Joe Dukes


Joe is a Technical Recruiter who specializes in building Founding AI teams for innovative companies across the U.S.

With a strong focus on early-stage and high-growth businesses, Joe focuses on placing senior and founding-level talent into AI-driven start-ups and tech-forward companies.

Whether you're a founder with bold ambitions to scale or a business at the cutting edge of AI that needs top-tier talent to bring your vision to life, Joe is happy to help. 

'My background and priorities are building genuine relationships with both candidates and hiring teams to ensure a seamless and effective recruitment process on both sides. If you work in AI or Tech, whether you're exploring new opportunities or hiring your first or next AI expert, feel free to shoot me a message. Always open to connecting and growing my network.'

 

 

 

JOBS FROM JOE

New York, United States
Founding Engineer
Soda has partnered with a stealth-stage AI startup that’s redefining how hiring works, using real world, production ready AI agents to automate the most painful, overlooked workflows in frontline recruitment.Already revenue generating and backed by top tier investors, the founding team includes alumni from Tesla, Meta, Roblox and top AI start-ups! They’re now looking for an exceptional Founding AI Engineer to join them to build from the ground up.Location: NYC (5 days/week in-office, relocation supported)Salary: $160k–$210k EquityKey Responsibilities:Build and ship new agent capabilities, including voice workflows, scheduling, onboarding and reportingOwn your work end to end, from product definition to live deploymentCollaborate with the founding team and enterprise customers to solve real user problemsContribute across the stack, internal tools, embedded chatbots, dashboards and moreHelp shape technical strategy, system architecture and engineering cultureWhat We’re Looking For:2 - 5 years in full stack engineering rolesStrong with TypeScript, Node.js and ReactProduct focused mindset and ability to ship quickly and cleanlyStrong system design fundamentals and clean code practicesComfortable in high-speed, high ownership, early stage environmentsBonus Points For:Python experience (especially for AI/voice workflows)Experience with LLMs, agentic systems, or hiring/recruitment techPrior 0→1 start-up experience or fast-scaling product environmentsIf you're excited to build real AI agents, work directly with users and m
Joe DukesJoe Dukes
San Francisco, California, United States
Senior Python Software Engineer
Senior Softare Engineer – AI Voice & Chat PlatformSan Francisco (Onsite Preferred)$250k – $300k Base EquitySoda is partnered with an ambitious AI driven start-up that are building the AI layer for enterprise customer support. This is not an idea stage company, they’re live, growing fast and have real traction with high value contracts and global brand recognition.They’re now hiring a Founding Engineer to help shape the future of their core platform. If you’re a strong full stack engineer with a backend focus, excited by voice/chat AI and want to help architect systems used by millions, this could be a game changer.As a Founding Engineer, you'll:Build and scale AI powered chat and voice productsTake full ownership of features from concept to deploymentContribute across the stack (Python, React/Next.js), with opportunities to lead product linesInfluence technical architecture, infra, and long term product visionHelp shape a rapidly scaling product used across multiple enterprise sectorsIdeal Profile:7 years of hands on software engineering experienceStrong backend skills in Python (bonus for Django)Experience with cloud infrastructure (AWS or GCP)Start-up experience (0→1 or 1→10 preferred)Excellent communication and product ownership mindsetBachelor’s or higher from a top 40 U.S. universityBonus Experience:Experience building or scaling LLM based or AI driven productsFamiliarity with Kubernetes, Docker, or large scale infraPrior integration work with enterprise clientsWhy This Role?Join a real business with real revenue and a proven product already live in productionWork directly with elite founders and battle tested engineersTackle hard technical problems in AI, infra and product at scaleBe a founding team member with outsized ownership and equityHelp shape the future of AI in enterprise customer support in one of the hottest spaces right nowWork with clients ranging from fast growth tech to global platformsIf you’re excited by high-ownership roles, AI infrastructure and building at the edge of what’s possible, let’s talk.
Joe DukesJoe Dukes
San Francisco, California, United States
Full Stack Engineer
