Clera is a talent-matching platform that replaces traditional job applications by connecting candidates and hiring teams through curated introductions.
ABOUT THE ROLE Join an early-stage, venture-backed AI startup reimagining computer-aided engineering (CAE) for the AI era. As an AI/ML Engineer, you'll shape the future of engineering automation by building AI that thinks like an engineer — designing, training, and deploying models that accelerate simulation, improve accuracy, and unlock entirely new ways of exploring the design space. From adaptive solvers and reduced-order modeling to generative design and real-time validation, your work will push the boundaries of what CAE can achieve. You'll collaborate closely with experts in applied AI and mechanical engineering, integrating machine learning directly into high-fidelity simulation pipelines to help customers iterate faster, diagnose failures earlier, and bring better products to market. This is a rare opportunity to join early and make a foundational impact. WHAT YOU'LL DO - Research, design, and develop AI/ML algorithms to tackle complex challenges in simulation, design automation, and computer-aided engineering. - Build scalable AI solutions and collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate models seamlessly into existing CAE workflows and infrastructure. - Lead performance improvements — from optimizing model accuracy to analyzing outputs and addressing system-level bottlenecks. - Guide AI/ML projects from research through to production deployment. - Contribute to MLOps practices and help build robust, end-to-end AI/ML systems. WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR Required: - 4+ years of experience developing and deploying AI/ML models with a proven track record of delivering impact in applied engineering or scientific domains. - 2+ years of technical leadership guiding AI/ML projects from research to production. - Proficiency in Python and modern AI/ML frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, JAX, TensorFlow). - Experience with AI/ML algorithms for sequential, spatial, or physics-informed data (e.g., time series, mesh data, or simulation outputs). - Familiarity with MLOps practices and building AI/ML systems end-to-end, from prototyping to scalable deployment. - Strong understanding of engineering principles in simulation, modeling, and optimization. - Bachelor's or advanced degree in Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. Nice to Have: - Experience with CAE, CAD, and/or PLM tools (e.g., Ansys, Abaqus, COMSOL, SolidWorks, NX). - Experience in a fast-paced startup environment. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS - Salary: $150,000 – $250,000 USD annually - Visa sponsorship available LOCATION On-site in San Francisco, CA, United States. Candidates must be available to work from the San Francisco office.