Principal AI Engineer
Phizenix is seeking a Principal AI Engineer to lead the design, development, and governance of AI/ML engineering across a diverse portfolio of products. This role combines hands-on engineering with technical leadership, requiring expertise in software engineering, data science, platform architecture, and AI governance. The position is based in Midtown Manhattan, New York City, and operates within a hybrid work model, with travel requirements varying based on client needs and team dynamics.
In this role, the Principal AI Engineer will be responsible for creating and maintaining the firm's AI productization and governance playbook, which includes defining service patterns, security and compliance standards, model evaluation criteria, and production-readiness benchmarks. The engineer will also develop and manage internal tools such as AI service scaffolding, evaluation and monitoring tools, and data infrastructure, ensuring they are user-friendly and require minimal ongoing support. Collaboration with Security, Legal, and Compliance teams is essential to establish AI controls aligned with SOC2/ISO standards, define vendor Data Processing Agreement requirements, and implement data classification policies. Additionally, the role involves standardizing deployment patterns using containerization, infrastructure-as-code, and CI/CD pipeline templates that can be adopted across various teams.
Candidates should have over 15 years of experience in software engineering, data science, or a closely related technical field, with a strong background in AI/ML frameworks and the Python ecosystem. Hands-on experience deploying models to public cloud infrastructure is essential, as is a proven track record in designing and operating multi-tenant AI services and integrating large language models (LLMs) into production environments. Expertise in microservices architecture, including decomposing monolithic systems, defining service contracts, and implementing CI/CD for distributed systems, is required. Proficiency in containerization (Docker), infrastructure-as-code (Terraform), and modern DevOps practices is also necessary. Experience with AI/LLM security, including prompt injection, data boundary enforcement, model supply chain risk, and AI-specific threat modeling, is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, excellent written and verbal communication abilities, and experience with Agile methodologies and cross-functional product team collaboration are also important.
The compensation for this role is competitive, with a salary range of $180,000 to $260,000 per year. Phizenix offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. The company fosters a culture of authenticity, growth, and equity, providing employees with the flexibility to balance work and personal life through its hybrid work model. Travel requirements are project-dependent, and relocation assistance is not available for this position.
Phizenix is a mission-driven company focused on delivering AI solutions that empower businesses and communities. The company values technical leadership and engineer-driven outcomes, offering opportunities for hands-on involvement in building AI solutions for clients. With offices in Livermore, California, and Bengaluru, India, Phizenix provides a dynamic and inclusive environment for professionals seeking to make a significant impact in the AI industry.