Full Stack Engineer – AI Voice & Chat PlatformSan Francisco (Onsite Preferred)$150k – $300k Base EquitySoda is partnered with an ambitious AI driven start-up that are building the AI layer for enterprise customer support. This is not an idea stage company, they’re live, growing fast and have real traction with high value contracts and global brand recognition.They’re now hiring a Founding Engineer to help shape the future of their core platform. If you’re a strong full stack engineer with a backend focus, excited by voice/chat AI and want to help architect systems used by millions, this could be a game changer.As a Founding Engineer, you'll:Build and scale AI powered chat and voice productsTake full ownership of features from concept to deploymentContribute across the stack (Python, React/Next.js), with opportunities to lead product linesInfluence technical architecture, infra, and long term product visionHelp shape a rapidly scaling product used across multiple enterprise sectorsIdeal Profile:3 years of hands on software engineering experienceStrong backend skills in Python (bonus for Django)Frontend experience with React and/or Next.jsExperience with cloud infrastructure (AWS or GCP)Start-up experience (0→1 or 1→10 preferred)Excellent communication and product ownership mindsetBachelor’s or higher from a top 40 U.S. universityBonus Experience:Experience building or scaling LLM based or AI driven productsFamiliarity with Kubernetes, Docker, or large scale infraPrior integration work with enterprise clientsWhy This Role?Join a real business with real revenue and a proven product already live in productionWork directly with elite founders and battle tested engineersTackle hard technical problems in AI, infra and product at scaleBe a founding team member with outsized ownership and equityHelp shape the future of AI in enterprise customer support in one of the hottest spaces right nowWork with clients ranging from fast growth tech to global platformsIf you’re excited by high-ownership roles, AI infrastructure and building at the edge of what’s possible, let’s talk.
Joe DukesJoe Dukes
San Francisco, California, United States
Forward Deployed Engineer
Forward Deployed Engineer - Real World AI DeploymentLocation: Onsite in San FranciscoCompensation: $150k - $300k EquitySoda is partnered with an exciting, high growth AI start-up that’s already powering millions of real world conversations for top tier enterprise clients. Backed by leading investors and built by a deeply technical founding team, this company is solving real problems with production grade agentic AI systems, not demos, not prototypes, but systems that ship.They’re now looking to hire a Forward Deployed Engineer to join their San Francisco HQ. This is a high impact, customer facing engineering role ideal for someone who loves building, thrives in fast paced environments and wants to work on AI that delivers in production.Why This Role Stands Out:Immediate ownership from day one – You’ll lead deployments with major enterprise clients, working directly with both technical and business stakeholders.Tangible impact – Your work goes straight into production, powering AI agents that automate meaningful workflows at scale.No red tape – Fast iterations, direct customer feedback and a team that values velocity and execution over process for process’s sake.Elite team – You’ll work alongside top engineers and founders with deep expertise in AI, infrastructure and systems engineering.What You’ll Be Doing:Lead customer engagements end to end – From discovery to delivery, you’ll own the technical relationship and help deploy complex AI systems into enterprise environments.Build intelligent systems – Write Python backend services, manage large-scale data, integrate with third party systems, and deploy via modern cloud infrastructure.Troubleshoot and optimize live systems – Tune models, set up guardrails, debug real time issues, and ensure reliable, high quality outputs.Influence the product – Capture customer needs, prototype new functionality, and contribute directly to the company’s roadmap.What They're Looking For:Strong software engineering skills, Python and scalable backend systemsExcellent communication skills and a desire to work directly with customersA background in CS or engineering, ideally from a top schoolA product mindset and a bias toward shippingStart-up energy, you move fast, wear multiple hats and care deeply about resultsBonus: Experience with LLMs, agentic workflows, or enterprise deploymentsWhat You’ll Get:Competitive total compensation ($150k – $300k) meaningful equityFull health, dental, and vision coverageDaily meals, snacks, and unlimited coffeeThe chance to ship cutting-edge AI systems into production environmentsA seat at the table with a world-class team building the future of applied AIInterview Process:15-min intro call1 hour live coding exerciseIn office trial day, meet the team, pair program and see how you collaborateIf you’re a high agency engineer who wants to deploy real AI in the real world, then please apply as this is an outstanding opportunity that I'd love to discuss with you.
