Principal Engineer - Python/React - AI-Native PaaS - Berlin - 140k

Join a fast-moving startup that’s not just riding the wave of AI innovation—but helping shape it from the ground up. My client are an independent, self-funded company with a strong client base that includes major players in telecom, government, and healthcare. Our mission is to make advanced AI tools accessible to organizations of all sizes through a powerful, end-to-end platform. We build widely respected LLMs for the German-speaking market and actively contribute to open-source initiatives in the AI community. You’ll work side-by-side with the founding team, where fresh ideas and unconventional thinking are welcomed—and rewarded.

We’re not looking for a perfect CV—we’re looking for curious minds, passionate builders, and forward-thinkers who want to drive real change with technology.

What You’ll Do

You’ll take on a key leadership position in the development of our AI platform. Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading the technical strategy and architecture of a highly scalable SaaS product.
• Designing distributed systems for both cloud and on-premise environments.
• Guiding and mentoring the engineering team while staying hands-on with the codebase.
• Defining best practices and development processes across the team.
• Creating a forward-looking tech roadmap that balances innovation with practical needs.
• Conducting thorough code reviews and supporting team development.
• Building and integrating AI agents to support and automate parts of the software lifecycle.
• Working closely with product and leadership teams to translate vision into reality.

What You Bring

• 5+ years of experience in building and scaling complex software platforms, ideally in a SaaS and/or startup setting.
• Deep familiarity with modern frontend (TypeScript, React, Next.js) and backend (Python) stacks.
• Ideally prior AI experience, in the field of LLMs and LLMOps.
• Experience supporting hybrid deployment models (cloud + on-prem).
• Solid grasp of DevOps workflows, containerization, and ideally MLOps.
• A track record of leading engineering teams and making smart technical calls.
• A clear and analytical approach to problem-solving.
• English fluency.
• Willingness to work hybrid in Bremen.

What We Offer

• A real chance to shape the tech vision from an early stage.
• A hands-on, high-impact role with modern tools and emerging AI technologies.
• A collaborative culture where your voice matters.
• Competitive pay and the opportunity to benefit from the company’s success.