AI Applied Research Lead

Company: Happyrobot Inc.
Location: San Francisco
Posted on: June 2, 2025

Job Description:

About HappyrobotHappyRobot is a platform to build and deploy AI workers that automate communication.Our AI workers connect to any system or data source to handle phone calls, email, messages---We target the logistics industry which relies heavily on communication to book, check on, & pay for freight. Primarily working with freight brokers, 3PLs, freight forwarders, shippers, warehouses, & other supply chain enterprises and tech startups.We raised a Series A round from a16z and YC and we're growing very fast, on track to hit double digit ARR by June this year.We're looking for rockstars with a relentless drive, unstoppable energy, and a true passion for building something great-ready to embrace the challenge, push limits, and thrive in a fast-paced, high-intensity environment, working from 9 to 9, six days a week.About the RoleWe're looking for an AI Applied Research Lead to drive innovation and lead the development of cutting-edge voice AI systems. You'll work at the intersection of research and production, shaping the future of our AI capabilities while ensuring business impact.What You'll Do

• Lead applied research initiatives to improve NLU, speech synthesis, and voice interaction models
• Evaluate and fine-tune LLMs, ASR, and TTS systems for high-performance production use
• Manage and mentor a team of applied researchers and ML engineers
• Collaborate closely with engineering to bring models into real-time, production-grade systems
• Identify research trends and emerging technologies to inform product roadmap
• Drive experimentation frameworks, performance evaluation, and data strategy
• Foster a culture of innovation, speed, and scientific rigorWhat We're Looking For
  • PhD or MS in Machine Learning, NLP, Speech Processing, or a related field
  • 5+ years of experience in applied research roles, including 2+ years managing or mentoring technical teams
  • Deep knowledge of transformer-based architectures and experience with LLMs
  • Strong programming skills in Python and experience with ML libraries (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow, Hugging Face)
  • Demonstrated ability to lead projects from research to production
  • Excellent communication skills and a collaborative leadership styleWhy join us?
    • Opportunity to work at a high-growth AI startup, backed by top investors.
    • Fast Growth - Backed by a16z and YC, on track for double-digit ARR.
    • Ownership & Autonomy - Take full ownership of projects and ship fast.
    • Top-Tier Compensation - Competitive salary + equity in a high-growth startup.
    • Comprehensive Benefits - Healthcare, dental, vision coverage.
    • Work With the Best - Join a world-class team of engineers and buildersThe personal data provided in your application and during the selection process will be processed by Happyrobot, Inc., acting as Data Controller.By sending us your CV, you consent to the processing of your personal data for the purpose of evaluating and selecting you as a candidate for the position. Your personal data will be treated confidentially and will only be used for the recruitment process of the selected job offer.In relation to the period of conservation of your personal data, these will be eliminated after three months of inactivity in compliance with the GDPR and legislation on the protection of personal data.If you wish to exercise your rights of access, rectification, deletion, portability or opposition in relation to your personal data, you can do so through security@happyrobot.ai subject to the GDPR.For more information, visit By submitting your request, you confirm that you have read and understood this clause and that you agree to the processing of your personal data as described.
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Keywords: Happyrobot Inc., Rohnert Park , AI Applied Research Lead, Professions , San Francisco, California