Joe DukesJoe Dukes
San Francisco, California, United States
Senior Software Engineer
Senior Software Engineer – AI Applications Boston or San Francisco PreferredCompetitive Salary Equity A Series A funded AI startup is transforming the insurance industry with cutting-edge technology. Backed by top investors, the company is building scalable AI-driven applications powered by foundational LLMs and advanced data systems. They’re now hiring a Senior Software Engineer to help architect and build the next generation of their AI platform. You’ll join a collaborative, high-caliber engineering team that values curiosity, learning, and technical excellence and you’ll play a key role in shaping products used across a multi-billion-dollar market. What You’ll Do:Design, develop, and maintain scalable, high-performance AI-powered applicationsCollaborate with data scientists, product managers, and engineers to turn ideas into production systemsWrite clean, efficient, and well-documented code across Python, Node.js, React, and TypeScriptContribute to architecture decisions that shape the future of the AI platformTroubleshoot, debug, and resolve issues across the stack, including participation in on-call rotationsChampion engineering best practices through code reviews, documentation, and knowledge sharingHelp advance strategic technical initiatives, gaining cross-team buy-in and alignmentIdeal Profile5 years building production-grade software in PythonStrong experience with FastAPI, Django, asyncio, and asynchronous high-throughput systemsFamiliarity with Node.js, React, TypeScript, or ExpressProficient in SQL with experience using distributed systems like RabbitMQ, SNS, SQSCloud experience with AWS, GCP, or Azure, plus exposure to DevOps practicesComfortable navigating ambiguity and making pragmatic trade-offs without sacrificing long-term qualityThrive in collaborative, distributed teams and experienced working asynchronouslyForward-looking mindset, eager to learn, adapt, and explore emerging technologiesBonus ExperienceHands-on work with LLMs and optimization techniquesExperience in regulated industries (e.g., insurance, fintech, healthcare)Background in high-growth, fast-paced startupsWhy This Role?Competitive salary with meaningful equityFlexible PTO and 401(k) planComprehensive health, dental, and vision coverageFlexible work environment (Boston or SF preferred, U.S. remote possible)Join a mission-driven team building transformative AI products at scaleIf you want to shape the future of AI in a real-world, high-impact industry—and work alongside a team of curious, ambitious engineers—this is the opportunity for you.
Joe DukesJoe Dukes
San Francisco, California, United States
Forward Deployed Engineer
AI Agent Engineer – Forward Deployed Boston or San Francisco (Hybrid, 2 days onsite) $180k – $220k Base Equity A fast-growing Series A AI startup is reimagining a massive, legacy industry with advanced AI technology. Backed by leading investors, they’re already working with enterprise clients to deploy real-world solutions that deliver measurable value. They’re now hiring an AI Forward Deployed Engineer to work at the intersection of customers and product. In this role, you’ll partner closely with sales, product and engineering teams to ensure smooth deployment, seamless integrations, and lasting customer success. What You’ll Do:Collaborate with sales to design tailored AI solutions for enterprise clientsServe as the technical expert in post-sales cycles with demos, presentations, and deep technical supportAssess customer systems and workflows, identifying integration points for AI productsDeliver prototypes and custom configurations to prove value quicklyGuide customers through implementation and troubleshootingAct as a critical feedback loop to product and engineering, shaping future featuresCreate and maintain technical documentation, best practices, and integration guidesIdeal Profile:5 years in solutions engineering, technical consulting, or similar roles (AI/tech sector preferred)Bachelor’s in Computer Science, Engineering, or related fieldProficiency with Python, Java, or similar languages plus APIs, integrations, and cloud platformsStrong technical background in software development and system integrationExcellent communication skills, able to explain complex concepts to any audienceProven ability to manage multiple enterprise engagements under tight deadlinesExtreme ownership mindset with customer obsessionBonus ExperienceFamiliarity with AI/ML, LLMs, or data analytics in enterprise environmentsBackground in insurance tech or financial servicesStartup or high-growth company experienceCloud certifications (AWS, GCP, Azure)Why This Role?Competitive salary meaningful equityFlexible PTO and 401(k) planComprehensive health, dental, and vision benefitsHybrid work model with flexibilityJoin a collaborative team building industry-changing AI solutionsShape the deployment strategy at the frontlines with enterprise clientsIf you thrive on customer-facing technical challenges, want high ownership, and are excited to deploy AI systems that matter, this role is for you.
