Lead AI Engineer

Lead AI Engineer | Fintech | Manchester (Hybrid)

Based in Greater Manchester, this fintech is entering a strong growth phase in 2025 following several key client wins and increased platform adoption. As part of this next stage, they are looking to hire a Lead AI Engineer to take ownership of AI-driven systems at the core of their product.

This is a senior, hands‑on role with real influence. You will help shape how AI is designed, built, and deployed across a production platform used in a regulated, high‑impact environment.

The Lead AI Engineer will sit at the intersection of AI, backend engineering, and technical leadership. You will work closely with the CTO, founders, and product leadership, remaining close to the code while setting technical direction.

• Lead the design and delivery of AI and machine learning services in production
• Build and maintain backend services using Python and Type Script
• Own model deployment, performance, monitoring, and reliability
• Translate complex business and product requirements into scalable technical solutions
• Set engineering standards and take a mentoring role to current and new hires
• Contribute to wider platform and cloud architecture decisions

• Strong commercial experience building AI or ML systems used in production
• Expert Python skills with solid backend engineering fundamentals
• Strong experience with Type Script in modern backend or full‑stack environments
• Experience deploying and operating ML models in live systems
• Comfortable working in regulated or high‑reliability environments such as fintech

• Experience with LLMs, NLP, or applied AI systems
• Exposure to MLOps, observability, or model monitoring tooling
• Previous experience in a technical lead or senior individual contributor role

• Stage 1: Initial remote conversation with the CTO
• Stage 2: Onsite technical interview, including a coding or practical exercise
• Stage 3: Onsite meeting with the founders

This is a great opportunity for a senior AI‑focused engineer who wants real ownership, close collaboration with leadership, and the chance to build meaningful AI systems during a period of genuine growth.

• Mid‑Senior level

• Part‑time

• Information Technology and Engineering

• Financial Services, Software Development, and IT System Custom Software Development