AI-Native Software Engineer (AI-First Development Operator)

Engagement Type:
Full-Time (W2 Preferred) / Contract Considered
Location:
Orange County, CA (On-Site Required)
Time Commitment:
Full-Time
Compensation:
:$85,000 annually (DOE)
We are seeking an
AI-native software engineer
to help us transition to an
AI-first development model
during a critical phase of our business.
This role is focused on
speed, execution, and system-building
, not traditional development cycles. You will be responsible for translating business requirements into working software quickly using modern AI tools.
This is not a traditional engineering role, a purely legacy maintenance role, or a large-team environment. It is a
hands-on, high-accountability role
where the ability to
build, adapt, and deliver quickly using AI
is essential.
What You Will Be Responsible For
**AI-Driven Development & Rapid Execution**

• Build and deploy features using AI-assisted tools (Gemini, Cursor, etc.)
• Translate business needs into working applications within hours or days
• Reduce reliance on traditional spec → dev → QA workflows

**System Stability & Technical Ownership**

• Maintain and debug existing systems (Python, PHP, Java, React)
• Use AI-assisted diagnostics to resolve issues quickly
• Ensure uptime and continuity of core systems

**Code Quality & Technical Oversight**

• Review and validate all code (human and AI-generated)
• Ensure production-quality output and system integrity
• Prevent technical debt and security risks

**External Developer Management**

• Vet and evaluate external developers (Upwork / contractors)
• Break down work into structured tasks
• Review deliverables and ensure quality before deployment

**AI Workflow Optimization**

• Continuously improve how AI is used across development
• Build repeatable workflows and automation patterns
• Drive efficiency and scalability in engineering output

**What This Role Is Not**

• Not a traditional multi-month development cycle role
• Not a purely legacy maintenance or support position
• Not an environment for slow iteration or heavy process

This role is designed for
high-speed execution using AI tools
, where output and impact matter more than process.
Requirements
**Ideal Profile**

• Experience building or shipping applications using AI-assisted development tools
• Strong understanding of web applications, APIs, and cloud-based systems
• Ability to learn and implement new technologies rapidly using AI
• Comfortable working in fast-moving, high-accountability environments
• Self-directed, execution-focused, and outcome-driven

**Strongly Preferred**

• Experience with tools such as Gemini, Cursor, Firebase, or Vertex AI
• Familiarity with Google Cloud Platform or modern cloud environments
• Experience reviewing or managing other developers' work
• Background in building prototypes, automations, or rapid MVPs

**Working Model**

• W2 employment preferred (California compliance)
• Contract (1099) may be considered based on structure and candidate fit
• On-site role based in Orange County, CA
• Direct collaboration with executive leadership and engineering leads

**Who Will Thrive in This Role**

• Engineers who think AI-first, not code-first
• Builders who prefer shipping solutions over writing specifications
• Individuals who move quickly and take ownership of outcomes
• People comfortable working in a high-urgency, execution-driven environment

**Why This Role Is Different**
We are building toward an
AI-first development model
, where:

• Features are built in hours, not weeks
• AI replaces traditional development bottlenecks
• Small teams produce high-output systems

This role is central to that transition.
Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)