Joe DukesJoe Dukes
New York, United States
Founding Engineer
Soda has partnered with a stealth-stage AI startup that’s redefining how hiring works, using real world, production ready AI agents to automate the most painful, overlooked workflows in frontline recruitment.Already revenue generating and backed by top tier investors, the founding team includes alumni from Tesla, Meta, Roblox and top AI start-ups! They’re now looking for an exceptional Founding AI Engineer to join them to build from the ground up.Location: NYC (5 days/week in-office, relocation supported)Salary: $160k–$210k EquityKey Responsibilities:Build and ship new agent capabilities, including voice workflows, scheduling, onboarding and reportingOwn your work end to end, from product definition to live deploymentCollaborate with the founding team and enterprise customers to solve real user problemsContribute across the stack, internal tools, embedded chatbots, dashboards and moreHelp shape technical strategy, system architecture and engineering cultureWhat We’re Looking For:2 - 5 years in full stack engineering rolesStrong with TypeScript, Node.js and ReactProduct focused mindset and ability to ship quickly and cleanlyStrong system design fundamentals and clean code practicesComfortable in high-speed, high ownership, early stage environmentsBonus Points For:Python experience (especially for AI/voice workflows)Experience with LLMs, agentic systems, or hiring/recruitment techPrior 0→1 start-up experience or fast-scaling product environmentsIf you're excited to build real AI agents, work directly with users and m
Joe DukesJoe Dukes
San Francisco, California, United States
Founding Engineer
We’re working with one of the fastest-growing teams in the Voice AI space, a seed-stage startup transforming how financial services engage customers in high-stakes, mission critical workflows. Already trusted by 6 of the top 15 U.S. mortgage banks, they’ve hit $2M ARR in just 8 months (on track for $3M) and are scaling at 43% month over month since their seed raise last November. With a Series A planned for early 2026, this is a rare opportunity to join a company just before it enters hypergrowth. With a lean team of engineers from Google, Meta, Apple and Stanford, they’re building AI systems that outperform humans in industries like mortgage, insurance and small business lending. Now, they’re looking for two exceptional Founding Engineers to own backend systems, drive product heavy initiatives and shape the technical foundation of a category-defining company. Location: San Francisco (4 days in-office, Market Street near Montgomery BART) Salary: Up to $270,000 Equity (0.2–1%) Key Responsibilities:Own Product at Scale: Scope, design, and ship backend systems tightly aligned with customer and product needs.Hands-On Engineering: Contribute directly to core backend services while driving product-focused design.Technical Leadership: Conduct code reviews, mentor peers, and set engineering quality standards.Product Collaboration: Partner with product owners and customers to translate requirements into scalable technical solutions.Founding-Level Impact: Take on initiatives that relieve bottlenecks from the CTO and define long-term product direction.What We’re Looking For:5 years backend engineering experience (5–15 typical).Depth across Python, Go, Java, C , etc. Not just JavaScript/TypeScript.Track record of scaling backend systems in production.Strong product sense and experience in early-stage startups (ideally first 1–6 engineers).Excellent communication skills: able to bridge product and engineering.Bonus Points For:FinTech, API-heavy, or backend-intensive product experience.Experience building agent-based systems.Prior 0→1 startup success.Python backend frameworks (FastAPI, Django).Why Join?World-class team: ex-FAANG engineers, top-tier universities, repeat founders.Hypergrowth: 43% MoM, millions in ARR.Timing: Join at seed-stage equity valuation, just before Series A.Cutting-edge tech: Voice AI that outperforms humans in mission-critical workflows.High ownership: Founding-level influence across product and engineering.This is a chance to step in at a pivotal moment, with proven product-market fit, massive customer demand, and the capital to scale. You’ll be part of a small, elite team solving some of the hardest problems in applied AI, while shaping both the product and the company’s future.
Joe DukesJoe Dukes