> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/4558502-staff-software-engineer-ai-tooling](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/4558502-staff-software-engineer-ai-tooling). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md).

---

# Staff Software Engineer, AI Tooling

- **Company:** Vast, Inc
- **Location:** Long Beach, CA, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $159,900.0 - $226,900.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, Software Design Patterns, High-Level Architecture, Python (Programming Language), Machine Learning, Open Source Technology, Svelte, Azure Machine Learning, Software Deployment, Software Engineering, Systems Integration, TypeScript, Retrieval-Augmented Generation, Large Language Models, Prompt Engineering, Backend, Containerization, AI Platforms, Kubernetes, Information Technology, Front End Software Development, Model Context Protocol, Data Pipelines, Docker
- **Published:** November 4, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.careerbuilder.com/job-details/staff-software-engineer-ai-tooling-long-beach-ca--da155795-3838-40ed-bf32-606765037f2e

## About the Role

Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Tool, Government, Product Demonstration, Manufacturing, Space Operations, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Tool, * Bachelor's degree in computer science, math, an engineering discipline, or equivalent work experience

 * 8+ years of software development or relevant industry experience
 * Proven track record of leading technical initiatives from concept through production deployment
 * Strong full-stack development proficiency with experience across both frontend and backend systems
 * Deep understanding of AI/ML concepts, large language model architectures, prompt engineering, and modern AI tooling patterns
 * Demonstrated experience implementing and maintaining production applications at scale
 * Experience establishing engineering best practices and providing technical mentorship
 * Strong cross-functional communication skills with the ability to translate technical concepts for diverse audiences

Preferred Skills & Experience:

 * Experience with Python and TypeScript in production environments
 * Experience with Svelte or SvelteKit
 * Experience with OpenWebUI or similar open-source AI interface platforms
 * Experience building or integrating MCP (Model Context Protocol) servers and gateways
 * Experience with LLM API integration and AI pipeline development
 * Experience with containerization and deployment (Docker, Kubernetes)
 * Familiarity with RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) patterns and vector databases
 * Experience building or leading AI/ML platforms at scale
 * Prior experience as a tech lead or in a similar engineering leadership role
 * Experience working in fast-paced, ambiguous environments with evolving requirements

Additional Requirements:

 * Ability to travel up to 10% of the time
 * Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends to support critical mission milestones
 * Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted
 * Specific certifications, as appropriate

## Description

* Define the technical direction and long-term roadmap for Vast's internal AI platforms and tooling
 * Architect and lead the development of full-stack AI applications that serve diverse use-cases across the company
 * Establish engineering best practices, design patterns, and quality standards for AI systems development
 * Build and maintain production-grade integrations connecting AI models with internal tools, data sources, and workflows
 * Design and implement pipelines for AI response enforcement, content safety, and output formatting
 * Drive the evaluation and adoption of emerging AI frameworks, models, and patterns to continuously improve internal tooling
 * Collaborate cross-functionally with IT Infrastructure, security, and business stakeholders to integrate AI tooling with existing systems
 * Mentor and guide other engineers contributing to AI initiatives, fostering a culture of technical excellence
 * Ensure the reliability, observability, and scalability of production AI systems
 * Rapidly iterate on AI tooling as the technology landscape and company needs evolve