Applied AI Engineer – Generative AI at Kodiak

San Francisco, California, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

29 May, 26

Salary

250000.0

Posted On

28 Feb, 26

Experience

2 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Generative Models, Diffusion Models, Autoregressive Learning, Variational Techniques, Python, PyTorch, TensorFlow, Uncertainty Modeling, Self-Supervised Learning, AI Robustness, Decision-Making Enhancement, Scalable AI, Interpretable AI

Industry

Software Development

Description

Kodiak Robotics, Inc. was founded in 2018 and has become a leader in autonomous ground transportation committed to a safer and more efficient future for all. The company has developed an artificial intelligence (AI) powered technology stack purpose-built for commercial trucking and the public sector. The company delivers freight daily for its customers across the southern United States using its autonomous technology. In 2024, Kodiak became the first known company to publicly announce delivering a driverless semi-truck to a customer. Kodiak is also leveraging its commercial self-driving software to develop, test and deploy autonomous capabilities for the U.S. Department of Defense. Kodiak is redefining what AI can do in autonomy, and generative models play a critical role in making AI more adaptive, predictive, and resilient. We are looking for engineers to develop AI that anticipates uncertainty, enhances decision-making, and refines its own understanding of the world. This role is open to all levels—from those eager to contribute to cutting-edge research to experts driving innovation at scale. In this role, you will: Develop generative models that enhance adaptability and improve AI robustness Research and implement diffusion-based, autoregressive, and variational techniques for real-world AI applications Apply generative methods to anticipate challenges and reinforce decision-making Build self-improving AI pipelines that continuously refine model understanding Optimize models for efficient, scalable, and interpretable AI decision-making What you’ll bring: BS, MS, or PhD in AI, Computer Science, or a related field, or at least 2-3 years of industry experience Experience with diffusion models, autoregressive learning, or generative AI methods Proficiency in Python and deep learning frameworks like PyTorch or TensorFlow Strong understanding of uncertainty modeling and self-supervised learning Passion for building AI that continuously adapts and learns. What we offer: Competitive compensation package including equity and annual bonuses Excellent Medical, Dental, and Vision plans through Kaiser Permanente, Cigna, and MetLife (including a medical plan with infertility benefits) MetLife Legal Services, Identity & Fraud Protection, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Accident Insurance, & Critical Illness Insurance Flexible PTO, 10 paid holidays, and generous parental leave policies Our office is centrally located in Mountain View, CA Office perks: dog-friendly, free catered lunch, a fully stocked kitchen, and free EV charging Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability, Life Insurance Wellbeing Benefits - Headspace through Cigna, Calm through Kaiser, One Medical, Gympass, Spring Health through Cigna, Rula (mental health navigation) Fidelity 401(k) Commuter, FSA, Dependent Care FSA, HSA Various incentive programs (referral bonuses, patent bonuses, etc.) The pay range listed below reflects the base salary in our SF/Silicon Valley location, across several internal levels. Actual starting pay will be based on job-related factors including: work location, experience, relevant training, education, skill level and performance during interview. Total compensation at Kodiak includes base pay, equity, bonus and a competitive benefits package California Pay Range $150,000—$250,000 USD At Kodiak, we strive to build a diverse community working towards our common company goals in a safe and collaborative environment where harassment of any kind is strictly prohibited. Kodiak is committed to equal opportunity employment regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law. In alignment with its business operations, Kodiak adheres to all relevant statutes, regulations, and administrative prerequisites. Accordingly, roles that carry more sensitive requirements may be limited to candidates that can satisfy additional scrutiny and eligibility for such positions may hinge on verification of a candidate’s residence, U.S. person status, and/or citizenship status. Should the position require, and Kodiak determines that a candidate’s residence, U.S. person status, and/or citizenship status necessitate an export license, bar the candidate from the position, or otherwise fall under national security-related restrictions, Kodiak will consider the candidate for alternative positions unaffected by such restrictions, under terms and conditions set forth at Kodiak’s sole discretion, or, as an alternative, opt not to proceed with the candidate’s application. If applicable, Kodiak may provide visa sponsorship for eligible candidates. We use a third-party AI tool (Endorsed) to assist in the initial screening of applications. As part of the evaluation process, we provide Endorsed with job requirements and candidate-submitted applications. Final hiring decisions are made by our human recruitment team, and no automated system makes the ultimate decision regarding hiring. Certain features of the platform may qualify it as an Automated Employment Decision Tool (AEDT) under applicable regulations. We began using Endorsed on January 1, 2026. You can review the independent bias audit report covering our use of Endorsed [here](https://endorsed.com/local-law-144). By submitting your application, you acknowledge that your application may be processed by AI systems as part of the screening and selection process. If you have any questions or would like to request a separate review of your application, please contact careers@kodiak.ai with "Separate Review Request" in the email subject line.

Responsibilities

Engineers will develop generative models to enhance AI adaptability and robustness, focusing on research and implementation of diffusion-based, autoregressive, and variational techniques for real-world applications. Responsibilities also include building self-improving AI pipelines and optimizing models for efficient, scalable, and interpretable decision-making.