSA DCFSA HSA Hospital Indemnity insurance Critical Illness insurance Accident insurance Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well Export Control Compliance To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce. Equal Opportunity Statement Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected] so we can provide the support you need. Compensation The base pay range for this role is $140,000 – $185,000 per year.